By Flinster Austin
Published on 2024-03-20 03:36:08
The Abuja City Half Marathon, set to take place on April 20 in the Federal Capital Territory, is attracting some of the world’s best runners. With Premium Trust Bank as the title sponsor, the race is gaining recognition as one of the premier events in the international half marathon circuit. Organized by Nilayo Sports Management, the event is aiming to achieve a bronze label status by the international half marathon body.
Bukola Olopade, Managing Director of Nilayo Sports Management, highlighted the high standard achieved in the previous edition of the race, making it a strong contender for the prestigious bronze label. He emphasized the rigorous preparations underway for this year’s event and expressed confidence in the potential for the Abuja City Half Marathon to earn international acclaim within just two editions.
Yusuf Ali, the technical director of the Abuja City Half Marathon and Chairman of Edo State Sports Commission, outlined the key elements necessary to meet the criteria for a bronze label. With elite athletes from around the globe expected to participate, the inclusion of timing chips, personalized branding for each runner, spy cameras for security, and stringent time requirements will be crucial in securing the prestigious label for the race.
Emmanuel Efe Emefienim, Managing Director of Premium Trust Bank, underlined the bank’s commitment to promoting sports development in Nigeria. By supporting events like the Abuja City Half Marathon, PTB aims to empower athletes and contribute to the growth of sports in the country. Emefienim emphasized the bank’s dedication to uplifting the youth and highlighted their past initiatives, including endorsements of athletes like Tobi Amusan and Ese Brume.
Describing the partnership between Premium Trust Bank and Nilayo Sports as a marathon, Emefienim emphasized the long-term commitment of both entities to supporting sports initiatives and fostering talent development in Nigeria. He praised the collaboration as a positive step towards achieving lasting impact in the sporting community.
As preparations for the Abuja City Half Marathon continue, the organizers, sponsors, and participants are all looking forward to a successful and memorable event. With elite runners expected to showcase their skills on the streets of the capital city, the race promises to be a thrilling display of athleticism and sportsmanship. With the support of sponsors like Premium Trust Bank and the dedication of organizers like Nilayo Sports Management, the Abuja City Half Marathon is poised to make a lasting impact on the Nigerian sporting landscape.
