Sani Dutsinma
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, has revealed that the famous Argungu Fishing Festival originated as a peace initiative between the Sokoto Caliphate jihadists and the Kanta Kingdom, before evolving into an internationally recognised cultural event.
The Emir disclosed this while speaking with journalists shortly after an expanded meeting involving the State Festival Main Committee and the Emirate Local Organising Committee at the Deputy Governor’s Office in Birnin Kebbi.
He explained that because of its historical and cultural significance, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) later adopted the festival as a global heritage event.
Mera further noted that after the Nigerian Civil War, the festival played a key role in promoting national unity, bringing together fishermen from different parts of the country as a symbol of reconciliation during the administration of General Yakubu Gowon.
The Emir added that this year’s edition of the festival is expected to attract dignitaries and tourists from across the world, as it will showcase the rich cultural heritage and traditions of the Argungu Kingdom on an international stage.
Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the State Main Committee and Kebbi State Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Tafida, said preparations for the festival were in top gear.
He stated that the state government had made comprehensive arrangements to ensure the success of the event and urged all committee members to remain committed until the set objectives were achieved.
Tafida expressed confidence that the festival would further boost tourism, economic activities, and cultural integration in Kebbi State and Nigeria at large.