A total of N500,000 in cash prizes has been awarded to top finishers from Power Oil’s exclusive running community following the 2026 edition of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon, as the brand reinforced its message of collective wellness over individual competition.
The community-focused initiative culminated at the February 14 race, marking the end of several weeks of structured preparation designed to make marathon participation more accessible to everyday Nigerians. Rather than positioning the race as a one-off sponsorship opportunity, Power Oil framed its involvement as an extension of its broader health advocacy efforts.
“Our goal was to make marathon participation accessible to everyday Nigerians,” said Roland Akpe, Marketing Manager, Oils and Fats Portfolio at Tolaram. “We wanted to demonstrate that with proper support and community, anyone can achieve fitness goals they previously thought impossible.”
Through the Power Oil Exclusive Running Community, participants received professional coaching, structured training schedules, and nutritional guidance in the lead-up to the marathon. Engagement was further strengthened via a dedicated WhatsApp platform that provided digital support, motivation, and coordination throughout the training period.
To reward outstanding performance, the company set aside N500,000 in cash prizes for the top three finishers within its community cohort, underscoring its commitment to recognizing dedication while maintaining an inclusive approach.
The marathon initiative aligns with Power Oil’s long-running cardiovascular health advocacy in Nigeria. Over the past 13 years, the brand has spearheaded several wellness-focused programs, including WalkHeartOn—an annual event commemorating World Heart Day—free health screening camps that have reportedly reached more than 72,000 Nigerians, and sustained public education campaigns promoting heart-healthy cooking and lifestyle habits.
Unlike traditional event-based marketing campaigns that end with the race day spotlight, the Power Oil Running Community is designed to continue beyond the marathon. The sustained engagement model reflects a broader shift within Nigeria’s consumer goods sector, where brands are increasingly investing in long-term wellness initiatives aimed at fostering deeper, more authentic consumer relationships.
According to the company, the exclusive community framework could serve as a blueprint for other brands seeking to contribute meaningfully to public health outcomes while strengthening trust and engagement among consumers.