Seven Countries to Join Gwandu Emirate Horse Racing, Cultural Festival

At least 250 horses from over seven different countries are anticipated to take part in the inaugural Gwandu Emirate Annual Horse Racing and Cultural Festival, set to occur on November 18, 2024.

The competition is scheduled to take place in Birnin Kebbi from November 18 to 23, 2024, and will include a variety of events such as the Malam Abdullahi Fodio Annual Lecture, an Agricultural Fair, cultural displays, a Durbar, and a horse racing competition.

While speaking to journalists in Birnin Kebbi, Alhaji Mustapha Usma-Adamu, the Sarkin Bargun Ka’oje and Chief Coordinator of the event, stated that the anticipated competitors will come from countries such as Niger Republic, Benin Republic, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, and Ghana, among others.

He noted that the event is part of the emirate’s contribution to the government of Dr. Nasir Idris, the Governor of Kebbi State, “to enable the governor leave behind lasting legacies in our dear state.”

Usma-Adamu stated that the festival aims to showcase and preserve the traditions of the Gwandu Emirate, foster unity and understanding among its people, and offer an opportunity for the vibrant youth, other Nigerians, and members of the international community to experience the emirate’s rich cultural heritage, particularly its trades, games, and costumes.

The chief coordinator further mentioned that historically, the Gwandu Emirate has been recognized as a center for horse racing and a place of traditional reverence, adding that the event also aims to create opportunities for business growth.

“We seek to build on this tradition and open a new chapter in our efforts to promote Kebbi State, and also seek to provide opportunities for our businesses to thrive through increased commerce during the festival, as we anticipate a large influx of people.”

“It is also our intention to promote unity and understanding within the emirate, while offering an opportunity for our youth, Nigerians, and indeed lovers of tourism and sportsmanship around the world to witness our rich cultural heritage.”

“This festival will provide a world-class horse racing competition, attracting participants from across Nigeria and other African nations,” he said.

He also mentioned that the Mallam Abdullahi Fodio Annual Lecture will feature thought-provoking discussions on relevant topics, along with an exhibition showcasing rare works by Mallam Abdullahi Fodio.

Usma-Adamu highlighted that the Agricultural Fair would provide an interactive platform for farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs to share ideas and gain access to a range of inputs and services.

Regarding the Cultural Displays and Durbar, he explained that it would give spectators the chance to experience traditional games, trades, and crafts that are unique to the Gwandu Emirate.

“A grand display of horsemanship featuring royal cavalrymen and horse riders dressed in elaborate traditional regalia. The Hottingo Fulani cultural display will also be part of the event to feature this year.”

“Horse Racing is the main event in this festival, exciting equestrian competition featuring the finest horses and riders. A total of Seven trophies will be contested for, with enticing prizes on offer.”

“The Gwandu Emirate Council has scheduled the festival to take place from the 18th to the 23rd of November, 2024, at the Emir Muhammad Ilyasu Bashar Race Course in Birnin Kebbi. 

“The venue will be remodelled to a befitting setting for this historic event. I therefore extend a warm invitation to Nigerians and other nationals to join us in Birnin Kebbi for the maiden edition of the Gwandu Emirate Annual Horse Racing and Cultural Festival,” he added.

In a statement from Ahmed Idris, Chief Press Secretary to the Kebbi Governor, Usma-Adamu praised the Emir of Gwandu, Maj. Gen. Muhammad Ilyasu Bashar (Rtd), for his visionary role in conceptualizing the festival and for providing his fatherly support to ensure its success.

The Coordinator also expressed gratitude to the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr. Nasir Idris, for his strong support in ensuring the success of the program.

Oluchi Okwuego