A jockey from the Republic of Niger, Muhammad Muhtari, riding Bindigau, has emerged winner of the feature event on the second day of the International Horse Racing Derby in Zaria, Kaduna State.
Muhtari defeated 13 other jockeys to win Race No. 12, Division V – Arewa Niger Republic Maiden (7F–1400m). The race was organised in honour of the late Yahaya Isah. Muhtari received a trophy and a cash prize of N400,000 for the victory.
The winning horse, Bindigau, is owned by Shamsu Magarya of Niger Republic. Babangida Bagy, riding Dan Halal of S.D. Stable, Niger State, finished second and received N200,000.
In another event, Dan Iddi of Katsina State won Race No. 10, Division III – Talon Maiden (6F–1200m). Iddi completed the race in less than one minute and 32 seconds to claim a trophy and N400,000 prize money.
10 races were contested on the second day of the derby, themed “Renewed Hope Zaria 2026”. The annual competition, organised by the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN), attracted jockeys, horse owners and enthusiasts from across Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries.
Speaking at the event, HRFN president Mustapha Abubakar-Bida, said the derby had continued to promote horse racing and preserve a cherished cultural heritage. He said the competition also serves as a platform for strengthening cooperation among participants from different countries.
Also speaking, the Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli, described the event as successful and commended the large turnout of participants and spectators. He said the presence of visitors from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries reflected the peaceful atmosphere in Zaria and the country.
Bamalli added that the high turnout demonstrated the popularity of horse racing among the people. Highlights of the event included the presentation of trophies and cash prizes to winners in the various race categories.
