Nigeria has formally announced its intention to host a Formula 1 Grand Prix, as revealed by the National Sports Commission (NSC).
According to The Cable, NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko confirmed that Opus Racing Promotions has been designated as Nigeria’s official representative in its bid to bring the prestigious motorsport event to Abuja.
Dikko also disclosed that invitations have been extended to Formula 1 CEO Stefano Domenicali, seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, and Tilke Engineers & Architects — the renowned firm behind several iconic F1 circuits — to visit Nigeria and engage with both government officials and private sector stakeholders.
“We are actively exploring all avenues to bring Formula 1 to Nigeria in the near future,” Dikko stated, emphasizing that the initiative goes beyond sports. He highlighted the potential benefits, including a boost to tourism, infrastructure, youth involvement, and economic growth, as well as the enhancement of Nigeria’s global image.
If successful, Nigeria would be the first African nation to host a Grand Prix since South Africa in 1993.
However, Nigeria faces competition, with South Africa and Rwanda also reportedly pursuing opportunities to host the global racing event.
Formula 1 races are typically held on purpose-built circuits, though some are hosted on a mix of city streets and permanent race tracks.
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