Following the historic success of the maiden edition, Cycling Africa in collaboration with the Kano State Government has announced the 2nd Cycling Kano, scheduled to take place on Saturday, December 12, 2026, in the ancient city of Kano. This year’s edition will be held under the theme “Water is Life,” using the power of cycling to drive urgent conversation around access to clean water, water conservation, and climate change.
The 2025 debut of Cycling Kano marked a significant milestone as the first competitive cycling event of its scale in Northern Nigeria, drawing over 1,000 cyclists and enthusiasts from across the country. The upcoming 2026 edition aims to build on that momentum while spotlighting one of the most pressing challenges of our time: the protection and equitable distribution of our water resources.
Commenting on the upcoming event in a statement released on Tuesday, the President and Chief Executive Officer of Cycling Africa, Bamidele Adeleye, said the Cycling Kano 2025 would not have been possible without the backing of the visionary leadership of the Kano State Governor, His Excellency Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, who remains committed to using sports as a tool for youth engagement, economic inclusion, and healthy living.
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He said the 2026 event will feature expanded competitive categories, enhanced route safety, and a renewed focus on grassroots talent discovery.
“Beyond the race itself, Cycling Kano 2026 will serve as a platform for community dialogue, advocacy, and awareness on water-related issues—amplifying the message that every drop counts and that collective action is essential to safeguarding water for future generations.
“The second edition of Cycling Kano represents our commitment to building a lasting cycling culture in Northern Nigeria, and this year we ride with purpose.
“‘Water is Life’ is not just a theme—it is a call to action. By bringing cyclists, communities, and stakeholders together, we hope to spark meaningful conversations about clean water access, conservation, and the impact of climate change on our cities and rural areas.
“Following the remarkable performances we witnessed in 2025—from professional cyclists like Isa Momoh to young talents like Mubarak Auwal and Islam Yau Abubakar—we are eager to provide an even bigger platform for athletes to excel while championing a cause that affects us all,” Adeleye explained.
He said the 2026 event, which will be held in partnership with the Kano State Government, will kick off from the historic Emir’s Palace, traversing key routes across the city and culminating in a finish that celebrates Kano’s rich cultural heritage.
Adeleye said the event will also feature advocacy activations, including water conservation awareness points along the route and partnerships with environmental and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) organizations.
He said Cycling Africa will unveil a portal in November for interested participants to register for the landmark event.
The 2nd Cycling Kano is expected to attract cyclists, cycling clubs, sports enthusiasts, families, and other participants from Kano and different parts of Nigeria, further strengthening the culture of cycling and highlighting its potential as a healthy, environmentally friendly, and sustainable means of mobility.
The 2025 edition, sponsored by the Kano State Government and Union Bank of Nigeria, was also supported by Flour Mills of Nigeria, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria and Cway.
