Nigerian Kennel Club (NKC)

The Canine Owners & Breeders Association (COBA), serving as the official National Kennel Club for Nigeria, is a non-profit organization established in 2019. Registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission, COBA acts as the primary authority for canine registration and welfare in the country. It is internationally recognized and maintains a formal affiliation with the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), ensuring that Nigerian dog breeding and exhibition standards align with global practices.

Core Mission and Activities

COBA’s mission centers on the promotion, preservation, and betterment of dogs across Nigeria. The organization serves as the official registry for both purebred and non-purebred dogs, providing a comprehensive Studbook that tracks ancestry, health tests, temperament evaluations, and championship titles. Beyond registration, the club is deeply involved in the following activities:

• All-Breed Shows: COBA organizes prestigious FCI CAC and CACIB championship shows, as well as companion shows, where dogs are evaluated against established breed standards.
• Education: Through the COBA Canine College and various webinars, the organization provides professional-led education on responsible dog ownership and breeding.
• Virtual Engagement: The club leverages technology to host virtual competitions and educational seminars, including programs specifically designed for youth aged 8-18.
• Breed Clubs: COBA supports specialized breed clubs dedicated to the specific needs and improvement of individual dog breeds.

Membership and Services

With a community of over 5,000 registered members, COBA provides essential services to the Nigerian canine community. Members gain access to official pedigree certificates, kennel name (affix) registration, and export/health documentation. The organization also maintains a Hall of Fame, celebrating top-performing dogs in categories such as Best in Show (BIS) and Best Bred in Nigeria (BBN), highlighting the success of local breeding programs.

Commitment to Standards

By managing the national studbook and licensing dog sports nationwide, COBA ensures that all technical records—from birth notifications to physical conformation—are maintained throughout a dog's lifetime. This rigorous approach to record-keeping and event management solidifies COBA's role as the cornerstone of the Nigerian dog industry, fostering a culture of excellence, responsibility, and international connectivity for breeders and owners alike.