Ethiopia’s Gemechu Tolosa Dana on Saturday emerged champion of the 2026 PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon after an impressive performance in the men’s race.

The third edition of the competition attracted more than 5,000 runners, with increased international participation compared to the previous edition, highlighting the consistency of the organisers, Nilayo Sports Management.

The race began opposite the Federal Fire Service on Mohammed Buhari Way and ended at the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja.

Gemechu delivered a commanding performance to cross the finish line in 1:01:56, earning the $8,000 winner’s prize.

Nigeria’s Gang James finished just two seconds behind the Ethiopian in 1:01:58, setting a new national record in the process.

His impressive performance also earned him $6,000 and ₦1.5 million for finishing as the leading Nigerian athlete in the local runners’ category.

Speaking after the race, an elated James expressed delight at achieving the milestone in front of his home supporters.

“I am very happy to break the National Record. I worked so hard for this moment, and to do it here in Abuja, in front of my people, makes it even more special,” he said.

He added that competing against some of Africa’s leading long-distance runners pushed him to deliver his best performance.

“Running against Gemechu and the Kenyans pushed me to give my best. I knew I had to stay with them till the end. This record is just the beginning for me,” he said.

Kenya’s Lampard Kingoo finished third in 1:01:59, followed by compatriot Enos Kipruto, who clocked 1:02:06. Uganda’s Julius Ocheng completed the top five in 1:02:27.

The 2026 edition lived up to expectations, producing strong performances and providing another platform to showcase the progress of Nigerian long-distance running.

The prize money for the competition ranged from $8,000 to $500, while Nigerian athletes received rewards ranging from ₦2 million to ₦50,000.

Athletes from several countries participated in the event, including approximately 50 elite runners from Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia and Nigeria.

The competition also featured a colourful atmosphere, with Nigerian musical acts entertaining athletes, invited guests and spectators before, during and after the presentation of prizes to the winners.