Nigerian long-distance runner Gang James delivered a historic performance on Saturday, November 14, 2026, setting a new national record at the third edition of the PremiumTrust Bank Abuja City International Half Marathon. James finished the contest in second place overall, crossing the line just two seconds behind the race winner, according to Sports247 Nigeria.
Ethiopian athlete Gemechu Tolosa Dana secured first place after clocking a winning time of 1:01:56. James followed closely behind in 1:01:58 to establish the new Nigerian benchmark, while Kenya's Lampard Kingoo completed the podium in third position with a time of 1:01:59.
Kenya’s Enos Kipruto crossed the finish line in fourth place at 1:02:06, and Julius Ocheng of Uganda took fifth spot in 1:02:27. For his overall victory, Tolosa took home the top prize of $8,000. James earned $6,000 for his second-place finish, alongside a bonus of ₦1.5 million for emerging as the fastest Nigerian in the field.
Speaking after the event, James expressed excitement over his performance and acknowledged the tough competition from East African runners. He explained that running alongside Tolosa and the Kenyan athletes pushed him to stay focused until the finish line. He added that achieving the feat in front of a home crowd made the milestone deeply meaningful, noting that the new record is only the beginning of his journey.
The half marathon, organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, featured more than 5,000 participants. The field included around 50 elite competitors from Nigeria, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda.
The route flagged off opposite the Federal Fire Service on Mohammed Buhari Way and concluded inside the Velodrome of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. Alongside the road race, the event featured musical performances and entertainment for spectators and participants.
