As Lagos gears up for the highly anticipated Access Bank Lagos City Marathon on
Saturday, February 15, 2025, excitement and emotion run high. This year’s edition is
much more than a race, it is a moving tribute to legacy and a celebration of resilience.
Under the evocative theme “Miles to Memories,” every stride taken by the runners
transforms physical distance into lasting recollections, blending athletic endurance with
heartfelt remembrance of a visionary leader.
A Race that Transcends the Finish Line
Since its inaugural run in 2016, the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon has evolved from
a local initiative into a global phenomenon. Originally established by Access Bank in
collaboration with the Lagos State Government to promote healthier lifestyles, the event
has grown into a symbol of unity, progress, and economic vitality for both Lagos and
Nigeria. Today, the marathon not only places Lagos on the global sporting map but also
showcases how major sporting events can drive tourism and stimulate business growth.
As a Gold Label Marathon certified by the Association of International Marathons and
Distance Races (AIMS), it stands as a testament to the powerful synergy between sport,
community, and commerce.
Local businesses, from hotels and restaurants to vendors and transport providers, thrive
during the marathon weekend, benefiting from increased patronage as communities
come together to support and celebrate the event. This collective participation reinforces
the idea that when people unite around a common purpose, the rewards are shared by
all.
Honoring a Visionary: Remembering Herbert Wigwe
This year, the marathon carries added emotional significance. It marks the first
anniversary of the passing of Herbert Wigwe, the late Group Chief Executive Officer of
Access Holdings PLC, who was a transformative force behind the event. On the morning
of February 10, 2024, a tragic helicopter crash claimed the lives of Herbert Wigwe, his
wife, his son, and Abimbola Ogunbanjo, the former Group Chairman of the Nigerian
Exchange Group PLC. The loss sent shockwaves throughout the nation, leaving an
indelible void in the hearts of many Nigerians.
Despite the deep sense of loss, Herbert Wigwe’s legacy continues to inspire. In the wake
of the tragedy, concerns arose that Access Bank might reconsider its sponsorship of the
marathon. Instead, in a poignant gesture of remembrance and commitment, Access
Bank, together with the Lagos State Government, has reaffirmed its support for the
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marathon. This enduring dedication ensures that Wigwe’s dreams and aspirations
remain an integral part of every step taken by the runners.
“Miles to Memories”: A Journey of Emotion and Endurance
The theme “Miles to Memories” perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this year’s marathon.
It suggests that every mile covered is imbued with personal and collective memories,
reminders of challenges overcome, of unity celebrated, and of hope nurtured for a better
future. For many participants, the race is a chance to commemorate Herbert Wigwe,
whose visionary leadership not only transformed Access Bank but also reshaped the
sporting landscape of Lagos. His enduring commitment to community development,
healthy living, and economic empowerment continues to serve as a beacon for all who
aspire to make a positive impact.
Each runner’s journey on the race day acts as a bridge between past and future, where
the physical act of running becomes a metaphor for overcoming adversity and building
a hopeful tomorrow. The event stands as a tribute not only to athletic excellence but also
to the unyielding human spirit that continues to rise in the face of loss.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Prominence
When Access Bank and the Lagos State Government first partnered in 2016 to host the
marathon, their goal was simple: to encourage a healthier lifestyle among Lagosians.
Under Herbert Wigwe’s visionary leadership, the event quickly grew in stature. Today, it
has attracted over 600,000 registered athletes from 14 countries, establishing itself as
one of Africa’s most prestigious road races. This remarkable evolution is a testament to
the power of visionary leadership, community engagement, and a relentless pursuit of
excellence.
The marathon’s growth from a local initiative to a globally recognised event highlights
how passion and determination can transform a modest idea into an internationally
celebrated movement. Lagos has firmly established itself as a marathon city renowned
for its energy, hospitality, and unwavering commitment to progress.
