Cyril Ogar

The Coordinator of Renewed Hope Horse Racing, Abubakar Dangi Mustapha (Sarki Dawaki Nupe), has announced that Nigeria is on the verge of making history as the first African nation to compete in the prestigious Dubai World Cup Horse Racing event.

Speaking on NTA AM Sports Programme via Zoom on Tuesday, Mustapha said that consultations and documentation with the National Sports Commission are ongoing to ensure that horse racing in Nigeria is formally recognized as a federation with an elected board.
“We are committed to making horse racing a truly national sport, accessible to all Nigerians,” Mustapha stated. “Our goal is to expand competitions nationwide, beyond the northern regions, and ensure participation from across the country.”

He highlighted the remarkable growth of Nigerian horse racing, noting, “Two years ago, horse racing was mostly a local affair. Today, we have strengthened and expanded the sport. Last year, we hosted seven major races featuring participants from across West Africa — a major leap from races being limited to a few states.

“This December, we open a new season, and we have applied for Nigeria to compete in the Dubai World Cup. If approved, Nigeria will make history as the first African country to participate — a true milestone for the nation.”

Historically a largely local sport, horse racing and equestrian activities in Nigeria have gained increased federal recognition in recent years. Mustapha revealed that 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.

“Nigeria has worked closely with the National Sports Commission over the past year,” Mustapha explained. “After several meetings and the submission of all required documents, we are awaiting final clearance to conduct elections.”

A key development in Nigeria’s rise is the breeding of hybrid horses locally. Previously, the country relied on imports from Argentina, Sudan, Niger, and Cameroon. Today, the federation has developed the “Niger Breed” — horses born and bred in Nigeria with the strength and endurance to compete internationally. This marks the first time in over 60 years that Nigeria has produced a local breed capable of competing on the global stage.

Horse racing is now driving economic growth, with professional training and management of 300–500 horses nationwide. Events attract hundreds to thousands of spectators over two-week periods, boosting local economies through hospitality, markets, and city commerce. Beyond the economic impact, the sport fosters cultural exchange, drawing participants and spectators from multiple countries.

Mustapha emphasized that horse racing is inclusive: “While ownership requires investment, our events and entertainment are open to all. About 90–95% of spectators are ordinary Nigerians.”

With the creation of the Niger Breed and Nigeria’s growing international presence, the federation has applied through multilateral channels to secure a spot in the Dubai World Cup Horse Racing. Approval will mark a historic first for Africa, positioning Nigeria as a rising hub for horse breeding and trading on par with countries like Argentina.

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