News Investigators/ President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s horse, “Renewed Hope,” has emerged as the overall winner at the end of the Hadejia International Horse Racing Competition.
Renewed Hope clinched the first position after maintaining her winning streak as the fastest horse on the African circuit.
The competition, which successfully concluded in Hadejia, Jigawa State, attracted horses, jockeys, trainers and officials from within and outside Nigeria.
The event marked another milestone in the development of horse racing in the country.
Speaking at the grand finale, the National Chairman of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria (HRFN), Tajuddeen Dantata, said the outstanding performance of “Renewed Hope” had positioned Nigeria for stronger representation on the global horse racing stage.
Mr Dantata said the victory demonstrated the horse’s capacity to compete with top international horses, adding that arrangements are ongoing for her to represent Nigeria at the forthcoming Dubai World Cup.
“This record-breaking performance by the Renewed Hope horse shows clearly that she has the strength, speed and endurance to race with top horses at the Dubai World Cup next season,” he said.
According to him, it has remained the target of the HRFN to ensure Nigeria becomes the first African country to participate competitively in the Dubai International Horse Racing Competition.
He said consultations are ongoing with the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Sports Commission and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Embassy in Nigeria to secure all relevant clearances for Nigeria’s participation.
The HRFN chairman described Hadejia as a historic hub of horsemanship and cultural heritage, noting that hosting the race in the ancient town is a tribute to Jigawa state’s rich equestrian traditions.
“Hadejia and its surroundings are steeped in history and tradition. For centuries, the people of this region have celebrated horsemanship, valour and endurance,” Dantata said.
He added that the event reflected the federation’s commitment to expanding the sport, promoting local talent, creating economic opportunities and encouraging youth participation.
Mr Dantata said the federation had, in recent years, strengthened governance, improved race organisation, expanded training programmes and enhanced veterinary and safety standards.
“These efforts have raised the profile of horse racing in Nigeria and created opportunities for breeders, trainers and young talents to excel,” he added.
The Life President of the federation and Etsu Nupe, Alhaji Yahaya Abubakar, described horse racing as more than a sport, but a tradition built on discipline, respect, courage and partnership between horses and riders.
He said the Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Season 2025/2026 marked a defining chapter in efforts to reposition Nigerian horse racing with dignity and purpose on regional and international platforms.
“The Renewed Hope is not just a theme; it is a commitment to the future of the sport,” he said.
Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), said the event had helped revived cultural heritage in Northern Nigeria.
Mr Namadi pledged the state government’s continued support for horse racing activities, describing the sport as a tool for cultural preservation and youth engagement.
The National Coordinator of the event, Alhaji Mustapha Abubakar Bida, who is also the Sarkin Dawaki Nupe, said the competition was aimed at honouring tradition while providing a well-coordinated platform for jockeys, trainers, owners and officials.
They said the Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Derby emphasised structure, mentorship and gradual talent development, particularly for young jockeys.
The Sarkin Dawaki Nupe disclosed that five countries, including Cameroon, Chad, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, participated in the competition as international partners.
The Minister of Culture and Tourism, (name??), represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, (name??), assured stakeholders of the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting cultural development and traditional sports across Northern Nigeria and the country at large.
At the end of the competition, “Renewed Hope,” owned by President Bola Tinubu, emerged first overall, clinching a car prize and retaining her position as the fastest horse in Africa.
The horse, born and raised in Bida, Niger State, about two and a half years ago, was sired by a thoroughbred stallion and out of a Sudanese mare.
In all, six cars were won at the event, including the one clinched by Tinubu’s horse.
Tinubu’s Cup, titled “Royal Champion,” alongside a car, was won by a horse from Burkina Faso and presented to the winner by the SSG, who represented the governor.
The event was attended by the Emirs of Kazaure, Dutse, Ringim, Bade, Machina and Nguru, as well as other prominent personalities.
