Tinubu applauds Argungu fishing festival, describes it as symbol of unity, cultural pride
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday extolled the enduring legacy of the Argungu International Fishing Festival, describing the globally recognised cultural celebration as a testament to Nigeria’s unity, resilience and peaceful coexistence.
The President spoke while attending the 2026 edition of the festival in Argungu, Kebbi State, where thousands of spectators gathered to witness the historic competition and colourful displays that have defined the event for over eight decades.
Established 83 years ago, the annual festival marks the commencement of the fishing season in the riverside town of Argungu.
Over time, it has evolved into one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural and tourism attractions, drawing participants and visitors from across the country and beyond.
Addressing dignitaries, traditional rulers and festival participants, Tinubu said the longevity of the celebration reflects the strength of Nigeria’s traditions and the deep cultural bonds that unite its diverse communities.
According to him, the festival embodies the richness of the nation’s heritage and underscores the vast opportunities embedded in properly harnessing Nigeria’s natural and human resources .
The President attributed the success of this year’s festival to improved security conditions in Kebbi State and other parts of the country.
He stressed that cultural events of such scale can only flourish in a peaceful and secure environment.
Tinubu noted that progress recorded in tackling insecurity particularly banditry and insurgency had created the enabling atmosphere necessary for tourism and socio-cultural activities to thrive.
He said ongoing collaboration between the Federal Government, state authorities and security agencies was yielding tangible results.
Describing the prevailing calm in the region as deliberate and hard-earned, the President explained that strategic intelligence gathering and strengthened community engagement had played a crucial role in restoring stability.
He assured citizens that efforts to consolidate security gains would continue, adding that farmers, fishermen, traders and families must be able to pursue their goals.
The highlight of the festival, the fishing contest — lived up to expectations as contestants plunged into the river in pursuit of the largest catch.
This year’s top prize went to Abubakar Usman from Mayama in Kebbi State, whose fish weighed an impressive 59 kilograms.
Abdullahi Garba from Argungu secured second place with a 40-kilogramme catch, while Danlanso Dangani from Jega and Dogo Dauda finished joint third after landing fish weighing 33 kilograms each.
The spectacle once again showcased the skill, endurance and tradition associated with the centuries-old fishing practices of the region.
The event attracted a host of prominent figures, including Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, who served as host.
Also present were governors from several states, among them Imo, Borno, Sokoto and Jigawa, alongside traditional leaders and other government officials.
As festivities continue, the Argungu Fishing Festival remains not only a celebration of sport and tradition but also a reflection of Nigeria’s cultural diversity and shared national identity.
