Nigeria’s foremost sports company, Nilayo Sports Management Limited (NSML), has announced the second edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon, scheduled to take place on Saturday, December 6, 2025, in Abuja, the nation’s capital city.
The event’s theme, “Steady Strides,” embodies the measured rhythm and determined pace that define world-class long-distance running, reflecting the steady progress and ambitious vision shaping the marathon’s evolution into a global platinum-labelled event.
In a groundbreaking achievement for Nigerian sports, the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon has been officially awarded the prestigious World Athletics Label for its second edition, a distinction achieved in record time. This remarkable feat makes it the first marathon globally to earn the label so swiftly, highlighting the organizational excellence of NSML and the dynamic rise of PremiumTrust Bank, currently celebrated as Nigeria’s fastest-growing commercial bank.
The 2025 edition is expected to draw elite international athletes, top local runners, and marathon enthusiasts from around the world, alongside officials from World Athletics who will oversee the competition. The event promises to be a spectacular celebration of endurance, athleticism, and community spirit, further solidifying Abuja’s status on the global racing calendar.
Speaking on the announcement, Yetunde Olopade, Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management Limited, expressed excitement about the unique partnership with PremiumTrust Bank. “This second edition is fundamentally unique because it represents the first-ever true super-partnership on such a dynamic sports property in our nation and arguably, globally,” Olopade said. “PremiumTrust Bank is not just a sponsor but the sole partner anchoring the establishment, organization, and consolidation of a global marathon in Nigeria’s capital city. We are proud and grateful for the bank’s visionary leadership, which not only recognized the immense potential of the first edition but is now single-handedly driving the race toward international acclaim.”
Dr. Emmanuel Efe Emefienim, Managing Director of PremiumTrust Bank, emphasized the shared values underpinning the partnership. “PremiumTrust Bank is built on the philosophy of rapid, impactful, and sustainable growth, and the theme of this year’s marathon perfectly reflects our operational ethos,” Emefienim said. “Attaining World Athletics Label status in just the second year validates that our investment is yielding world-class outcomes. We are deeply proud to be the sole partner building this monumental legacy, reinforcing our commitment to sports development, community wellbeing, excellence, and platforms where champions are made.”
Registration for participants is currently open, promising another thrilling marathon spectacle on December 6, 2025.
