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From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Over 10,000 runners and officials from African countries will storm Rivers State for the Port Harcourt International Marathon.
The event, which has been scheduled for November 14, 2026, is captioned The Green Race, to showcase the landscape of Port Harcourt and its environs to the world.
Briefing journalists on the preparedness of the organisers of the event, the convener, Goodluck Azunwena, disclosed that notable African runners, particularly from East Africa, would participate in the marathon.
He noted that in the last decade, Rivers has pursued a simple but ambitious mission, adding that the city is transitioning from mere Port Harcourt Marathon to an International event.
Azunwena said: “For 10 years, Port Harcourt to the World has pursued a simple, but ambitious mission: to tell a different story about our city. While our voice on social media grew quiet, our work never stopped.
“Behind the scenes, we have collaborated, supported, advised, and championed initiatives that celebrate the resilience, creativity, culture, enterprise and limitless
potential of Port Harcourt.
“Many of the moments that have made our city shine over the past decade have carried our fingerprints, even when our name was not in the spotlight.”
The convener disclosed that Rivers State has always believed that true impact is measured not by “how loudly you speak, but by the legacy you help build.
“Every partnership formed, every event supported, every young person empowered, and every positive story shared about Port Harcourt has been a step toward a greater vision; a city that inspires pride in its people and earns the admiration of the world.”
Azunwena added that the marathon would be a world-class event driven by a renewed energy and a bigger global visibility.
He continued: “This has been our commitment since day one, and 10 years later, that commitment remains stronger than ever. As we celebrate a decade of purpose, we are proud to officially reopen this chapter of our journey, driven by renewed energy and an even bigger vision, beginning with the Port Harcourt International Marathon, a world-class event that represents far more
than a race. It is a platform for unity, tourism, economic growth, healthy living, youth
empowerment, and global visibility.
“Through it, we invite the world to experience the true spirit of Port Harcourt. The next decade will be bolder, more visible, and more impactful.”
Azunwena added that the state will continue to champion initiatives that transform perceptions, create opportunities and unite people around a shared belief, that, Port Harcourt deserves its place among the world’s great cities.
