Nigeria, Aug. 16 -- The wave of marathon races in Nigeria has blown to the South-eastern part of the country where Onitsha is set to host the first international marathon in that region.

According to a statement issued by the organisers, over 20,000 runners from across the world are expected to take part in the race which coincides with the popular Ofala Festival.

Chisom Okereke-Ekpe, Head of Marketing and Branding of the Onitsha City Marathon, confirmed that the race will take place on October 5.

She explained this edition will only be 'half marathon' while subsequent ones will include both the 10km and 5km races.

"We are starting with just half marathon this year but from next year, it will definitely be bigger with the addition of ...