Automobile Club Aims to Enhance Grassroots Motorsport Development in Nigeria
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria is set to launch the Festival of Motorsport in April 2025, promoting grassroots motorsport development. This initiative includes training programs for competitors and aims to engage youth aged 4-17 in various motorsport disciplines. The ATCN’s collaboration with the FIA signifies a promising future for motorsport in Nigeria, enhancing both skills and economic opportunities.
Ishaku Bamaiyi, the Founder and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), announced the club’s initiative to advance grassroots development in motorsport via the upcoming Festival of Motorsport. This event aims to create awareness and promote engagement in various motorsport-related activities throughout Nigeria.
Founded in June 2009, the ATCN advocates for road safety, environmental awareness, health services, and motorsport development. Since its affiliation with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) in December 2012, the ATCN has become a pivotal figure in Nigerian motorsport, representing multiple international automotive organizations.
During a recent signing ceremony for the Festival of Motorsport 2025, Bamaiyi stated that the event, scheduled for April, signifies a transformative phase for motorsport in Nigeria. He elaborated on the FIA’s delegation of Sporting Power to Motorsport Nigeria Ltd, which will oversee this agreement with Alhaji Bashir Ibrahim as the Commercial Rights Holder.
Bamaiyi emphasized the importance of licensing for all competitors and the necessity of participation in ATCN training programs, which can be accessed physically or online. He also mentioned the imminent launch of an app to facilitate engagement in motorsport activities.
The Festival of Motorsport will feature multiple disciplines, granting opportunities for competitors, officials, marshals, and others involved in the industry. Bamaiyi identified key areas for development, including karting for various age groups and additional motorsport disciplines such as drifting and auto slalom.
Targeting ages 4 to 17, the Festival is designed to engage youth participants and align with the objectives of the National Sports Commission. Bamaiyi noted the club’s past efforts to foster motorsport without any financial burden on participants, marking this initiative as a significant milestone.
Bamaiyi stated that the ongoing collaboration with the FIA and the Emirates Motorsport Organization for training initiatives illustrates the commitment to enhancing motorsport in Nigeria. Furthermore, he highlighted the successful implementation of the FIA Girls on Track initiative and the participation of Nigerian competitors in the FIA Motorsport Games and FIM Intercontinental Games.
Bamaiyi concluded by expressing optimism about the future of motorsport in Nigeria as the ATCN continues to build a robust infrastructure, poised to contribute positively to the national economy.
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria is taking significant steps to promote grassroots motorsport development through the Festival of Motorsport, scheduled for April 2025. This initiative, alongside comprehensive training programs and collaboration with international organizations, aims to enhance the skills of competitors and broaden involvement in motorsport across Nigeria. With a focus on youth participation, this venture not only supports sporting aspirations but also aims to stimulate economic growth.
Original Source: nannews.ng
