The Deputy Governor of Kebbi State and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee for the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, has formally declared the 2026 festival and Investors’ Forum open.
Describing the event as a grand curtain-raiser, Tafida said the opening ceremony was designed to showcase the rich heritage and national significance of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival to Nigeria and the wider world.
He said the gathering reaffirmed the commitment of both the Federal Government of Nigeria and the Kebbi State Government to hosting a successful and spectacular 61st edition of the festival.
Highlighting the festival’s history, the Deputy Governor said the Argungu Fishing Festival originated more than 500 years ago as a local celebration marking the fishing season in Kebbi. It evolved into a major cross-cultural event in 1934 following a reconciliatory visit by the Sultan of Sokoto.
Colonial administrative support began in 1935 to promote peace and unity in the region. After the Nigerian Civil War, the Federal Government resumed funding for the festival in 1970 and established a fishing village to integrate fishermen from the South-East as part of national reconciliation efforts.
The festival gained international prominence in 1970 when it was attended by then Head of State General Yakubu Gowon and the President of the Republic of Niger. Since then, successive Nigerian leaders have participated in the event.
Tafida listed key milestones, including the festival’s depiction on the ₦50 banknote, the hosting of Nigeria’s first Motor Safari Rally in 1972, and its recognition during FESTAC ’77. He also noted that in 2016, UNESCO inscribed the Argungu Fishing Festival on the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The festival has further been recognised as a strategic tourism asset in Nigeria’s 2012 National Tourism Master Plan and remains a subject of academic and diplomatic interest.
Economic and Cultural Significance
The Deputy Governor described the festival as more than a cultural celebration.
“Beyond its vibrant cultural displays, the Argungu Festival is a vital platform for tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy and creative enterprise. It serves as a catalyst for economic growth and international cooperation,” he said.
“More than a regional celebration, it is a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s cultural diversity and unity, a bridge connecting people across the nation and fostering national pride and social cohesion.”
He said visitors would experience a wide range of activities, including an Agricultural and Industrial Trade Fair, motor racing events, a polo tournament, archery competitions, water sports, a colourful cultural durbar, and cultural night performances featuring traditional music and dance.
There will also be motorcycle, horse, and camel races, culminating in the world-famous Grand Fishing Finale.
Tafida expressed appreciation to sponsors and strategic partners for their support and said the state looked forward to strengthening partnerships and attracting further investment.
“Our vision is to transform the festival infrastructure into a sustainable, year-round tourism destination capable of generating long-term economic prosperity,” he said.
He added that Kebbi State offers significant investment opportunities in agriculture, aquaculture, mining, transportation, housing, and tourism, supported by competitive incentives and a strategic geographic location linking key Nigerian and regional markets.
“Kebbi State Government remains open for business. We welcome international investors, tourism developers and global hospitality brands to partner with us in developing premium resorts, eco-friendly facilities and modern tourism infrastructure that will position Argungu and Kebbi State as world-class destinations,” he said.
The Deputy Governor also welcomed cultural troupes and participants from across Nigeria and abroad, describing their presence as a demonstration of strong governmental support for the festival.
“It is my singular honour and privilege to formally declare the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival open,” he announced.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Kebbi State Investment Promotion Agency, Dr Muhammad Kabir Kamba, said more than 43 investors from different parts of the world attended the Investors’ Forum.
According to him, several investors have expressed interest in agriculture, transportation, mining, and housing, with Memoranda of Understanding worth about 14 million US dollars already signed.
At the end of the programme, Kebbi State emerged first position while Zamfara State came second and third position at the Secondary School quiz competition.