FEI delegation to assess Nigeria’s bid for equestrian affiliation

A delegation from the Fédération Équestre Internationale will visit Nigeria from Monday, September 28, to Thursday, October 1, as the country advances its application for international affiliation. The Nigeria Equestrian Federation said the four-day visit formed part of the final stage of the process before Nigeria’s application is considered by the FEI General Assembly. The delegation is expected to meet representatives of the Nigeria Olympic Committee and the National Sports Commission.

It will also inspect equestrian facilities and engage other stakeholders involved in administering and developing the sport. The assessment will cover governance, technical structures, athlete and official development, veterinary systems, horse welfare, facilities, competitions, and anti-doping and medication arrangements. NEF President Anthony Obiorah described the visit as an important milestone but said affiliation was not the federation’s only objective.

He said Nigeria wanted its governance and technical structures to operate to internationally recognised standards. Obiorah acknowledged continuing challenges involving infrastructure, funding, technical capacity and access to specialised services. He said the federation was working to improve facilities, veterinary support, biosecurity and technical development.

Vice-president Vanessa Asuni said the federation was developing pathways for riders, coaches, grooms, judges, stewards, veterinarians and other technical personnel. She also pointed to schools, riding schools and youth programmes as ways to widen participation. If recognised, the federation said it would seek greater international participation and work towards hosting FEI-sanctioned competitions in Nigeria.

It said horse welfare would remain central to the process.