By Musa Muhammad Kutama, Calabar
Plateau State athletes dominated the male and female categories of the 2026 Calabar Marathon, held in Calabar at the weekend.
In the 21.1-kilometre half marathon, Iliya Raymond, Badung Emmanuel Davou and Iliya Emmanuel Dong claimed first, second and third positions, respectively, in the male category.
Announcing the results at the Awards and Networking Ceremony held at Marina Resort, Calabar, Dr. Paul Ibiala, a national officer of the Nigerian Association of Athletics Technical Officials (NAATO), said Iliya Raymond clinched the top prize with an impressive time of one hour, six minutes and 31 seconds (1:06:31).
His kinsman, Badung Emmanuel Davou, followed closely in second place with 1:07:28, while Iliya Emmanuel Dong completed the Plateau sweep in third position with 1:09:01.
The NAATO representative said:“Look at their legs. And let me give you the trick, you know how they do it? They collaborate.
As one is in front, he is urging the other, ‘come, come, come’ and they move like that. That is why you see them taking the first three positions. Plateau State has swept the podium in the male category.”
In the female category, Bulus Mary of Plateau State emerged as champion, while Chigozirim Esther of Imo State and Charity Agofure of Delta State came second and third, respectively.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Cross River State Tourism Bureau, Mr. John Atsu, welcomed guests, athletes and sponsors, describing the marathon as more than just a race.
“Today will not just be about prizes. Today is a celebration. Today is about running together, testing our endurance and refusing to give up,” he said.
Atsu noted that this year’s theme, “Run for Conscience Against Poverty,” was a reminder that the fight against poverty requires consistent and collective effort.
He commended the Cross River State Government for its commitment and appreciated sponsors, including MTN, NNPC/NPL, Zenith Bank, Hit FM and others, for ensuring the success of the event.
Winners in both the male and female categories received ₦1.2 million, ₦700,000 and ₦400,000 for first, second and third positions, respectively, in addition to 24 consolation prizes of ₦50,000 each for other top finishers.
The indigenous category was also contested.
In the female race, Angel Nelson from Yakurr Local Government Area came first, while twins Favour and Faith Ani from Abi Local Government Area came second and third, respectively.
In the male indigenous category, Samuel Okon from Bakassi Local Government Area emerged first, Miracle Ashama from Obudu Local Government Area came second, while Ekerikan John from Obanliku Local Government Area took third position.
The indigenous category winners received ₦500,000, ₦300,000 and ₦200,000 for first, second and third positions, respectively, alongside 24 consolation prizes of ₦50,000 each for runners who finished within the top 15, as a morale booster.
