Tinubu Attends 61st Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi

President Bola Tinubu was in Kebbi State on Saturday to witness the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing Festival, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural events.

The president joined dignitaries, traditional rulers, and tourists at the historic festival, which annually draws hundreds of fishermen to the banks of the Argungu River in a display of skill, endurance, and heritage.

His arrival was announced by presidential spokesperson Sunday Dare, who described the festival as a cultural spectacle with global appeal. He noted that the event’s international character and long-standing tradition position it for greater global recognition.

Tinubu was accompanied by several political figures, including Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma. At one point during the festival, the president was seen reacting with visible surprise as a particularly large fish was presented and weighed before spectators.

A Festival Rooted in Culture and Competition

The Argungu Fishing Festival, held in Argungu town, has grown over the decades into an internationally recognised cultural showcase. The highlight of the event is the fishing competition, where hundreds of participants armed with traditional nets and gourds enter the river simultaneously in pursuit of the biggest catch.

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A designated panel oversees the weighing process to determine the winner. The fisherman whose catch records the highest weight is declared champion for the year and awarded prizes.

Beyond the competition itself, the festival features cultural displays, music, dance performances, and other traditional activities that celebrate the heritage of Kebbi State and the wider northern region.

Push for Global Recognition

Officials have continued to emphasise the need to further develop the festival into a global tourism brand capable of attracting increased international participation.

Speaking on the significance of the event, Dare highlighted its originality and growing international presence, noting the visible influx of tourists for this year’s edition. He suggested that with sustained investment and promotion, the festival could rank among the world’s most renowned cultural events.

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Over the years, the Argungu Fishing Festival has served not only as a sporting contest but also as a symbol of peace, unity, and cultural pride. Its continued hosting underscores efforts to promote tourism, preserve tradition, and stimulate economic activity in the region.