Cross River State Tourism Bureau has announced that winners of the 2026 Calabar Marathon will receive cash prizes of up to N1.2 million.
Managing Director of the bureau, John Atsu, made the announcement during a press briefing in Calabar ahead of the fourth edition of the event.
He said this year’s marathon is themed _“Run for Conscience Against Poverty”_ to raise awareness about poverty and encourage responsible use of available resources.
Atsu explained that the state plans to develop the Calabar Marathon into a world-class sporting event that will also help discover and nurture young talents.
Project Manager of the marathon, Charles Ada, said the first-place winners in the national and international male and female categories will each receive N1.2 million, while second-place winners will get N700,000 and third-place winners N400,000.
He added that indigenous Cross River athletes will also compete for special prizes, with winners receiving N500,000, runners-up N300,000, and third-place finishers N200,000.
Ada said the special category was introduced to encourage local athletes after competitors from other states dominated previous editions.
He revealed that the event will feature a 21.1-kilometre professional race, a 10-kilometre fun run, and a five-kilometre charity and fitness walk.
According to him, the race will start and end at the Marina Leisure Resort, with the first 28 finishers receiving N50,000 each as transport support.
Cross River Commissioner for Tourism, Obi Ayuk, praised the organisers for sustaining the marathon and strengthening tourism through sports.
The Nigeria Police, athletics officials, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation and other stakeholders pledged security, medical support and technical assistance for the event.
Organisers expressed confidence that the marathon will attract athletes, fitness enthusiasts and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond while boosting tourism and youth development in Cross River State.
