Ethiopians emerge champions at 2023 ECOWAS Abuja International Half Marathon

Ethiopian runners have claimed top honours in the half marathon men’s and women’s categories in the ECOWAS international half marathon held in Abuja on
Saturday.

In the men’s race, Gebresilase Abadi Haftamu of Ethiopia stormed to victory, securing the first place and a the accompanying $10,000 top prize money.

Kenya’s Alexander Njai Muhia came in second, taking home $5,000 with Nigeria’s Sadjo Ismael third and earned $4,000 for his efforts.

In the Women’s category, Belay Minsewo Abensah, the 2018 African Youth Games and World U18 3000m champion made it a clean sweep of the men and women’s titles by Ethiopians.

Daylop Patience led the charge for Nigeria, claiming second place in the women’s to earn $5,000 for her efforts. Maiate Yohanna Vera and Badung Pam Deborah finished third and fourth respectively.

The excitement wasn’t limited to the half marathon. The five-kilometres race also saw enthusiastic participation, with the top five finishers receiving prize money ranging from $750 for first place to $200 for fifth.

Race Director Gabriel Okon expressed immense satisfaction with the event’s success, particularly lauding the calibre of runners who participated. He
highlighted the growing stature of the ECOWAS Abuja International Marathon and celebrated the improvement shown by Nigerian runners.

Francis Chuks Njoaguani, Director at ECOWAS Youth and Sports Development, extended gratitude to all those who contributed to the race’s success, including
the Federal Capital Territory administration.

He further emphasized ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to investing in initiatives that empower and improve the lives of youths across the West African sub-region.