Lagos declares readiness for International Gov. Ambode Marathon

Thirty-three years after the last edition, the government of Lagos State on Tuesday said it has concluded plans to ensure a hitch-free staging of the February 6 International Marathon. The Lagos Marathon is expected to be declared open by the state governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, while the President of International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF), Lord Sebastian Coe, with his other counterparts from over six countries are expected to grace the event.

In a joint press briefing by the Ministry of Information and Strategy and the State Sports Commission at the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa, the government assured that everything needed to ensure a successful tournament has been put in place. Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Steve Ayorinde, said that out of over 100, 000 forms made available; 12, 000 athletes have already confirmed participation, adding that 60 international participants in the male category have been confirmed, while a total of 20, 000 participants are expected to register.

He also said that 18 out of 20 gold class marathoners in the world have confirmed their participation in the male category, while six gold marathoners in the female category have also confirmed participation.