The chairman of HRFN Tajuddeen Dantata, stated this in a statement issued in Minna on Wednesday.He said the Derby is scheduled to take place from Wednesday, 29 April to Saturday, 2 May 2026 at the Sultan Sa’ad Abubakar III International Racecourse, Bida, Niger state.
He said, “the highly anticipated Derby is organised in honour of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu which forms part of a broader national initiative aimed at promoting unity, youth engagement, cultural heritage, and socio-economic development through sport”.
He explained that the event is expected to attract wide participation from across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, including Cameroon, Chad, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger Republic, and Senegal.
“Participants will include elite stables, professional jockeys, and equestrian enthusiasts, competing across multiple race categories in what promises to be a thrilling display of speed, discipline, and horsemanship”, he said.
He said that the Finale is scheduled for Saturday, 2nd May 2026 (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM), adding that it would be graced by the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu alongside Governors from across Northern Nigeria, first-class traditional rulers, captains of industry, and other distinguished stakeholders.
“The upcoming Bida Derby is projected to host over 100,000 spectators, with an estimated media reach exceeding 2 million viewers per broadcast”, he explained.
The Renewed Hope International Horse Racing Derby remains a flagship platform for celebrating Nigeria’s rich equestrian heritage while positioning the sport for global competitiveness.
