By Zakari Haruna
Kaduna, Nigeria — The Nigeria Horse Racing Federation has made a formal appeal to the National Sports Commission for recognition, as the Sahel Savannah Series drew to an energetic close on Saturday in Kaduna.
Speaking at the event, the Financial Secretary of the Federation, Sa’idu Umar, expressed pride over the progression and impact of the series. “Alhamdulillah, the tournament ended successfully,” Umar announced. “It started in around November, December. Then we proceeded to Yola. That was the second leg, the Sahel Savannah Series. Then the third leg held at Gumel, the fourth at Zaria, and today we witnessed the finale.”
According to Umar, the series saw significant growth in participation and standards. “When the race started in Bida, we had less than 100 horses. But today, at the ground finale, more than 200 horses participated. So it is indeed a great improvement,” he said.
Beyond numbers, Umar noted strides in fair play, sportsmanship, horse welfare, and audience engagement—an indicator that horse racing is gaining traction as a legitimate sport across Nigeria’s northern regions.
The Federation is now calling for official endorsement from national authorities. Umar emphasized that recognition by the National Sports Commission would help consolidate the gains made and attract investment and training opportunities to develop the sport further.
With Kaduna hosting a memorable finale, attention turns to the future of horse racing in Nigeria. Organizers and fans alike hope the momentum generated by the Sahel Savannah Series will spark broader support for equestrian sports and embed it firmly into the national sports calendar
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