The 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, commenced on Wednesday with a strong investment drive.

The Kebbi State government convened an Investors’ Forum to attract local and international partners.

Speaking at the official launch in Birnin Kebbi, the deputy governor of the state, Umar Tafida, said the forum underscored the determination of both the federal and the state governments to deliver a successful and globally competitive festival.

Mr Tafida, who chairs the central planning committee of the festival, described the event as a historic curtain-raiser aimed at projecting the Argungu Festival as a major tourism asset and economic catalyst.

He said the festival, which originated over 500 years ago as a local fishing celebration, evolved into a national and international cultural event in 1934 following a reconciliatory visit by the Sultan of Sokoto.

“The colonial authorities began supporting the festival in 1935 to foster peace, while the federal government assumed funding in 1970 after the Nigerian Civil War as part of national reconciliation efforts.

“The federal government constructed a fishing village to integrate fishermen from the South-East, further strengthening national unity,” he said.

Mr Tafida noted that the festival gained international prominence in 1970 when it was attended by the then Head of State, Yakubu Gowon, and the President of the Republic of Niger, adding that subsequent Nigerian leaders had sustained participation.

He listed notable milestones of the festival to include its inscription on the N50 banknote, 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.

He added 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.

“It serves as a platform for tourism promotion, cultural diplomacy and creative enterprise, as well as a driver of economic growth.

“It is a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s unity in diversity, bringing together people from across the country and beyond to celebrate a shared heritage,” he said.

The deputy governor disclosed that activities lined up for the 2026 edition include an agricultural and industrial trade fair, motor racing, a polo tournament, archery, water sports, a cultural durbar, a cultural night, and motorcycle, horse and camel races, culminating in the grand fishing competition.

He appreciated sponsors and strategic partners for their support, expressing optimism that the Investors’ Forum would secure commitments to upgrade festival infrastructure into a sustainable, year-round tourism destination.

Mr Tafida highlighted the state’s investment potential in solid minerals, agribusiness, aquaculture and tourism infrastructure, citing its abundant natural resources and strategic location linking Nigerian and regional markets.

He said the administration of Governor Nasir Idris remained open to partnerships with global investors, tourism developers and hospitality brands.

The deputy governor formally declared the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival open. 

(NAN)