Automobile Club Announces Festival of Motorsport to Boost Grassroots Development

Ishaku Bamaiyi, President of the ATCN, announced the Festival of Motorsport to promote grassroots motorsport in Nigeria. The ATCN, established in 2009 and affiliated with international organizations, is set to host the event in April 2025. Participation will require licensing and training for competitors. The festival is designed to develop skills across various motorsport disciplines for ages 4-17, aligning with national sports goals. Significant support from the FIA and the EMSO will enhance training opportunities and elevate Nigerian competitors on the global stage.

Ishaku Bamaiyi, the Founder and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), announced plans for advancing grassroots motorsport through the inaugural Festival of Motorsport. Established in June 2009, the ATCN is dedicated to promoting road safety, environmental awareness, health services, and the growth of motorsport within Nigeria. Additionally, the ATCN is the official representative of multiple international motor sport organizations, including the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Fédération Internationale de Motorcyclisme (FIM).

At a recent signing event for the Festival of Motorsport 2025, slated for April, Bamaiyi expressed optimism about fostering a new era in Nigeria’s motorsport scene. He shared that the FIA has delegated Sporting Power to Motorsport Nigeria Ltd, which will be in collaboration with Alhaji Bashir Ibrahim as the Commercial Rights Holder and Promoter. This move indicates a commitment to enhancing the sport and providing opportunities for aspiring athletes and competitors in various disciplines.

Bamaiyi emphasized that all competitors must be licensed and participate in compulsory training programs, which will be available both in-person and online. The Festival aims to be a multi-disciplinary platform that will allow Nigerian talent to shine in various roles, such as competitors, officials, marketers, and technical staff. This initiative promises invaluable skills and exposure, setting the stage for participation in international motorsport events.

The Festival will cater to participants aged 4 to 17, aligning with the objectives set by Malam Shehu Dikko, the Chairman of the National Sports Commission. The ATCN has a history of supporting grassroots development by providing training and organizing events at no cost to participants. Bamaiyi noted that this signing marks a pivotal day for motorsport in Nigeria, enhancing its economic contributions and creating a robust industry.

Furthermore, the FIA has appointed Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO) to serve as the Regional Training Provider in Nigeria, which will help bolster the capabilities of competitors. Training programs are being implemented as part of the FIA’s Young Driver Programme, reflecting ongoing efforts to nurture the next generation of motorsport talents. The ATCN is also leading initiatives like the FIA Girls on Track program, fostering inclusivity in motorsport participation.

Bamaiyi pointed out that Nigeria’s involvement in the FIA Motorsport Games has been notable, with the nation competing in France in 2022 and gearing up for participation in Spain in 2024. The objective is to provide competitors with opportunities to represent Nigeria internationally in various disciplines. This reaffirms Nigeria’s commitment to advancing motorsport development nationally and globally, contributing positively to its economic landscape.

The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria is set to revolutionize grassroots motorsport with the upcoming Festival of Motorsport. This initiative represents a significant commitment to training and nurturing talent across various age groups and roles. The delegation of Sporting Power to Motorsport Nigeria Ltd is a constructive step towards increasing participation and enhancing skills within Nigeria’s motorsport sphere. Through strategic partnerships and training programs, the ATCN aims to position Nigeria as a competitive force in international motorsport.

Original Source: nannews.ng