The northwest state of Katsina has secured approval to host ‘Africa’s first Equestrian City’ that will feature world-class facilities, including a National Grand Durbar ground, horse racing tracks.
The city is also expected to have facilities such as: an Academy, a Polo Recreation Club, as well as serve as West Africa’s first International Mounted Games Headquarters, when developed.
The information was contained in a statement issued by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Dikko Umaru Radda, which was made available to BusinessDay, Friday, in Katsina.
The decision of the state to host the facility was said to be coming on the backdrop of a recent meeting between Governor Radda and the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko.
“The multibillion-naira project, a landmark initiative for northern Nigeria, was formalized during subsequent discussions involving the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa; the Chairman of National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and the Executive Director of Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, Kabir Ali Masanawa”, the statement disclosed.
Reacting to this development, Governor Radda maintained that the Equestrian City will strengthen the Government commitment to harnessing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage while creating sustainable economic opportunities for the people of Katsina and the northern region at large, the statement said.
The world-class facility will feature the National Grand Durbar, horse racing tracks, an Equestrian Academy, a Polo Club, and West Africa’s first International Mounted Games Headquarters.
Additionally, the city will incorporate Contemporary Art Villas and Duplexes designed to showcase Arewa Culture.
“Governor Radda’s visionary leadership has secured a transformative project that will create thousands of jobs and position Katsina as a global destination for equestrian excellence,” noted Dr. Masanawa following the approval. The statement concluded.
