Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria mulls ‘Grade-One’ derby, says Etsu Nupe
By Mohammed Baba Busu
The Etsu Nupe and the Life Patron of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN), Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar says it is planning a ‘Grade-One’ horse racing derby in Nigeria.
He spoke at the ongoing International Horse Racing Derby Themed ‘Renewed Hope Bida 2026’, that commenced on Wednesday, April 29 at the Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar 111 International Race Course, Bida
Abubakar who is also the Chairman, Niger state Council of Traditional Rulers said, “Such derbies attract participants from across the world.
“This is with the same level of prestige as the Royal Ascot, Preakness Stakes, Dubai World Cup, Saudi Cup and the Kentucky Derby.”
The Etsu Nupe further said that the federation was founded in 2019 with the aim of creating a national platform to organise, host and regulate horse racing activities across the country.
According to him, the federation is dedicated to promoting national unity and prosperity by bringing from various regions through a shared passion for equestrian activities.
He said that plausible efforts would be intensified to strengthen the cultural norms and values of the people through sports in other to prevent the cultures and traditions from going to extinct.
Also speaking, Alhaji Sa’idu Umaru, the Lakpene Raba Nupe and the National Treasurer of the federation, said that this year’s event was organized in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He expressed delight that there is a wider participation from across Nigeria and other West African nations, with a myriad of species of horses gallantly partaking in the epochal event.
The National Treasurer further described the 2026 event as evidently unique as all the participants are law-abiding while there is absolute glaring fair play.
He underscored the significance of horse racing in boosting peace, unity and the socio-economic prosperity of the various host communities and the nation at large.
He, therefore, urged more support to horse racing by the Federal Government in view of its nexus to national unity and economy.
Alhaji Umaru further noted that the grand finale that will hold on Saturday will witness the historic attendance of Nigeria’s First Lady, Sen. Remi Tinubu, Wives of Governors, traditional rulers, captains of industry and several other distinguished horse racing enthusiasts from across the nation and Africa.
