For three days during Sallah last week, residents of Kano lined up the streets to watch horse parades by their Emir, Mohammed Sanusi 11, his councillors, servants and subjects.

Durbar is a spectacular horse procession festival organised by traditional rulers, especially the emirs in northern Nigeria. The royal parade takes place mostly during the two Sallah festivities (Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha) or when the emirs honour distinguished guests with a special treat.

This year’s edition of Panisau Durbar festival paraded hundreds of men in colourful garments and other traditional regalia such as turban and decorated animal skin, riding well-bred and beautifully adorned horses.

Picture Credit: @maigaskiya