Horse Racing Revival in Borno Emirate: A Celebration of Cultural Heritage

In a grand display of equine excellence, a horse racing competition was organized by President Bola Tinubu’s Senior Special Assistant on Administration and Office Coordination, Dr. Usman Mohammed-Shettima, to celebrate the Shehu of Borno, Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi’s daughters’ wedding ceremony. The competition, which took place on Saturday at 4pm, was a grand affair, commencing after the marriage solemnization at Ramat Square.

The event was attended by various dignitaries, including the Shehu of Borno, Mai Hassan Ibn Ahmad, Mai Aririyu of Chad Republic, district heads, and other traditional title holders. The competition symbolized a revival of the community’s rich traditions, with a total of one million and five hundred thousand naira allocated for the first, second, and third-place winners.

Bazannah Kakaje, the representative of the Turb Club and the Lawan of Fezzan ward in Maiduguri, described the competition as “the first of its kind in recent years.” He commended Dr. Usman for rejuvenating the historic horse racing tradition that used to be a hallmark of the Borno Emirate, adding that the competition should be organized quarterly to enrich the cultural heritage of the emirate.

The celebrants expressed happiness over their victories, describing the race as an encouragement from the sponsor to support youth programs, thereby uniting the youths in the state. The competition has brought together people from various parts of Maiduguri, fostering a sense of unity and cultural pride within the Borno Emirate.

As the horse racing tradition continues to thrive, it is clear that Dr. Usman’s initiative has not only revived a historic practice but has also brought the community together, celebrating their rich cultural heritage.