The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy has commended the successful hosting of the Maiden Meridian Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Festival in Hadejia, Jigawa State, describing it as a major boost for Nigeria’s cultural tourism and regional cultural cooperation.
The festival, held from 14 to 17 January 2026 at the Hadejia International Race Course, officially inaugurated the facility and attracted participants and guests from Nigeria and neighbouring countries including Niger Republic, Burkina Faso, Cameroon and Chad.
The event showcased Hadejia as an emerging hub for traditional sports and cultural tourism in West and Central Africa.
Representing the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, MFR, mni, led a Federal Government delegation to the closing ceremony.
He reaffirmed government’s commitment to promoting traditional sports and preserving cultural heritage as tools for tourism development and economic diversification under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Mukhtar praised the organisers for delivering a culturally rich and well-coordinated festival, noting that horse racing in Northern Nigeria reflects deep-rooted traditions, values and identity.
He congratulated the winners and participants, describing the festival as a platform for unity, youth engagement and community pride.
The Royal Father of the Day, HRH Alhaji (Dr) Adamu Abubakar Maje, CON, Emir of Hadejia, thanked guests and stakeholders for supporting the historic Derby and expressed optimism that future editions would be bigger and better.
He announced plans to further develop the Hadejia Race Course into a world-class facility and revealed financial contributions by Ameer Stable and Speedy Stable to support horse racing in the city.
Representing the Executive Governor of Jigawa State, the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Bala Ibrahim, stated that the state government recognises the festival as a driver of tourism growth, youth participation and economic development, and presented a token to the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria in appreciation of its role.
The festival produced new champions, with Mutal Saleh from Niger Republic and Bashir Suleiman of Katsina State emerging winners in the major race categories.
Dr. Mukhtar concluded by conveying the Minister’s goodwill and reaffirming the Ministry’s commitment to expanding Nigeria’s cultural tourism offerings while preserving the nation’s rich heritage.
