NSC Targets to Boost Sports Weekend Economy with Horse Racing

Posted : 05 September 2025

The sports economy agenda set by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu can only be fully realized through the activation of the sports weekend economy, a concept being driven by the National Sports Commission (NSC).

The sports weekend economy envisions sports facilities across the country coming alive every weekend with activities at grassroots, community, and elite levels. Horse racing, among other weekend-based sports, is expected to play a key role in this initiative.

NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, shared this perspective while hosting a delegation of the Nigeria Horse Racing Federation (NHRF), led by the Emir of Zazzau, His Royal Highness Ambassador Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli (CON), and the Etsu of Nupe, His Royal Highness Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar (CON).

Dikko stated that the Commission’s target of creating over three million sports-related jobs would be greatly enhanced by horse racing activities in major Nigerian cities.

He explained:

“The horse racing activities clearly align with what we are trying to do. On the two occasions I attended the Sahel races in Bida and Kaduna this year, I wasn’t just watching the races, I was looking at the economic impact — from those selling at the venues to the thousands in attendance. Even those training and caring for the horses are part of the sports job ecosystem.”

He emphasized the importance of ensuring that sports facilities are fully utilized every weekend:

“We don’t want idle venues on weekends. When people plan their weekends, we want them to include at least one sporting event nearby. The uniqueness of horse racing makes it very viable for the sports weekend economy.”

Dikko pledged to support the NHRF in gaining international recognition and promised to expedite the Federation’s formal approval under the NSC, enabling proper funding allocations. He also committed to encouraging state governments to upgrade or build new horse racing courses.

House Committee Chairman on Sports, Hon. Kabiru Amadu Mai Palace, assured that his committee would help fast-track regulations to strengthen horse racing and elevate Nigerian sports in general.

“Our aim is to move sports in Nigeria from consumption to production, as envisioned by Mr. President. We will ensure any proposal that enhances sports development receives speedy approval,” he said.

The Etsu of Nupe praised Dikko for representing President Tinubu at recent horse racing events and expressed confidence in the NSC’s support for integrating Nigeria into the global horse racing scene.

“Horse racing is royalty, passed down from our forefathers. With your support, we believe the NHRF will become part of the international horse racing ecosystem,” he affirmed.

NHRF Chairman, Alhaji Tajudeen Aminu Dantata, revealed that after hosting five domestic races this year, the Federation is laying the groundwork for international competitiveness. Their ambition is to participate in global events such as the Dubai World Cup, Saudi Cup, and Irish Derby, with the NSC’s collaboration.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of gift items to the NSC Chairman by the Emir of Zazzau, who commended Dikko for his contributions to Nigerian sports and hailed him as a proud son of the Emirate.

NSC Targets to Boost Sports Weekend Economy with Horse Racing

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