Herbert Wigwe’s Vision: A Marathon for Unity & Progress
Herbert Wigwe’s influence on the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon remains as
palpable today as ever. During the 2021 edition, he stated:
“As one of the leading banks in Nigeria and indeed Africa, it is imperative for us to support
the economic and social development of the communities in which we operate. Hence,
we have sponsored the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon to make Lagos more
attractive to tourists and investors alike. We have also used this platform to create jobs
and opportunities for thousands in the state.”
These words, imbued with hope and ambition, continue to guide the event. More than
merely a race, the marathon has become a living legacy of Wigwe’s unwavering
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commitment to community development and the transformative power of sport. His
visionary approach has paved the way for countless initiatives that enrich lives, create
employment opportunities, and foster pride and unity among Nigerians.
Herbert Wigwe’s legacy is not confined to history, it lives on in the hearts of those he
touched and in the strides of every runner who participates in the marathon. His vision
for a healthier, more prosperous Lagos inspires all, ensuring that his contributions will
never be forgotten. Every cheer from the crowd, every drop of sweat on the pavement,
and every moment of reflection during the race stands as a tribute to a man dedicated
to progress, unity, and excellence.
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025 is more than a sporting event—it is a
movement that transforms challenges into triumphs and distances into memories. It
celebrates life, resilience, and the indomitable spirit of a community marching forward,
one determined step at a time.
Sponsors: The Pillars Behind the Marathon
Central to the success of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon are its dedicated
sponsors. Access Bank, the major sponsor, has remained steadfast in its commitment
to community development, ensuring that the marathon continues to be a platform for
positive change. In partnership with the Lagos State Government, the event has grown
into a major contributor to the local economy and an enduring source of inspiration for
athletes and citizens alike.
Their unwavering support has been crucial in maintaining the high standards of the
marathon, including its prestigious Gold Label status from AIMS. This commitment not
only honours Herbert Wigwe’s legacy but also ensures that the marathon continues to
inspire future generations to embrace a healthy, active lifestyle while cherishing the
memories forged along the way.
Community, Commerce, and the Spirit of Resilience
The Access Bank Lagos City Marathon is a celebration of more than athletic prowess, it
is a testament to the power of community and the resilience of Lagosians. The event has
consistently demonstrated that when communities unite, remarkable achievements are
possible. By boosting local tourism and generating business opportunities, the marathon
has had a transformative impact on the city’s economy.
During marathon weekend, local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and retail
outlets experience a surge in activity as visitors from around the globe flock to Lagos. At
the same time, the event showcases the city’s vibrant culture on an international stage,
reinforcing the idea that sport and commerce can work hand in hand to drive progress.
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The Journey Ahead: Legacy, Resilience, and Unity
As runners prepare to take to the streets of Lagos on February 15, 2025, the atmosphere
is charged with a profound sense of purpose. The marathon is not just a competition; it
is a journey of remembrance and unity, where every stride honors the memory of Herbert
Wigwe and every mile becomes a cherished memory. The theme “Miles to Memories”
reminds participants that the race is as much about personal triumph as it is about
collective resilience and hope.
In the face of past tragedies and challenges, the marathon stands as a beacon of hope.
It is a day when the nation comes together to celebrate life, honor legacy, and build a
future founded on unity and progress. Each runner carries with them the spirit of
determination and the memory of a leader who believed in the power of community and
the strength of collective ambition.
In celebrating “Miles to Memories,” the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon 2025
encapsulates the journey from loss to legacy, from grief to hope, and from memories to
future milestones. With the steadfast support of sponsors like Access Bank and the
Lagos State Government, this marathon not only delivers an exhilarating athletic
challenge but also forges enduring memories that will inspire generations to come.
As the starting gun fires and runners take their first steps on the vibrant streets of Lagos,
they are not merely participating in a race, they are becoming part of a legacy. Every
mile traversed is a reminder of the resilience, unity, and indomitable spirit that define this
great city. And in every memory made, the legacy of Herbert Wigwe lives on, guiding
each runner toward a brighter, more hopeful future.
Herbert Wigwe may be gone, but his vision continues to run through the veins of every
Lagosian and every athlete crossing the finish line. In Lagos, every mile is a memory,
and every memory is a step toward a better tomorrow
