Afon, the administrative headquarters of Asa Local Government Area in Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, drew attention to its rich cultural heritage on Sunday as it hosted its annual fishing festival, further cementing its place on the tourism map.
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The event drew a diverse mix of tourists from over 10 states across the federation, along with content creators and key government officials, to the banks of the Asa River.
This centuries-old fishing festival rose to prominence in 2023 when Jamiu Balogun, an Afon indigene, partnered with Visit Kwara, a tourism promotion platform, to actively promote the event.
Jamiu Balogun, the lead organizer of the Afon Fishing Festival, told journalists in Afon that the event has been steadily growing in popularity since incorporating tourism-focused elements.
Call for Government Support
He emphasized the need for support from national, state, and international tourism organizations, citing the historical and cultural significance of the Asa River, which connects over 20 communities in Asa Local Government.
The District Head of Afon, Mallam Hanafi Olayinka Kola Balogun, who also serves as Chairman of Traditional Rulers in Asa Local Government, highlighted the festival’s deep-rooted tradition and his commitment to promoting it on a global scale. He noted ongoing discussions with the state government, which accounted for the presence of government officials at the event.
In his address, the Chairman of Asa Local Government, Alhaji Shehu Yahaya, underscored the vital role of tourism in boosting Afon’s local economy, particularly in contrast to larger cities like Ilorin, the state capital. He reaffirmed the local council’s support for the festival and its continued growth.
Also speaking with journalists, the Chief Fisher Head, Alhaji Alabi Laraba, expressed his excitement over the festival’s development, particularly during his tenure.
He further stressed the importance of preserving the festival for future generations.
Among the dignitaries at the fishing festival were the Chairman of the Niger River Lower Basin, Alhaji Gidado Alakawa, the Chairman of Afon Community, Alhaji Issa Amosa, and many others.
Oluchi Okwuego
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