The Etsu Nupe and Chairman of Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, Dr. Yahaya Abubakar, has assured of efforts to strengthen the cultural norms and values of the people through sports.
The monarch made the remarks at the yearly horse racing tournament, organised by the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria held in the Bida council area of the state.
He said this became necessary to save cultures and traditions from extinction, adding that the fiesta, which is traditional, is further providing an opportunity for the display of cultures as various cultural activities were on display.
The royal father, who described horse racing as a historic event, expressed joy that it was fast gaining acceptance in the emirate.
He urged his subjects to take full advantage of the economic opportunities of horse racing, especially as riders from other states and countries were participating in the epochal event, noting that the sport, which portrays that animals can be controlled, could promote cohesiveness and the diverse beautiful cultures on the continent.
The monarch had acknowledged the diligent planning and execution of the event, saying: “It encourages sportsmanship and bolsters unity of the country, Africa and the world.
“This event also boosts the socio-economic development of Bida, Niger and Nigeria as a whole. We will sustain this enviable feat.”
In his remarks, Niger State Governor, Muhammad Umaru-Bago, said with unity of purpose, the federation could work better for all.
The Emir of Lafiagi in Kwara State, Alhaji Mohammed Kudu-Kawu, described the event as a veritable tool for uniting various traditional institutions.
He described the event as one of the age-long pastimes and rich cultural heritages of the people, commending Etsu Nupe and the Sarkin Dawakin for a successful outing.
A traditional ruler from Umuahia, Abia State, Eze Sheikh Abdulfatai Chima-Eze, the Emetoma III, emphasised that the tournament was promoting national unity and excitement.
Earlier, the Coordinator, National Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria and Sarkin Dawaki Nupe, Alhaji Abubakar Mustapha-Bida, said more measures were being taken to domesticate the competition in all parts of the country.
Mustapha-Bida, who is also the Chairman, New Niger Development Project said that the event was organised to mark the one-year anniversary of President Bola Tinubu’s administration and themed, “Renewed Hope.”
