Nigeria to Host First-Ever African Chovken Championship in 2025

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Nigeria has been selected to host the maiden African regional championship of the International Chovken Federation (ICF), a milestone event expected to attract teams from across the continent and spotlight the country’s equestrian sports capabilities.

The announcement was made by Nura Sani Kangiwa, Chairman of the African Region of the ICF, during a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, in Abuja on Monday.

Chovken, a high-speed equestrian team sport with ancient roots, bears close resemblance to polo. The game involves two teams of four horse riders each, who use curved wooden mallets to drive a small leather ball into the opponent’s goal over two 15-minute halves. Recently, Chovken was inscribed by UNESCO as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Kangiwa, who also serves as Nigeria’s lead advocate for Chovken, emphasized the strategic importance of the 2025 championship for the development of equestrian sports in the country.

“Hosting this championship will not only boost Nigeria’s image internationally but also stimulate interest and investment in equestrian sports across the country,” Kangiwa said. “Countries like Egypt, Morocco, Kenya, and several others have already expressed readiness to participate.”

The visiting delegation from the Nigeria Chovken Association included Abdulkarim Jibril, President; Abba Kangiwa, Secretary; Muktar Adahama, Treasurer and Tournament Manager; Colonel Yusuf Bello, Team Captain; and Abdulmalik Badamasi, Head of Pony Welfare.

The group briefed the Sports Commission on preparations for the event and sought collaborative support from the government in terms of logistics, infrastructure, and promotion.

Alhaji Shehu Dikko commended the delegation and pledged the Commission’s support, noting that hosting such an event aligns with the federal government’s goal of expanding the country’s sporting portfolio beyond mainstream athletics.

“We are pleased to see a traditional and culturally rich sport like Chovken gaining ground in Nigeria,” Dikko said. “This championship is not just a sporting event—it’s an opportunity to showcase our hospitality, talent, and readiness to engage with global sporting communities.”

Nigeria’s growing interest in Chovken follows the country’s notable performance at the maiden International Chovken Championship held in Baku, Azerbaijan, from June 12 to 16, 2024. Nigeria secured third place among ten participating nations, including host Azerbaijan, Turkey, Germany, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and Morocco.

“The third-place finish in Baku gave us international recognition,” said Jibril. “Now, bringing the game home gives us a chance to deepen the sport’s presence and attract new talent.”

“We are working with private and public stakeholders to ensure a seamless hosting experience,” added Adahama. “This is a legacy project that could redefine equestrian sports in Nigeria.”

“The game resonates with our culture and heritage,” said Bello. “It has the potential to inspire a new generation of horse riders and sports lovers.”

“Our priority is not only competition but also the welfare of the animals and long-term development,” noted Badamasi. “Chovken is more than a game—it’s a tradition.”