Enugu Marathon: Govt, Nilayo Train Over 200 Volunteers Ahead of International Race
By Esther Ikwunne
The Enugu State Government, in collaboration with Nilayo Sports Management, has trained more than 200 volunteers ahead of the Enugu City International Marathon scheduled to hold on Saturday, August 29, 2026.
The training, held Wednesday at Michael Okpara Square, Enugu, was designed to equip the volunteers with the requisite etiquette, professionalism and skills needed to effectively support participants and ensure a successful international-standard marathon.
Speaking during the exercise, Mr Ebidowei Oweifie, Special Assistant on Special Duties to the Director-General of the National Sports Commission, said the training was aimed at familiarising the volunteers with the rules guiding the marathon and their responsibilities during the race.
Oweifie described volunteers as a critical component of any successful sporting event, stressing that their conduct and commitment could significantly influence the experience of participants and spectators.
He urged the volunteers to remain enthusiastic throughout the race by cheering and encouraging runners, while also cautioning them against distractions that could undermine their responsibilities.
According to him, the volunteers would be divided into different teams and deployed to strategic locations along the race route, where they would provide guidance, support and encouragement to participants.
The organisers said the training formed part of comprehensive preparations to ensure that the Enugu City International Marathon meets international standards.
With thousands of runners expected to participate in the race, the well-trained volunteers are expected to play key roles in crowd management, directing participants, providing information and boosting the morale of runners throughout the competition.
Members of the medical team, including Mrs Dominica Onyia-Okereke and Mrs Portia Odo, were also present at the training.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
