Lagos Partners with British Cycling for Skills Exchange

Lagos is about to get a major cycling upgrade thanks to a new partnership with one of the world's leading cycling organizations.

The Lagos State Sports Commission welcomed British Cycling officials this week to hammer out a collaboration focused on sharing skills and building expertise. Amy Gardner, British Cycling's Sport and Participation Director, led the delegation that traveled to Nigeria's commercial capital to explore how the two organizations can work together.

The partnership goes beyond just teaching people to ride bikes. Lagos officials see it as a way to improve urban transportation, create opportunities for young athletes, and build connections with international sports leaders.

"Sports has become a powerful tool for diplomacy and development," said Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission. He emphasized that the partnership will bring global best practices to Lagos in ways that actually help local athletes, coaches, and everyday cyclists.

British Cycling was equally enthusiastic about the collaboration. Gardner praised Lagos for its clear vision and ambition, noting that her organization sees real potential for meaningful knowledge exchange that can help cycling grow across the region.

The Ripple Effect

This partnership could transform how Lagosians move around their city. With over 15 million people packed into the metro area, cycling offers a practical solution for transportation challenges while promoting health and environmental benefits.

The collaboration also positions Lagos as a continental leader in cycling development. As cycling infrastructure and culture grow in Lagos, other African cities could follow the model, creating a ripple effect across the continent.

Both organizations plan to formalize their partnership with structured exchange programs and technical workshops. Young Nigerian cyclists will get access to the same training methods that have made British Cycling a global powerhouse, while coaches and administrators will learn how to build sustainable cycling programs.

The initiative represents Lagos State's broader strategy to use sports for youth empowerment and international cooperation. By bringing world-class expertise to West Africa, the partnership creates pathways for Nigerian athletes to compete globally while making cycling accessible to everyday citizens.

Lagos is proving that African cities can stand shoulder to shoulder with international partners and build programs that deliver real results for their communities.