The Coordinator of Renewed Hope Horse Racing, Abubakar Dangi Mustapha (Sarki Dawaki Nupe), has announced that Nigeria’s horse racing scene is set for a historic moment with the start of its national competition next month.
Speaking on NTA AM Sports Programme via Zoom on Tuesday, Mustapha revealed that preparations are in full swing to make horse racing a truly national sport, with competitions now being expanded beyond the northern regions to include participants from across the country.
“We are committed to making horse racing accessible to all Nigerians,” Mustapha said. “Our goal is to organize events nationwide and ensure full participation from every region.”
He highlighted the rapid growth of the sport, noting, “Two years ago, horse racing was mostly a local affair. Today, we have strengthened and expanded it significantly. Last year alone, we hosted seven major races with participants from across West Africa — a major leap from races being limited to a few states.”
Mustapha also emphasized Nigeria’s historic ambitions on the global stage. “This December, we will open a new season, and we have applied for Nigeria to compete in the Dubai World Cup. If approved, Nigeria will become the first African country to participate — a remarkable milestone for the nation.”
Horse racing in Nigeria has gained increased federal recognition in recent years. The Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria is in the final stages of official approval, after which elections will be conducted, aligning it with other national sports federations. Mustapha confirmed that consultations with the National Sports Commission are ongoing and final clearance is expected soon.
A major development driving the sport’s growth is the breeding of local hybrid horses. Previously reliant on imports from Argentina, Sudan, Niger, and Cameroon, Nigeria now boasts the “Niger Breed” — horses born and bred locally with the strength to compete internationally. This marks the first time in over 60 years that Nigeria has produced a homegrown breed capable of racing on the world stage.
Horse racing is also contributing to economic growth. Currently, 300–500 horses are professionally managed nationwide, with events attracting hundreds to thousands of spectators over two-week periods. These competitions boost local economies through hotels, markets, and city commerce while fostering cultural exchange among participants from multiple countries.
Mustapha emphasized the sport’s inclusivity: “While horse ownership requires investment, the sport and its entertainment are open to all. About 90–95% of our spectators are ordinary Nigerians.”
With the Niger Breed gaining international recognition, Nigeria has applied through multilateral channels for a spot in the Dubai World Cup, potentially marking a historic first for Africa and positioning the nation as an emerging hub for horse breeding and racing on par with global leaders like Argentina.
