Katsina Times
The 2025/2026 International Horse Racing Tournament has concluded in Katsina State, marking a major sporting and cultural event that brought together horse owners and riders from across Nigeria and neighbouring African countries.
The four-day tournament, organised under the leadership of Dr. Lawal Adamu Doguru in collaboration with the National Horse Racing Association, was held in Doguru town, Mashi Local Government Area of Katsina State. It officially ended on Saturday, January 3, 2026. The Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umar Radda, was represented at the closing ceremony by the Director-General of AUDA-NEPAD, Hon. Jabiru Abdullahi Tsauri, who formally declared the event closed.
The competition attracted wide participation from horse owners and stable managers from Katsina State, other parts of Nigeria, and neighbouring countries, including the Republic of Niger and Cameroon. Observers said the turnout underscored the tournament’s growing importance in promoting traditional sports and strengthening regional integration within West Africa.
Several horses distinguished themselves in different categories during the competition. Among the standout performers were Madubi and Diamond, both owned by Dr. Lawal Adamu Doguru, which won cars in some of the major races held before thousands of spectators, including senior government officials and representatives of traditional institutions.
In the fifth and final race, Dan Zaki, owned by the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura, emerged winner, securing a brand-new car and a trophy. Badauri, also owned by Rt. Hon. Daura, finished second, while Miltao from Speedy Stable, Niger State, placed third. Zarah, owned by Tajudeen Dan Tata from Kano State, came fourth.
Organisers said prizes awarded during the tournament included cars, trophies, and cash rewards. The overall winner received a car, while the second, third, and fourth positions were rewarded with ₦1 million, ₦600,000, and ₦400,000 respectively. Other participants also received various prizes across different race categories.
The closing ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including the Speaker of the Katsina State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Nasir Yahaya Daura; his deputy, Rt. Hon. Abdul Jalal Haruna Runka; and the Emir of Katsina, Alhaji Abdulmumini Kabir Usman, who was represented by the Durbin Katsina and District Head of Mani, Alhaji Umar Babani.
Also in attendance were the member of the House of Representatives for Mashi/Dutsi Federal Constituency, Hon. Salisu Yusuf Majigiri; the Governor’s Special Adviser on Political Matters, Rt. Hon. Ya’u Umar Gwajo; as well as other senior government officials, community leaders, and guests from within and outside Katsina State.
Analysts noted that the successful hosting of the 2025/2026 international horse racing tournament further highlights the Katsina State Government’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage, promoting sports tourism, and strengthening unity among African communities through traditional sporting activities.
