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By Mustapha Yauri
The Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN) says the successful staging of the 2026 International Horse Racing Derby in Zaria has reinforced the city’s position as a historic centre of the sport.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the three-day derby also showcased the growing competitiveness of locally bred horses.
Alhaji Mustapha-Abubakar Bida, National Coordinator of HRFN, made the disclosure on the sidelines of the event in Zaria on Sunday.
Bida said the event recorded remarkable improvements over previous editions held in Bida, Hadejia, Katsina and Kaduna, attracting more participants, horses and international attention.
He said the derby marked the second consecutive year of racing in Zaria after a 14-year break, describing it as a significant step towards restoring the ancient city’s status as Nigeria’s traditional horse racing hub.
According to him, about 250 horses from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries participated, surpassing the 200 horses that featured in the federation’s previous competition in Bida.
“Riders and jockeys from Niger Republic, Chad, Cameroon and Burkina Faso also took part, reflecting growing confidence in Nigeria’s horse racing industry.
“The event rekindled fond memories for residents of Zaria and horse racing enthusiasts nationwide.
“It has demonstrated the federation’s commitment to reviving and modernising horse racing activities,” Bida said.
He noted that several young horses produced under the federation’s breeding programme competed successfully and demonstrated qualities comparable to internationally recognised breeds.
Bida added that Nigerian-bred horses now possess strength and endurance comparable to imports from Argentina, Sudan and Chad, but adapt better to the tropical climate and can remain productive for up to 10 years.
The coordinator highlighted the federation’s development of a horse racing starting gate, describing it as the first of its kind in Africa.
He said the innovation had improved race organisation, enhanced fairness and aligned Nigerian racing with global standards.
Bida commended the National Sports Commission and President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda for supporting horse racing development, and lauded the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr Tajudeen Abbas, for facilitating plans to construct a new pavilion and race track at Mohammed Aminu Square.
Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli, represented by the District Head of Makera, Shehu Aliyu-Dansidi, described participation in the Renewed Hope Zaria 2026 Derby as the highest witnessed in the area in four decades.
He commended HRFN for introducing the starting gate, saying it would improve standards and international recognition of the sport.
NAN reports that six saloon cars, cash prizes and trophies were won during the competition.
A major highlight was jockey Ibrahim Dan-Barde’s victory aboard Lailatul Qadir in Race No. 20, Division IV Naija Breed Open.
The horse, owned by S.D Stable of Niger, earned a trophy and one of the cars.
According to HRFN results announcer, Bello Minanata, Lailatul Qadir has now won eight saloon cars in different competitions nationwide. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Muhammad Lawal
