Our Story

Event
Overview

The Ikogosi Marathon is a road race held annually in Ekiti State, Nigeria, connecting the historic town of Ilawe-Ekiti to the Ikogosi Warm Springs — one of West Africa’s most celebrated natural landmarks. What began as a community running initiative has developed into a flagship sporting and tourism event for Ekiti State, attracting elite athletes, recreational runners, and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

The Ikogosi Distinction

Most marathons conclude at a stadium or a city square. The Ikogosi Marathon finishes at a site where two rivers — one warm, one cold — converge and flow side by side without mixing, a natural phenomenon found in almost no other place on earth. The race was conceived to bring this landmark, and the communities surrounding it, to a national and international audience.

History of the Event

The Ikogosi Marathon began as a bold idea and has, since its maiden edition, grown from a local sporting initiative into one of Ekiti State’s signature annual events. The platform commenced in 2014 as a 5 km community road race, running from Ilawe Roundabout to Erinjiyan, Ekiti State. The inaugural edition recorded 241 actual participants, comprising 176 male and 65 female runners, driven by strong youth adoption and community mobilisation. The race was fully funded and delivered by the Ikogosi Marathon Initiative, establishing early ownership, governance control, and financial commitment. The first edition featured a 10KM race starting at Aramoko, Ekiti, passing through Erijinyan, Ekiti and finishing at the Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, where runners, government officials, and residents were welcomed with music and entertainment.

Vision

To build a healthier, more resilient, and united society by inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to embrace a can-do attitude, pursue excellence, and cultivate the determination to go the distance in every aspect of life.

Mission

To open up Ekiti State to prospective investors and to make Ekiti the number one tourist destination state in Nigeria. Also, organizing an inclusive world-class marathon that promotes healthy living challenges individuals to develop strength, stamina, courage, and perseverance, and brings communities together through sport, tourism, and a shared commitment to positive social impact.

Our Core Values

Resilience

The determination to overcome challenges and keep moving forward despite obstacles.

Excellence

Striving for the highest standards in performance, organization, and participant experience.

Community

Bringing people together across backgrounds to celebrate health, unity, and shared achievement.

Courage

Encouraging individuals to step beyond their comfort zones and embrace new challenges.

Wellness

Promoting healthy lifestyles through running, fitness, and overall well-being.

Integrity

Upholding fairness, honesty, respect, and sportsmanship in every aspect of the marathon.

Strategic Objectives

01

Attract Investors

To open up Ekiti State to prospective investors
02

Promote Tourism

Position Ekiti State as a leading tourism destination by showcasing its natural attractions, culture, and hospitality.
03

Promote Healthy Living

Encourage people of all ages and fitness levels to adopt active, healthier lifestyles through long-distance running and regular physical activity.
04

Build Character and Resilience

Inspire participants to develop courage, discipline, perseverance, endurance, and a positive can-do attitude that extends beyond race day.
05

Foster Community

Bring together runners, volunteers, spectators, organizations, and communities in a shared celebration of sportsmanship and inclusion.
06

Discover and Support Athletic Talent

Provide a platform for elite and recreational athletes to compete, develop, and gain recognition.
07

Stimulate Local Economic Growth

Support local businesses, hospitality providers, transport services, and tourism enterprises through increased visitor participation.
08

Deliver a Safe and Memorable Race Experience

Maintain high standards of organization, safety, fairness, and participant satisfaction at every edition.
09

Inspire Participation for All

Create an inclusive event where people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities can take part as runners, volunteers, partners, or supporters.