Writing By Sani Dutsinma; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
The 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, has commenced with a strong investment drive as the Kebbi Government convened an Investors’ Forum to attract local and international partners.
Speaking at the official launch in Birnin Kebbi, the Deputy Governor of the state, Senator Umar Tafida, said the forum emphasised the determination of both Federal and the state governments to deliver a successful and globally competitive festival.
Tafida, who chairs the Central Planning Committee of the festival, described the event as a historic curtain-raiser aimed at projecting the Argungu Festival as a major tourism asset and economic catalyst.
He said the festival, which originated over 500 years ago as a local fishing celebration, evolved into a national and international cultural event in 1934 following a reconciliatory visit by the Sultan of Sokoto.
Tafida noted that the festival gained international prominence in 1970 when it was attended by the then Head of State, Gen. Yakubu Gowon, and the President of Niger Republic, adding that subsequent Nigerian leaders had sustained participation.
He listed notable milestones of the festival to include its inscription on the N50 banknote, hosting of Nigeria’s first Motor Safari Rally in 1972, recognition during FESTAC ’77, and its inscription by UNESCO in 2016 as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
He added that the festival was identified as a key tourism product in Nigeria’s 2012 National Tourism Master Plan, describing the festival as more than a cultural celebration but served as a platform for tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy and creative enterprise, as well as a driver of economic growth.
The deputy governor disclosed that activities lined up for the 2026 edition include an Agricultural and Industrial Trade Fair, Motor Racing, Polo Tournament, Archery, Water Sports, Cultural Durbar, Cultural Night, and motorcycle, horse and camel races, culminating in the grand fishing competition.
The deputy governor formally declared the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival open.
COV/SANI DUTSINMA
