In various northern Nigerian cities, including Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Zazzau, Bauchi, Bida, and Ilorin, the Durbar festival is an annual celebration of culture, religion, and equestrian sports. The celebration, which also coincides with the Muslim holidays of Eid al-Adha and Eid al-Fitri, signals the conclusion of Ramadan.

Ilorin, the capital of Kwara state, is located in Nigeria in the North Central region. Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Sulu Gambari CFR, the eleventh Emir of Ilorin, is the current ceremonial ruler of the city. The ancient Oyo Empire’s regional military command was based in Ilorin, which was established in 1450. The city is a melting pot of cultures, home to tribes including Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Fulani, Nupe, Bariba, Kanuri, and Mali.

Sons and daughters of Ilorin, visitors, and tradition lovers gather to witness the Durbar Festival every year. The Durbar includes town storming, cultural exhibitions, and horse procession. The image of a royal procession made up of thousands of men riding horses and wearing elaborate regalia and colorful clothing is breathtaking.

2022 Ilorin Emirate Durbar

Essentially, Ilorin Emirate Durbar is a masterful show of horsemanship and a stunning presentation of Ilorin cultural customs and heritage. Along with His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, the Emir of Ilorin, the Turaki of the Ilorin Emirate, Saliu Mustapha, was present.

The Ilorin Durbar Celebration

The Durbar fiesta was historically significant; it had been held for about 100 years before it was revived by the city’s present emir.

On the second day following the Islamic holiday of Eid Al-Adha, the durbar feast takes place. Because the majority of people travel home for the Islamic holiday every year, this day has been chosen for the event because it will thereby indirectly increase attendance at the Durbar holiday. Everyone may attend the Durbar festivity. Due to the fact that foreigners frequently visit to attend the Durbar festival, it also acts as a tourism destination.

The festivities start the morning of the main event when the emir and his chiefs ride around the city on a horse that has been elaborately decorated to greet citizens. The official start of the program, which takes place in and around the palace, will happen when he gets back there. Horse racing usually kicks things off. Men will demonstrate their horsemanship prowess. There will be a representative from each chief’s family during the horse races and skill show. A award is given to the delegate with the best skill.