Argungu Festival Tool for Unity, Food Security, Says Tinubu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured that the annual Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival will continue to receive federal backing as part of efforts to strengthen national cohesion, peace and agricultural development.
During the 2026 edition of the event in Kebbi State, the President emphasized that the centuries-old festival represents more than a cultural display. He described it as a platform that reflects Nigeria’s rich traditions while serving as a catalyst for economic growth and food production. He stated that sustaining the festival aligns with his administration’s broader agricultural and security agenda.
Tinubu noted that farmers in Kebbi would keep receiving federal support to enhance food security, acknowledging the state’s strong participation in national agricultural initiatives. He explained that improved security conditions across farming communities have enabled cultivators to carry out their activities more effectively, attributing the progress to ongoing collaboration between government and local communities.
He also highlighted plans to harness irrigation opportunities around Ilela in Ilela, saying the project would reinforce agricultural programmes in both Kebbi and neighbouring Sokoto. The President added that targeted investments in youth and women development remain central to his administration’s strategy.
Commending the security arrangements for the festival, Tinubu praised the coordination between federal and state authorities, as well as security agencies, which ensured the smooth conduct of the celebration.
He also applauded Nasir Idris, the Emir of Argungu, participating fishermen, and international guests for contributing to the event’s success.
Earlier, Governor Idris described the festival as a unifying cultural gathering that enhances Kebbi’s image and economic prospects.
He expressed delight over the President’s visit, which also featured the commissioning of a new ultra-modern state secretariat designed to accommodate 25,000 civil servants, alongside a newly constructed central motor park.
The Emir of Argungu, Muhammed Samaila Mera, acknowledged minor logistical challenges during the celebration and traced the fishing tradition back over 500 years, noting that it became a competitive event 83 years ago.
Several governors attended the occasion, including those from Jigawa State, Borno State, Zamfara State, Sokoto State, Katsina State, and Kaduna State. Also present were Minister of Works Dave Umahi, Minister of State for Works Bello Goronyo, and former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega.
In the competition segment, Abubakar Usman from Maiyama emerged overall winner after catching a 59-kilogram fish. He received two saloon cars and a cash prize of one million naira.
Abdullahi Garba from Argungu secured second place with a 40-kilogram catch and was rewarded with a car, one million naira, and a Hajj slot. Danlansu Dankani from Jega claimed third position with a 33-kilogram fish and went home with a motorcycle.
The Argungu festival continues to draw local and international visitors, reinforcing its status as one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural and agricultural events.
