The 8th edition of the Bonny Island Marathon concluded with spectacular displays of speed and endurance, firmly establishing itself as a premier event for both elite competition and grassroots talent development in Nigeria. Held on Saturday, December 20, 2025, on Bonny Island in Rivers State, the marathon attracted a diverse field of runners competing for a shared prize pool of ₦5 million.
Elite Athletes from Plateau State Claim Top Honors
In a stunning showcase of emerging talent, athletes from Plateau State dominated the elite categories. Gang James Boyi, a 19-year-old runner, delivered a masterclass performance to win the elite men's race. He crossed the finish line in a commanding time of 45 minutes and 24 seconds, securing the top prize of ₦750,000.
The elite women's race witnessed a similar display of dominance by another Plateau State athlete. Goar Grace Danlami, aged 20, powered to victory with a winning time of 55 minutes and 16 seconds. Her impressive feat earned her an equal top prize of ₦750,000, matching the men's award.
Celebrating Youth and Indigenous Talent
Beyond the elite races, the marathon's commitment to youth development and local inclusion shone brightly. The teen categories were fiercely contested, with Joshua Pam (15) from Plateau State winning the teen male division and Ozuomba Abigail (15) from Rivers State topping the teen female category.
The event also honored indigenous runners, with Nengi Wilcox winning the indigenous men's category and Banigo Racheal Isaac emerging victorious in the indigenous women's race. These categories underscored the marathon's deep roots in the local community.
A Platform for Sports Tourism and Development
Organizers hailed the 2025 edition as a significant milestone in promoting grassroots athletics and wellness. The recent opening of the Bonny-Bodo road, which connects mainland Rivers State to the island, was highlighted as a key factor in positioning Bonny Island as a viable destination for sports tourism.
The prize-giving ceremony was graced by the presence of Senator Ipalibo Harry-Banigo, representing Rivers West Senatorial District. She presented medals to the elite female winners and commended the organizers for sustaining the marathon initiative. Senator Harry-Banigo reaffirmed her commitment to supporting projects that advance both state and national development through sports.
With consistent growth in youth participation and expanding national reach, the Bonny Island Marathon continues to evolve. It has successfully transformed from a simple race into a robust platform for talent discovery, community engagement, and holistic development within Nigeria's sporting landscape.
