The National Sports Commission (NSC) has declared Nigeria’s interest in hosting a Formula 1 (F1) Grand Prix.
Shehu Dikko, chairman of the NSC, has appointed Opus Racing Promotions as the official representative for Nigeria’s bid to host the prestigious race in Abuja.
Dikko also extended formal invitations to Stefano Domenicali, CEO of Formula 1; Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time F1 World Champion; and Tilke Engineers & Architects, world-renowned racetrack designers, to visit Nigeria and engage with both government and private sector stakeholders.
“We are exploring all possibilities to bring Formula 1 to Nigeria as soon as practicable — not just as a sporting event, but as a catalytic driver of tourism, infrastructure development, youth engagement, economic growth, and indeed soft power for Nigeria,” said Dikko.
“A Nigerian Grand Prix would not only boost national pride but also strengthen infrastructure, attract private investment, and create economic opportunities and jobs, firmly positioning sports as a vital pillar of Nigeria’s GDP growth and unity.”
If successful, Nigeria would become the first African country to host an F1 Grand Prix since South Africa in 1993.
However, South Africa and Rwanda are also currently in discussions to host the event in their respective cities.
Formula 1, F1 races are typically held on specially constructed circuits, although some utilize a blend of public roads and purpose-built tracks.
According to Dikko, the bid backed by BL Practice Hub is a strategic move reflecting Nigeria’s global aspirations and its readiness to showcase its potential to the world.
