Ikogosi Marathon 2025 will host 5000 runners, offering prizes up to ₦10m and promoting tourism at Ekiti’s iconic warm spring

Ikogosi Marathon 2025 is gearing up to become one of Nigeria’s most thrilling long-distance races, with over 5,000 runners expected to compete in the second edition of the event on November 8 at the picturesque Ikogosi Warm Spring in Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ekiti State.

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The event, organized by the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative in partnership with the Ekiti State Government, features a new 17.5km race, an upgrade from the 10km debut race in 2023, which drew more than 2,000 participants.

According to Race Consultant Femi Abegunde, the Ikogosi Marathon 2025 is more than just a race.

“It is a platform for tourism, health, fitness, and community development,” he stated during a press briefing in Ado-Ekiti.

The marathon route winds through the scenic landscape surrounding Ikogosi Warm Spring, a rare natural phenomenon where warm and cold springs flow side-by-side without mixing—a wonder that draws tourists from within and outside Nigeria.

Abegunde revealed that the new edition introduces higher stakes with mouth-watering prizes for both elite and indigenous runners:

Elite Category (Male and Female)

•  1st Prize: ₦2 million each
•  2nd Prize: ₦1.5 million each
•  3rd Prize: ₦1 million each

Indigenous Category (Ekiti-born Runners)

•  1st Prize: ₦1.5 million
•  2nd Prize: ₦1 million
•  3rd Prize: ₦500,000
•  4th to 10th: Consolation prizes available

These prizes, Abegunde said, are aimed at encouraging athletic excellence and local participation, while also stimulating the local economy through increased tourism and business activity.

Abegunde gave assurances of adequate security and medical support throughout the race, noting that the event is being planned to international standards.

Permanent Secretary of the Ekiti State Ministry of Youth Development, Mrs. Sola-Femi Adeluyi, highlighted the race as a vital tool in youth empowerment:

“It will help our youth to cultivate resilience, leadership, and boost economic activities.”

Governor Biodun Oyebanji, represented by his Technical Adviser on Sports, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, praised the marathon as a “flagship project” that aligns with the state’s long-term goals:

“This initiative supports our vision of making Ekiti Nigeria’s top sports-tourism destination.”

The government’s ongoing partnership with the race organizers reflects a strong commitment to combining sports development, tourism promotion, and youth empowerment.

A true natural marvel, Ikogosi Warm Spring is globally recognized for its parallel flow of warm and cold water from the same source, symbolizing Ekiti’s rich natural heritage.
The site is also home to a growing resort destination, featuring facilities for wellness, relaxation, and recreation.

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As preparations intensify for Ikogosi Marathon 2025, the event promises to elevate Ekiti State’s global tourism profile, attract new visitors, and drive community-based economic growth.