Mohammed Kabir Gobir, the Chief Executive Officer of the Kwara Horse Club and Resort, has extolled the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Dr. Zulu Gambari as he celebrates the 30th anniversary on the throne.
Muhammed Gobir conveyed deep admiration for the Emir, highlighting his role as a leader and a personal influence from childhood.
He said, the Emir has consistently supported not only him but also thousands of individuals beyond Ilorin, Kwara State, reaching as far as Lagos, Ibadan, and other regions.
He revealed that, His Highness is regarded as both a ruler and a father figure, wishing him continued success and longevity on the throne, desiring to see him govern the palace with enduring happiness.
The CEO mentioned that a special celebration is taking place today at the mosque, with prayers for the Emir’s long life and prosperity. He also noted a mini durbar held on Sunday, during which the community, led by their esteemed Ciroma, paraded through the city on horses to honor and celebrate the Emir and their heritage.
He revealed the significance of horse to the Emir and the cultural heritage of Ilorin City.
“The horse race holds particular significance, as the Emir possesses a profound affection for horses, having been an avid rider for decades. He was the first to introduce me to horse riding at the age of eight, and
and the young generation is encouraged to uphold this tradition and spread awareness of their proud history.
For those interested in learning or maintaining horses, he said the Kwara Horse Club offers comprehensive support, provides training to individuals, fostering a deep appreciation for horse riding as experienced trainers are available to impart their knowledge and passion.
He said his dedication to horse riding stems from the profound influence of the Emir, as it has been an integral part of their culture and history for generations. The younger generation is tasked with preserving this tradition and passing it on to future generations.
“In Northern states, activities such as Polo and horse racing have been practiced for centuries, from Zaria, Kano, and Kaduna to Lagos and Ibadan.
“With the backing of the governor, the Emir, and the community, the Kwara Horse Club aims to make horse riding a tangible reality in Kwara. I envision a future where youth can find opportunities in horse riding.
“A significant aspect of the Kwara Horse Club’s mission is mentoring the youth. The club offers programs to introduce children who may lack hope for the future to horse riding.
“Efforts are made to encourage female participation and create spaces for all to experience the joy of horse riding.
“For youths seeking purpose, the Kwara Horse Club aims to provide avenues for training, job creation, and opportunities to stay off the streets. Once our facilities are fully operational, we plan to hure numerous individuals in our space.
Muhammed Gobir noted that, the Kwara Horse Club is committed to empowering the youth, offering them opportunities not only to ride but also to care for horses, fostering a lasting passion for this noble pursuit.