Ya’uri Hosts 2025 Rigata Festival: Tradition, Tourism Unite

The ancient city of Ya’uri in Kebbi State is preparing to host the highly anticipated Rigata Cultural Festival from February 13 to 15, 2025. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better, as organizers are determined to overcome the challenges that impacted last year’s festival.

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Speaking on the preparations, Alhaji Abubakar Sa’idu Yakubu, Vice Chairman of the Festival Publicity Committee, revealed that the committee has identified key issues from the previous edition and is committed to delivering a world-class, tourist-friendly experience.

Dating back over 200 years, the Rigata Cultural Festival is steeped in tradition, celebrating the naval prowess of the Gungu people. Historically, the festival featured daring riverine maneuvers and heroic attacks on hippopotamuses along the River Niger, showcasing the bravery of the community. Today, it has evolved into a grand spectacle of water sports, entertainment, and cultural pride, serving as a platform to display wealth, power, and influence, particularly during prominent wedding ceremonies.

This year, the organizing committee is placing a special emphasis on global tourism, with plans to attract visitors from around the world. Media collaboration is being sought to amplify the festival’s reach and highlight Kebbi State as a major cultural and tourism destination.

The Rigata Cultural Festival not only preserves the rich heritage of the Gungu people but also provides an opportunity to celebrate the vibrancy and unity of the region. With an exciting lineup of events and improved planning, the 2025 edition is set to captivate audiences and further elevate Kebbi State’s cultural significance on the global stage.

Oluchi