Cycling Enthusiasts Call for More Sponsorship and Attention to Develop Grassroots Talent in Nigeria
Cycling enthusiasts are calling for more support and sponsorship for cycling competitions in Nigeria, as they believe it is a platform to develop untapped talents at the grassroots level. The 2024 Ibadan Cycling Competition in Oyo State highlighted the need for more attention on cycling in the country.
Organised by Lapet Feats International in collaboration with the Oyo State Sports Council and Oyo State Cycling Association, the competition showcased the potential of young cyclists in the country. Participants from different states competed in various categories, covering distances ranging from two to ten kilometers.
Adetoye Olalekan, a Sports Instructor, emphasized the importance of implementing pre-tournament safeguards to prevent age falsification and improve the standard of the competition. Coach Aminu Kolapo of Rising Stars Sports Academy lamented the lack of sponsors for cycling, despite the abundance of untapped potentials in the sport.
The Chief Executive Officer of Lapet Feats, Olawale Samson, highlighted the health benefits of cycling and the importance of promoting the sport in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal three. He emphasized the affordability, environmental-friendliness, and health benefits of cycling as a means of transportation.
Participants, like 10-year-old Destiny Umeggo from Bright Future Cycling Academy, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase their talents and compete in the event. Winners received back-to-school packs and certificates of participation, encouraging them to continue pursuing their passion for cycling.
With the right support and sponsorship, cycling competitions in Nigeria have the potential to produce Olympic-standard athletes and promote a healthy lifestyle among the youth. It is essential for the government and private sector to invest in the development of cycling at the grassroots level to unlock the country’s full potential in the sport.