Sani Dutsinma
The 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival has officially commenced in Birnin Kebbi, with the Kebbi State Government launching an Investors’ Forum aimed at attracting local and international partners.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Tafida, said the forum reflects the strong commitment of both the Federal and State Governments to deliver a successful, globally competitive festival.
Tafida, who chairs the Central Planning Committee of the festival, described the Investors’ Forum as a historic curtain-raiser designed to reposition the Argungu Festival as a key tourism asset and economic driver for Nigeria.
He traced the origins of the festival to over 500 years ago, when it began as a local fishing celebration.
According to him, it evolved into a national and international cultural event in 1934 following a reconciliatory visit by the Sultan of Sokoto.
The deputy governor noted that the festival gained international prominence in 1970 when it was attended by the then Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and the President of the Niger Republic, adding that successive Nigerian leaders have since sustained participation in the event.
He highlighted major milestones of the festival, including its inscription on the N50 banknote, the 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.
Tafida further stated that the festival was identified as a key tourism product in Nigeria’s 2012 National Tourism Master Plan, describing it as more than a cultural celebration.
He said the event serves as a platform for tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy, creative enterprise and economic growth.
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.
The festival will culminate in the grand fishing competition, which remains its flagship attraction.
The deputy governor formally declared the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival open, expressing optimism that the event would further strengthen Kebbi State’s position as a major tourism destination.