At least 30,000 local and international visitors are expected to descend on Lagos for the inaugural Lagos Grand Horse Race as the state government ramps up plans to grow tourism, highlight cultural entertainment and generate fresh economic activity.
The three-day programme, tagged “Race Into the Future,” is set for September 11 to 13 at the National Stadium in Surulere.
Speaking during a media briefing, Mrs. Oloruntoyin Oyekan-Ismaila, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, said the event fits with the Sanwo-Olu administration’s approach of using sport, culture and entertainment to deepen tourism and support wider economic development.
Representing the ministry, Taoreed Dosunmu, Director of Administration and Human Resources, said Oyekan-Ismaila believes the race will help put Lagos on the global tourism map while also opening up business prospects for residents and investors.
She added that the festival will bring together horse racing with live music, fashion, food, cultural showcases and fundraising activities, creating a distinctive experience for attendees.
Oyekan-Ismaila said the event is forecast to raise demand across the tourism and hospitality network, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transport providers, tour operators, artists and other businesses tied to visitor spending.
“The Lagos Grand Horse Race will deliver a major lift for tourism, culture and the economy. It will also strengthen destination branding and reaffirm Lagos’ standing as Africa’s top location for sports and cultural events,” she said.
She further noted that the initiative demonstrates the state’s determination to broaden its tourism calendar through fresh programmes and well-structured public-private partnerships.
Earlier, Femi Fasoro, the convener and founder of the Lagos Grand Horse Race, described the event as a vehicle for youth involvement, sports growth and the preservation of Nigeria’s deep equestrian traditions.
Fasoro said roughly 100 horses are expected to take part, with traditional horsemen from different parts of the country featuring in both competitive races and cultural displays.
He explained that, beyond the racing action, the festival will also spotlight fashion, culture and entertainment, while encouraging national togetherness and generating jobs and commercial opportunities for young people.
Fasoro said the overall plan is meant to renew public interest in horse racing and help position Lagos as a leading centre for equestrian sport across Africa.
