The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission has announced a special prize for West African runners at the 2025 ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon, aimed at boosting regional participation and recognising local talent.
At a press conference on Thursday, ECOWAS Director of Youth and Sports, Amb. Francis Njoaguani, who also serves as Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee, revealed that the first West African finisher will earn $1,000, while the second to fifth-place runners will receive $500, $400, $250, and $200, respectively.
ECOWAS has set an ambitious target of securing World Athletics Gold Label status for the marathon within the next four years, aiming to establish it as one of the top road races globally.
Biggest prize pool for African half marathon
The ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon currently stands as Africa’s most lucrative half marathon, with winners of the 21km race taking home $10,000. Second and third-place finishers will receive $5,000 and $4,000, with prize money extending to the top 10 finishers, where the 10th-place runner will earn $1,000.
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In the 5km category, the winner will pocket $1,000, while runners finishing second to fifth will receive $300, $250, $150, and $100, respectively.
2025 edition to celebrate ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary
The 2025 edition coincides with ECOWAS’ 50th anniversary and is expected to attract over 5,000 runners from across the world. ECOWAS is fully sponsoring runners from all member states, ensuring participation from across the region. Interest has also grown beyond Africa, with runners from the United States, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Switzerland among those expected to compete.
The race routes have been slightly adjusted for this edition. The 21km race will start and finish at the ECOWAS Commission headquarters, while the 5km race will begin at Independence Drive by Sahad Stores and end at the ECOWAS Commission.
Beyond competition, the marathon continues to serve as a platform for regional unity, bringing athletes together to celebrate fitness, culture, and community.
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