Over 250 horses from seven countries will compete in the Gwandu Emirate Horse Racing and Cultural Festival in November 2024.

The inaugural Gwandu Emirate Annual Horse Racing and Cultural Festival is set to take place in Birnin Kebbi from November 18 to 23, 2024.

This much-anticipated event is expected to attract over 250 horses from seven countries, including Niger Republic, Benin Republic, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Ghana, alongside local competitors.

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The festival aims to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of the Gwandu Emirate while fostering unity and promoting business opportunities.

Alhaji Mustapha Usma-Adamu, Sarkin Bargun Ka’oje and Chief Coordinator of the festival, shared details with journalists in Birnin Kebbi.

He stated that the festival is part of the emirate’s contribution to the administration of Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, in a bid to leave lasting legacies.

Usma-Adamu emphasised that the event aims to showcase the emirate’s traditions, unite its people, and offer a platform for Nigerian and international participants to experience the unique cultural offerings of the Gwandu Emirate.

The festival will feature a series of events, including the prestigious Malam Abdullahi Fodio Annual Lecture, an Agricultural Fair, cultural displays, a Durbar, and the highly anticipated horse racing competition.

The lecture will focus on important contemporary topics and will also include an exhibition of rare works by Mallam Abdullahi Fodio.

Meanwhile, the Agricultural Fair will provide farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs with opportunities to share knowledge and access new tools and services.

One of the key highlights of the festival will be the Durbar, a grand procession showcasing traditional horsemanship. Spectators will witness an impressive display of royal cavalrymen and horse riders adorned in elaborate traditional regalia. The Hottingo Fulani cultural display will also make a notable appearance at the event.

The horse racing competition, the festival’s main attraction, promises to be a thrilling contest. Riders and horses from across Nigeria and Africa will compete for seven trophies, with enticing prizes on offer. The event underscores Gwandu Emirate’s long-standing tradition as a hub for horse racing and a place of historical significance.

Speaking on the significance of the event, Usma-Adamu explained, “We seek to build on our rich tradition and create opportunities for business growth. The festival will not only promote unity within the emirate but also attract tourists and sports enthusiasts from around the world.”

The Emir Muhammad Ilyasu Bashar Race Course in Birnin Kebbi will undergo a makeover to provide a suitable setting for the festival. Usma-Adamu extended an invitation to Nigerians and international visitors alike, encouraging them to attend the event and witness the remarkable cultural displays and equestrian competitions.

In a statement issued by Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Usma-Adamu acknowledged the Emir of Gwandu, Maj. Gen. Muhammad Ilyasu Bashar (Rtd), for his visionary leadership in bringing the festival to life. He also expressed gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris for his unwavering support.