Lagos Announces Traffic Diversion for 'Eko 170' Cycling Race on Sunday
Traffic Diversion for Lagos 'Eko 170' Cycling Race

The Lagos State Government has rolled out a comprehensive traffic management plan in preparation for a major international cycling event scheduled for this weekend. The Lagos Gran Fondo "Eko 170" Cycling Race is set to take place on Sunday, January 11, 2026, with activities planned from the early hours of 5:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m.

Official Announcement and Event Details

Commissioner for Transportation, Mr. Oluwaseun Osiyemi, made the official announcement via a statement released in Lagos on Saturday. He detailed the arrangements for the mass participation event, which is being organized by the Dynastar Sport and Education Foundation. The "Eko 170" is a significant 170-kilometre race designed to promote sports tourism and healthy living in Nigeria's commercial capital.

Osiyemi explained that the race will feature two distinct routes to cater to different levels of cyclists. The shorter route will cover 70 kilometres, while the main event will challenge participants with the full 170-kilometre distance.

Race Routes and Affected Roads

The starting and finishing point for both races will be the iconic Eko Atlantic City. From there, cyclists will embark on their journey through several major and community roads across the Lekki-Epe corridor.

The 70km Route: This path will take riders from Eko Atlantic, onto Ahmadu Bello Way, then through the Coastal Road. It continues via the Okun-Ajah Community Road, Ogombo Road, and the Abraham Adesanya Junction. The route proceeds on the Lekki-Epe Expressway through Sangotedo before looping back to the finish line at Eko Atlantic.

The 170km Route: Participants opting for the full challenge will follow the initial 70km path but extend further. After Sangotedo, they will head to the Epe T-Junction, move through the Ita Marun Junction, and traverse the Poka-Araga Road. The route includes the Oke Osho Junction and Temu Road before returning via the Epe T-Junction back to the starting point at Eko Atlantic.

Traffic Management and Public Advisory

To ensure safety and order, the Lagos State Government has mandated the regulation of all adjoining roads, junctions, and intersections along the designated race routes. This critical operation will be managed by officials from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) in collaboration with other security agencies. Their primary role will be to control movement and prevent unauthorized access to the race tracks during the event period.

Commissioner Osiyemi clarified that roads would not be completely shut down but would remain partially open to motorists. He, however, issued a strong advisory to all road users planning to travel through the affected areas on Sunday morning.

Motorists are urged to exercise a high degree of patience, cooperate fully with traffic officials on the ground, and adhere strictly to all instructions and diversions. "These measures are in place to ensure the safety of both participants and road users during the event," Osiyemi emphasized.

Broader Impact and Vision for Lagos

The Lagos Gran Fondo "EKO 170" is more than just a cycling race; it is a strategic initiative by the state government. The event is designed to position Lagos as a leading destination for sports tourism, promote a culture of healthy living, and advocate for sustainable mobility solutions within the bustling metropolis.

According to the state's vision, the race will serve as a dynamic platform to showcase Lagos's improving infrastructure, its stunning coastal beauty, and its famously vibrant culture to a national and international audience. The event underscores the government's commitment to hosting world-class events that boost the local economy and enhance the city's global profile.