Automobile Club Initiates Grassroots Development of Motorsport in Nigeria
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), led by Ishaku Bamaiyi, aims to enhance grassroots motorsport development through the Festival of Motorsport set for April 2025. ATCN serves as the FIA’s representative in Nigeria, committing to licensing and training for competitors while promoting youth engagement in various disciplines. The initiative supports economic growth and provides training opportunities in partnership with the Emirates Motorsport Organization, showcasing Nigeria’s talent on an international platform.
Ishaku Bamaiyi, the Founder and President of the Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), announced the organization’s commitment to enhancing grassroots motorsport development through the upcoming Festival of Motorsport. Established in June 2009, ATCN aims to promote road safety, environmental awareness, health services, and motorsport within Nigeria. It serves as the official representative for the FIA, FIM, and FIVA in the country.
Bamaiyi shared this information during the signing ceremony for the Festival of Motorsport 2025, set to take place in April. This event represents a significant advancement in motorsport in Nigeria, with the FIA delegating Sporting Power to Motorsport Nigeria Ltd. He advised potential competitors that licensing and participation in training programs, either virtually or in person, are prerequisites for involvement in the Festival.
The Festival will encompass multiple motorsport disciplines allowing Nigerian talent to shine in various roles, including competitors, officials, marshals, marketers, commentators, photographers, videographers, and engineers. Bamaiyi emphasized that this initiative aims to equip participants with the necessary skills for success in international competitions, highlighting disciplines such as Karting, Drifting, Auto Slalom, and Digital Motorsport.
ATCN is committed to fostering youth involvement, providing programs for children aged 4 to 17 that align with the National Sports Commission’s initiatives. Bamaiyi noted that previous training programs offered essential support without financial burden on participants. This signing signifies a pivotal moment for grassroots motorsport in Nigeria, contributing to economic growth and industry development.
To enhance motorsport training in Nigeria, the FIA has partnered with Emirates Motorsport Organization (EMSO) as a Regional Training Provider. Additionally, the FIA has launched a “Young Driver Programme for Motorsport Development,” with the first phase completed in October 2022 and the second phase scheduled for April 2023. The FIA Girls on Track initiative was also implemented, fostering female participation in motorsport.
Furthermore, the FIA and FIM have developed individual championships and the FIA Motorsport Games, which allows countries to compete for medals in different motorsport disciplines. Nigeria participated in the FIA Motorsport Games in 2022 and is set to compete again in 2024 in Spain after achieving notable results in various categories during previous competitions.
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria is poised to significantly advance grassroots motorsport through the Festival of Motorsport, scheduled for April. This initiative emphasizes the importance of training, youth involvement, and opportunities within the sport. By establishing partnerships and training programs, ATCN aims to elevate Nigeria’s presence in the international motorsport arena and foster economic growth.
Original Source: nannews.ng
