Nigeria is gearing up for an exciting milestone in sports history as Lagos prepares to host the inaugural Gran Fondo EKO 170, a challenging 170-kilometer cycling event taking place on January 11. The groundbreaking competition represents a significant leap forward for cycling in West Africa and showcases the growing enthusiasm for athletic achievement and healthy living across the region.

In a heartening display of corporate commitment to sports development, Mikano International Limited and Changan have stepped forward as Official Platinum and Founding Infrastructure Partners for the event. Their comprehensive support goes far beyond traditional sponsorship, providing essential resources that will ensure riders can compete safely and successfully. The partnership includes a full fleet of lead and support vehicles, on-site power generation for the festival village, medical support services, and sustenance stations throughout the challenging 170-kilometer route.

Event organizer Olalere Odusote expressed genuine excitement about the collaboration, emphasizing that this partnership represents something deeper than a typical sponsorship arrangement. The comprehensive infrastructure support will enable organizers to deliver a world-class experience that matches international cycling standards while celebrating the unique spirit of Lagos.

Mofid Karameh, Chairman of Mikano International, highlighted how the event aligns perfectly with his company's dedication to national development and community engagement. His words reflect a beautiful sentiment: that the cycling challenge embodies ambition, resilience, and collective progress toward a brighter future for Nigeria. The partnership offers a wonderful opportunity to showcase both the energy of Lagos and the talent of Nigerian athletes to a global audience.

The Ripple Effect: This landmark event promises benefits that extend far beyond race day itself. The Lagos State Government's endorsement signals strong institutional support for sports tourism, positioning the city as an emerging destination for international cycling events. The Gran Fondo EKO 170 is specifically designed to become West Africa's largest cycling event, creating a platform that promotes healthy lifestyles while fostering community engagement.

The partnership includes thoughtful touches that demonstrate a commitment to sustainable development. A Mikano Clean Energy Hub will be featured at the finish line festival, educating participants and spectators about renewable energy solutions. This forward-thinking approach shows how sporting events can inspire broader conversations about environmental responsibility and innovation.

With registration having opened in November 2025, the event has already generated significant interest from cycling enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond. The comprehensive support from Mikano and Changan means participants can focus on the pure joy of cycling while knowing that every aspect of safety and logistics has been carefully managed.

As Lagos prepares to welcome riders for this historic challenge, the event stands as a testament to what's possible when corporations, government, and communities unite behind a shared vision of health, excellence, and national pride. The Gran Fondo EKO 170 isn't just a race. It's a celebration of human endurance and the beginning of an exciting new chapter for cycling in Nigeria.