About 250 horses, including breeds from Dubai are to participate in the maiden Gwandu emirate horse racing and cultural festival.
The event is scheduled to hold from 18 to 23 November in Birnin Kebbi.
Chief coordinator of the festival, Alhaji Mustapha Usman Adamu (Sarkin Bargu Ka’oje), told newsmen that a trophy – Mallam Abdullahi Fodio Classic Cup – would be competed for.
“The objective of the festival is to showcase and preserve the traditions of the Emirate, promote unity and understanding among the people, provide opportunity for its teeming youths.
“Nigerians and other members of the international community would experience the rich cultural heritage of Gwandu, specifically the emirate’s trades, games and costumes.
“Historically, Gwandu Emirate is known as home for horse racing and a hub for traditional reverence.
“We seek to build on this tradition and open a new chapter in our efforts to promote Kebbi State, and provide opportunities to our local businesses to thrive through increased commerce,” the coordinator said.
The event will feature Mallam Abdullahi Fodio Annual Lecture, agricultural fair, horse racing as well as cultural display and durbar.
The Sarkin Bargu Ka’oje thanked Governor Nasir Idris for providing the necessary wherewithal to stage the festival, extending similar appreciation to the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar for its conceptualisation.