Automobile Club Launches Festival to Boost Grassroots Motorsport Development in Nigeria
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), led by Ishaku Bamaiyi, is promoting grassroots motorsport through the upcoming Festival of Motorsport scheduled for April. This initiative aims to involve participants from various disciplines, focusing on training and licensing. The ATCN is also working closely with international bodies to ensure development and opportunities for young aspiring competitors, contributing positively to the economy.
The Automobile and Touring Club of Nigeria (ATCN), led by its Founder and President, Ishaku Bamaiyi, is committed to advancing grassroots motorsport development through initiatives such as the upcoming Festival of Motorsport. Established in June 2009, the ATCN aims to promote road safety, environmental awareness, health services, and motorsport activities, representing major international bodies in Nigeria since 2012.
Scheduled for April, the Festival of Motorsport is anticipated to mark a significant milestone in Nigeria’s motorsport scene. During the event’s signing event, Bamaiyi emphasized innovations that include the delegation of the FIA’s Sporting Power to Motorsport Nigeria Ltd, aiming to engage participants across various divisions of motorsport.
Bamaiyi stressed the importance of licensing for participants, who are required to complete training, either in person or online. Opportunities are plentiful within the event, inviting individuals to participate as competitors, officials, marshals, or various roles in marketing and media.
Potential motorsport disciplines include Karting Sprint for both juniors and seniors, Karting Endurance, Drifting, Auto Slalom, and Digital Motorsport. The event also aims to involve young aspiring competitors, aligning with the National Sports Commission’s youth engagement goals.
Notable achievements in the development of motorsport in Nigeria include various training programs supported by FIA, such as the Young Driver Programme and the implementation of the FIA Girls on Track initiative. Additionally, Nigeria has actively participated in international events, including the FIA Motorsport Games.
The establishment of the Festival of Motorsport illustrates both the ambition and commitment to foster an industry that enriches the Nigerian economy and provides growth opportunities for athletes. Bamaiyi concluded by underscoring the collaborative efforts that will soon bear fruit in the development of this vibrant sport.
In summary, the ATCN is poised to enhance grassroots motorsport development in Nigeria through the Festival of Motorsport and various training initiatives. By collaborating with international organizations and emphasizing youth engagement, the club aims to cultivate a robust motorsport culture that contributes to the economy and supports aspiring competitors. The commitment illustrated by the ATCN President and the backing from FIA signify a promising future for motorsport in Nigeria.
Original Source: nannews.ng
