Cycling Kano Returns December 12 with “Water is Life” Campaign
Cycling Africa, in collaboration with the Kano State Government, has announced the second edition of Cycling Kano, scheduled for Saturday, December 12, 2026, in Kano. This year’s event will centre on the theme “Water is Life,” using sport to raise awareness about clean water access, conservation and climate change.
The announcement builds on the inaugural event in 2025, which organisers described as the first competitive cycling event of its scale in Northern Nigeria. It attracted more than 1,000 cyclists and enthusiasts from across the country. The 2026 edition will continue that momentum while placing water-related issues at the heart of its campaign.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Cycling Africa President and Chief Executive Officer Bamidele Adeleye credited the Kano State Governor, His Excellency Engr. Abba Kabir Yusuf, for supporting the first edition and backing the use of sports to promote youth engagement, economic inclusion and healthy living.
Adeleye said the 2026 event will introduce 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.
The event, held in partnership with the Kano State Government, will start at the historic Emir’s Palace and follow key routes across the city before concluding with a finish celebrating Kano’s cultural heritage.
Organisers also plan to stage advocacy activities along the route, including water conservation awareness points and partnerships with environmental and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) organisations. Cycling Africa is expected to launch a registration portal in November for participants.
Cycling Kano 2026 is expected to draw cyclists, clubs, sports enthusiasts, families and other participants from Kano and across Nigeria. The event aims to build cycling’s profile as a platform for sport and community engagement, as well as a healthy, environmentally friendly and sustainable form of mobility.
The 2025 edition was sponsored by the Kano State Government and Union Bank of Nigeria, with additional support from Flour Mills of Nigeria, FrieslandCampina WAMCO Nigeria and Cway.
For sponsorship, partnership and participation enquiries, contact the organisers at cyclingkano@gmail.com or call 07033956609.
About Cycling Africa
Cycling Africa is the management body responsible for Cycling Lagos and Cycling Kano. It is dedicated to positioning cycling as a platform for sports development, tourism, healthy living and economic opportunity across the continent.
