GOUNI Confirms Full Readiness for 2025 Marathon as 200 Athletes Register

Godfrey Okoye University, Enugu, has concluded all preparations for the 2025 GOUNI Marathon scheduled for Tuesday, December 2, 2025, with 200 athletes officially registered to compete.

Chairperson of the Marathon Committee and University Bursar, Professor Modesta Egiyi, disclosed the update during a live session on GOUNI Radio Sports. She stated that the race, themed “GOUNI Marathon for Active and Exciting Life,” is open exclusively to non-professional runners residing in Enugu State. She encouraged interested participants to take advantage of the free registration available at the GOUNI Main Gate, Thinkers Corner; GOUNI Ugwuomu Campus; and the Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu.

Professor Egiyi noted that the marathon aligns with the university’s ongoing efforts to empower young people and promote healthy lifestyles.

Technical Assistant (Special Duties) to the Enugu State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Boniface Onovo, confirmed that the Marathon Committee is working closely with the State Government, the Federal Road Safety Corps, and relevant security agencies to ensure a seamless event. He revealed that strict anti-cheating measures have been activated, including the deployment of six motorbikes and bicycles to manage traffic and monitor runners. Secured armbands have also been issued to all registered athletes.

Mr. Onovo outlined the approved route, beginning at the Thinkers Corner Campus II Main Gate and ending at the GOUNI Main Campus, Ugwuomu Nike, covering 21.79 km. He warned that any attempt to cheat would attract immediate disqualification and advised participants to train moderately to avoid injuries, exhaustion, or cramps.

Director of Sports at Godfrey Okoye University, Mr. Felix Emene, noted that students with interest in long-distance racing are being mobilised to participate. He added that medical teams from the GOUNI Teaching Hospital and university clinics will be on standby to conduct health checks and provide support throughout the marathon.

Accreditation of athletes will take place on December 1 and conclude at 6:30 a.m. on the morning of the event. The marathon is scheduled to kick off at 7:00 a.m., to be flagged off by the Vice-Chancellor, Rev. Fr. Prof. Christian Anieke.

The University encourages eligible runners and fitness enthusiasts across Enugu to join the competition aimed at promoting health, discipline, and youth development.