Lagos State is gearing up to turn the Lagos Grand Horse Race (LGHR) into a major draw for both tourism and local business, with organisers forecasting attendance of more than 30,000 people for a three-day horse-racing festival that will blend sport with culture, entertainment and trade.
Lagos Grand Horse Race set for 2026 at National Stadium
The three-day carnival, themed “Racing into the Future,” is scheduled to run from September 11 to September 13, 2026, at the National Stadium in Surulere. Organisers say the event is designed to serve as a springboard for sports tourism, youth participation and the promotion of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, while also opening up fresh income streams across hospitality, transport and the creative sector.
Organisers outline youth focus, global media push
Speaking at a press briefing held on Tuesday at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Lagos State Secretariat, Alausa, the Convener of the Lagos Grand Horse Race, Femi Fashoro, said the festival will bring together both local and international horse riders and help present Lagos as a city able to host top-tier sporting and cultural occasions.
- More than 30,000 visitors are expected over the three days.
- The race is aimed at inspiring young people to take part in sport, with a particular emphasis on horse racing.
- Organisers plan broad media coverage across television, radio, print and digital channels, both within Nigeria and internationally.
- The visibility, organisers believe, will elevate Lagos’s international profile as an innovation hub capable of staging world-class events.
Fashoro also stressed that the carnival will go beyond the track by highlighting Nigeria’s cultural variety through a parade featuring traditional horse riders from different parts of the country. The programme will include fashion displays, music, dance, arts showcases and local cuisine for guests.
Horses, prizes and support from Lagos State
He said the competition is expected to involve more than 100 horses, supported through partnerships with polo clubs across Lagos. Organisers also plan to make horses available for prospective riders to rent at affordable rates, while winners across the various categories will receive cash prizes.
Backing for the initiative was echoed by Permanent Secretary Bopo Oyekan, representing the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture. She was represented at the briefing by the ministry’s Director of Administration and Human Resources, Toheed Dosumu. Oyekan said the government is supporting the project because of its ability to stimulate tourism and generate economic activity.
Oyekan pointed to the sport’s long-standing presence in Lagos, recalling that horse racing dates back to 1904 when the activity was introduced by British naval officers. She added that the carnival is being reshaped into an inclusive event that welcomes residents and visitors alike.
- Horse racing is rooted in Lagos history, dating to 1904.
- Although often viewed as an elite pastime, organisers are creating participation opportunities for a wider audience.
- The government believes the event will deliver a strong boost to tourism, culture and the wider economy.
- The carnival blends racing with music, fashion, food and cultural exhibitions to attract visitors.
- It is expected to strengthen Lagos’s standing as a leading destination for sports and cultural tourism in Africa.
Oyekan further said the festival will generate business prospects across the hospitality and services chain, including hotels, restaurants, transport operators, artisans, tour guides and other local enterprises, driven by increased spending from visitors.
