…… A Triumph of Collaboration and National Pride

Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic hub, transformed into a vibrant stage for endurance cycling this past weekend as the inaugural Lagos Gran Fondo “EKO 170” concluded triumphantly on January 11, 2026. The groundbreaking 170-kilometre mass-participation race, Africa’s longest urban cycling event of its kind, drew hundreds of elite and amateur cyclists from across Nigeria and beyond, marking a major milestone in the city’s push for sports tourism, healthy living, and sustainable mobility.

The event, organized by the Dynastar Sport and Education Foundation and fully endorsed by the Lagos State Government, aligned seamlessly with the state’s strategic development goals, including traffic management, health and environment, tourism, and governance. Starting and finishing at the iconic Eko Atlantic City, participants tackled challenging routes that showcased Lagos’s stunning coastal beauty, modern infrastructure, and dynamic urban landscape — from Victoria Island through Lekki-Epe Expressway to Epe and back.

The race featured two distances: a demanding 170km full course and a more accessible 70km option, with full traffic diversions and security support from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and other agencies ensuring safety from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m.

This grand achievement was a powerful demonstration of what visionary leadership and collective effort can accomplish. The Lagos State Government’s crucial backing provided the essential framework of legitimacy, security coordination, and inter-agency support, while a coalition of forward-thinking private partners brought the vision to life.

Among the key contributors was Mikano International, Motors Division and Changan, serving as the Official Infrastructure Partner. Their foundational support helped deliver the high-quality execution that made the event possible.

More than just a sporting spectacle, the EKO 170 served as a masterclass in collaborative nation-building — bringing together government, communities, athletes, and corporate partners to create a replicable model of excellence for Nigeria. It inspired healthier lifestyles, boosted local tourism, and positioned Lagos as a rising global destination for world-class endurance sports.

As the dust settles on this historic weekend, the EKO 170 stands as a national triumph, proving that when Lagos unites in purpose, extraordinary results follow. Organizers and officials are already looking ahead to future editions that will further elevate Africa’s megacity on the international stage.

BUA Group’s Chairman, Abdul Samad Rabiu congratulated the Super Eagles players on their brilliant victory against Algeria!

The Super Eagles thrashed the desert warriors 2-0 in the Saturday’s match at Marrakesh.

The billionaire industrialist, following the Super Eagles won, took the his official X handle, rejoicing with the team, and pledging:

” You have lifted the spirit of the nation, and we proudly cheer you on as you prepare for the semi-finals.

To encourage you, I pledge USD $500,000 to the players upon winning the semi-final, with an additional USD $50,000 for every goal scored.

Should you go on to win the final, I further pledge USD $1,000,000, plus USD $100,000 for each goal scored in the final.”

Nigeria’s forward #09 Victor Osimhen (R) celebrates scoring his team’s first goal during the Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) quarter-final football match between Algeria and Nigeria at the Grand stadium in Marrakesh on January 10, 2026. (Photo by Paul ELLIS / AFP).

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State governor Peter Obi have joined millions of Nigerians in celebrating the Super Eagles’ 2–0 victory over Algeria, a result that booked the team a place in the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations and reignited national belief in a title run.

In statements signed by both opposition leaders, the win was framed as more than just a football result, with each describing it as a moment of pride and shared joy for Nigerians at home and in the diaspora.

Atiku described the night as a proud one for the country, applauding the team’s resolve and the hope their performance has stirred across the nation.“A proud night for our nation. I celebrate the Super Eagles on their solid 2–0 victory over Algeria in the AFCON quarter-final.

“Your fighting spirit has once again lifted the hopes of millions of Nigerians. Keep soaring, we are firmly behind you,” he said.Obi, in a separate message, praised the Super Eagles for making a strong statement with their display, saying the victory sent a clear signal to the rest of the continent.