Lagos is set to host one of the largest horse racing carnivals in the country, with organisers projecting attendance of more than 30,000 guests at the three-day event.

The organisers disclosed this at a news conference held on Tuesday in Ikeja.

Femi Fashoro, convener of the Lagos Grand Horse Race (LGHR), said the event would attract both local and international horse riders.

He said the event, themed “Racing into the Future”, would be held from September 11 to September 13 at the National Stadium, Surulere.

Mr Fashoro said the carnival was designed to promote youth participation in sports while showcasing Lagos as a leading destination for sports tourism and entertainment.

“This race is about youth and sports development. It has been designed to inspire young people to embrace sports, especially horse racing.

“We have planned extensive coverage across television, radio, print and digital platforms, both locally and internationally, to enhance the visibility of the event.

“The event will further strengthen Lagos’ reputation as a city of innovation capable of hosting world-class sporting and cultural events,” he said.

He said the programme would also feature cultural displays, including a parade of traditional horses and riders from different parts of the country, alongside fashion exhibitions.

Mr Fashoro added that the event would celebrate Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through music, fashion, traditional arts and other cultural activities.

“The race is about building a lasting legacy by showcasing Nigerian and Lagos culture on the global stage through fashion, music and traditional displays.

“Guests will also enjoy traditional music and dance performances, crafts, artworks and local delicacies in a vibrant cultural atmosphere,” he said.

According to him, more than 100 horses are expected to participate in the competition through collaborations with polo clubs across Lagos.

He added that horses would also be available for intending riders to rent at affordable rates, while winners of the competition would receive cash prizes.

Also speaking, Bopo Oyekan, permanent secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, reaffirmed the state government’s support for the initiative.

Ms Oyekan, represented by Toheed Dosumu, director of administration and human resources, said horse racing has a long history in Lagos, dating back to 1904 when British naval officers introduced the sport.

“Although horse racing has traditionally been regarded as an elite sport, the organisers have created opportunities for everyone to participate, which is why the Lagos State Government is supporting the initiative.

“The government is committed to ensuring the success of the event because it will significantly boost tourism, culture and the economy. The carnival is designed to combine horse racing with music, fashion, food and cultural exhibitions, making it a major tourism attraction,” she said.

She added that the event would further strengthen Lagos’ status as Africa’s leading destination for sports and cultural tourism.

“The horse race carnival will create economic opportunities for hotels, restaurants, transport operators, artisans, tour guides and other local businesses through increased visitor spending,” Ms Oyekan said. 

(NAN)