Kaduna Hosts Landmark International Horse Racing Derby

Posted : 12 July 2025

Kaduna State has become the center of attention as it hosts the International Horse Racing Derby, a significant event organized by the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN). Announced by HRFN’s National Coordinator, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar-Bida, the four-day event is themed ‘Hope Renewed Sahel Savannah Series 2025, Under Division System Race’ and celebrates both Nigeria’s rich horse racing heritage and the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

According to Abubakar-Bida, also known as the ‘Sarkin Dawakin Nupe,’ the event reflects the federation’s recognition of President Tinubu’s contributions to national development over the past two years. He praised Tinubu’s efforts to stabilize the economy and support local industries, including the domestic breeding of horses. “We believe in his leadership and the positive strides his administration is making,” he said.

Abubakar-Bida also emphasized Tinubu’s commitment to sports, highlighting the creation of the National Sports Commission (NSC) as a replacement for the now-defunct Ministry of Sports. This, he said, has reduced bureaucracy and granted the commission more authority to advance athletic development across the country.

Kaduna holds a special place in the history of horse racing in Nigeria, with the sport’s formal introduction in 1953 by the late Sardauna of Sokoto. “That’s why Kaduna remains the traditional closing venue for the national horse racing season,” Abubakar-Bida noted, underscoring its symbolic significance.

The event features participants from across Nigeria and neighboring countries including Niger, Cameroon, and Burkina Faso. On the first day alone, seven races were held, with five race categories showcasing various horse breeds such as the local Nigerian breed, Sudanese, and Talon horses.

In a light-hearted nod to presidential pride, Abubakar-Bida mentioned that President Tinubu’s horse has maintained a winning streak over the past two years, and expectations remain high that it will retain its crown at the grand finale on Saturday.

The closing ceremony of the derby is expected to be graced by President Tinubu himself, joined by prominent figures such as the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Tajuddeen Abbas, and dignitaries from both within and outside Nigeria.

Kaduna Hosts Landmark International Horse Racing Derby

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