Remi Tinubu Hails Northern Derby as Symbol of Culture, Unity and Sporting Excellence

The First Lady of Nigeria, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has praised the Northern Derby for its role in preserving the nation’s rich cultural heritage while promoting horse racing and equestrian sports across the region.

Speaking at the 44th edition of the Northern Derby held in Zaria, Kaduna State, Tinubu described the annual event as a powerful celebration of Nigeria’s identity, history and traditions.

Represented by the Wife of the Vice-President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, the First Lady said the derby had evolved beyond a sporting competition into a platform that unites people from different backgrounds through a shared appreciation of culture and excellence.

The event, organised by the Premier International Horse Racing Company in partnership with the Northern Nigeria Turf Club Authority (NNTCA) and the Zaria Turf Club, attracted participants and spectators from across Nigeria and neighbouring West African countries.

Tinubu commended the Northern Nigeria Turf Club Authority for its consistent efforts in safeguarding one of the country’s most treasured cultural and sporting traditions.

According to her, the competition not only showcases outstanding horsemanship but also preserves a legacy that has been handed down through generations.

She noted that the Northern Derby has become a respected symbol of culture, history and unity, bringing together traditional rulers, horse racing enthusiasts, community leaders and competitors from Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

The First Lady paid tribute to the late Sir Ahmadu Bello, the Sardauna of Sokoto and former Premier of Northern Nigeria, for his vision in promoting cultural values and fostering unity through institutions such as the Northern Nigeria Turf Club Authority.

She further applauded the organisers for sustaining an event that creates opportunities for young people in sports, entrepreneurship, cultural engagement and community development.

Tinubu urged Nigerians to continue supporting traditional institutions, describing them as vital partners in strengthening peace, social harmony and national cohesion.

She also congratulated winners of the various categories, including the recipient of the First Lady’s Trophy, expressing confidence that the Northern Derby would continue to enhance Zaria’s reputation and contribute to Nigeria’s cultural and sporting development.

Earlier, the Emir of Zazzau and President of the Northern Nigeria Turf Club Authority, Alhaji Ahmed Bamalli, called for increased government and private sector investment in horse racing and equestrian sports.

Bamalli described Zaria as a historic centre of culture, learning and administration, adding that equestrian traditions remain an important reflection of Northern Nigeria’s heritage and values.

He recalled that the late Sir Ahmadu Bello established the Northern Nigeria Turf Club Authority in 1962 to harness the social, cultural and economic benefits of horse racing.

The emir appealed to the National Sports Commission to grant official recognition to horse racing as a national sport and urged corporate organisations, financial institutions and other stakeholders to support turf clubs through strategic partnerships and corporate social responsibility initiatives.

The colourful event concluded with the presentation of trophies, cash rewards and vehicles to outstanding performers in various categories, further cementing the Northern Derby’s status as one of the region’s most celebrated cultural and sporting spectacles.