The countdown has tightened with all eyes are now on Friday, when the world press conference for the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon will hold in the capital city.
Organisers say Friday will set the tone for race day. Elite athletes will be unveiled. The full race programme will be confirmed. Questions around the route, prize structure, security, medical cover and road closures will be answered in one sitting.
The race will start at the Old Parade Ground and finish at the Velodrome inside the MKO Abiola National Stadium. That route has already been inspected, measured and cleared for final markings. Officials say Friday will give the public a clear picture of what to expect on every kilometre.
The Chief Executive Officer of Nilayo Sports Management, Mrs Yetunde Olopade, is expected to lead the briefing alongside key stakeholders. The session will outline the vision behind this year’s edition, the improvements made from previous editions, and the standards the organisers intend to uphold on race day.
Behind the scenes, final preparations are moving fast. Race bibs and timing chips are being sorted and matched to runners. Accreditation is being finalised for athletes, officials, media and volunteers. Volunteers are receiving their last briefings on their posts, shifts and responsibilities.
Medical teams, security agencies and traffic officials have completed joint walk-throughs of the route. Ambulance points have been confirmed. Hydration points have been mapped at regular intervals. Junctions and diversion routes have been agreed to keep movement smooth for residents while the race is on.
Timing officials are also running final tests on mats, chips and backup systems. Every split must be captured cleanly, as elite runners chase personal bests, prize money and qualification marks. Organisers insist there will be no room for errors on race day.
Hotels are filling up with athletes, coaches and officials. Running clubs across the city are tapering their training. School groups are preparing their cheering points. Photographers are scouting vantage points at the National Mosque, under the Shehu Shagari Bridge and inside the Stadium.
Friday’s press conference is expected to draw local and international media, sponsors, federation officials and top runners. Organisers say it will also serve as a final assurance to residents and motorists on road diversions and timings.
The event is being positioned as a showcase for Abuja. The city’s landmarks, wide roads and warm hospitality will be on display to a global audience. Local businesses are already feeling the lift, with increased bookings for hotels, transport, food and other services.
About 72 hours remain before race day. The message from the organisers is simple. The planning is done. The stage is set. Abuja is ready to run.
