FG moves to harness horse racing for economic expansion, national security – Nigerian NewsDirect – Breaking News in Nigeria

The Federal Government has announced plans to tap into the economic and security potential embedded in Nigeria’s emerging horse racing industry.

The Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, disclosed this in Abuja while receiving the Chairman of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria, Alhaji Tajudeen Aminu Dantata, and his delegation on a courtesy visit.

The Minister praised the Federation’s renewed efforts to unlock value within the horse racing ecosystem, stating that the push aligns with government priorities for economic expansion and national stability.

He noted that innovative sectors capable of creating jobs, attracting investment, and engaging young people meaningfully are critical to strengthening internal security.

Dr Tunji-Ojo explained that modernising the industry through technology, tokenisation and asset monetisation could open new revenue streams and reduce youths’ susceptibility to harmful ideologies.

He stressed that “only an ideology can counter an ideology,” adding that economic empowerment remains one of government’s most potent tools for building a safer society.

He assured the Federation of the Ministry’s readiness to provide a secure business environment for the industry to thrive.

He said normalising and broadening the nation’s economic ecosystem remained a national priority and added that “it is never too late to start something fresh” when the initiative holds long-term developmental benefits for the country.

Dr Tunji-Ojo concluded by expressing full confidence in the partnership, pledging close collaboration with the Horse Racing Federation as both institutions work towards enhanced security, national prosperity and sustainable economic growth.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Horse Racing Federation of Nigeria, Alhaji Tajudeen Aminu Dantata, commended the Ministry of Interior for its ongoing reforms.

He described the current immigration processes as the most efficient he had seen in Nigeria and said the reforms reflected the Minister’s commitment to service excellence.

Dantata highlighted the global economic influence of horse racing, citing events such as the Epsom Derby and the Dubai World Cup, which attract huge investments and community engagement worldwide.

He said Nigeria’s own cultural heritage, including its renowned Durbar festivals, provides a strong foundation for international competitiveness.

He revealed that the Federation is working towards securing Nigeria’s first-ever participation in the Dubai World Cup, describing the plan as a major step in placing the country on the global sporting map and advancing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

Dantata affirmed the Federation’s readiness to fund its strategic goals and expressed optimism that the partnership with the Ministry would elevate Nigeria’s footprint in global horse racing.

He thanked the Minister for the warm reception and extended an invitation to attend forthcoming Federation events aimed at showcasing Nigeria’s growing potential.