Historic Return of Argungu Festival After Six-Year Hiatus Sparks Cultural Revival and Economic Buzz in Nigeria!
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Historic Return of Argungu Festival After Six-Year Hiatus Sparks Cultural Revival and Economic Buzz in Nigeria!
Reported by sadauna Lydia edeh (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
Argungu, Kebbi State, Nigeria The 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival made a triumphant return from February 11 to 14, 2026, drawing thousands of competitors, spectators and cultural enthusiasts to the UNESCO recognized Matan Fada River in northwest Nigeria. The landmark event unfolded after a six-year suspension linked to longstanding security challenges in the region, marking a significant milestone for cultural resurgence and community pride.
Africanews
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was among the high-profile attendees, underscoring the federal government’s renewed commitment to cultural heritage, national unity and tourism development. During his visit, Tinubu also inaugurated key public works in Birnin Kebbi, the Kebbi State capital, aligning national development ambitions with grassroots cultural celebration.
Al Jazeera +1
At the heart of the festival was the iconic fishing competition, where hundreds of men plunged into the river with only traditional nets, calabash gourds and hand fishing techniques to secure the largest catch within a limited timeframe a practice that recalls the festival’s origins in 1934 as a peace celebration between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Argungu emirate.
UNESCO ICH +1
The 2026 competition’s standout success came from Abubakar Usman of Maiyama Local Government Area, whose catch a 59-kilogram freshwater fish earned him not only the top prize but also two new saloon cars and a ₦1 million cash award. Runners-up prizes were also distributed to other notable participants, reinforcing tradition and communal spirit.
TheCable +1
Beyond the fishing spectacle, the festival featured a vibrant calendar of cultural displays, including archery, camel racing, polo, wrestling, traditional dances and music, alongside exhibitions of local crafts, agricultural produce and livestock. These events showcased the cultural depth and economic potential of the northwest Nigerian community, drawing visitors from neighbouring countries such as Niger, Chad and Togo.
Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service +1
Organisers and government officials alike have lauded the festival’s return as a showcase of resilience and heritage. While security concerns have historically dampened attendance, this year’s successful staging was widely interpreted as a testament to local communities’ perseverance and Nigeria’s broader efforts to stabilise and promote cultural tourism.
Al Jazeera
The Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival remains one of Nigeria’s most storied cultural events a dynamic fusion of sport, ritual and celebration that continues to bind communities and project Nigeria’s cultural identity on the global stage.
UNESCO
Sources:
Al Jazeera “Africa’s Argungu fishing contest returns after years of pause”
Africanews “Nigeria’s Argungu fishing festival returns after six-year hiatus”
TheCable “Kebbi fisherman wins Argungu festival with 59kg fish catch”
BusinessDay “What to know about Argungu fish festival”
Voice of Nigeria “Archery, Polo, Camel Racing Ignite 2026 Argungu Festival”
Al Jazeera
Africanews
TheCable
Businessday NG
Voice of Nigeria Broadcasting Service.
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