Tinubu Hails Argungu Festival as Sign of Stability, Promises Support for Agriculture, Tourism

President Bola Tinubu has described the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival as evidence of restored stability in Kebbi State and across the country, pledging continued federal backing for agriculture, tourism, food security and rural development.

Alh Dr Ismaila Muhammadu Mera, Emir of Argungu, Nasir Idris, Governor of Kebbi State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senator Umar Abubakar, Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, at the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Kebbi State, on Saturday, February 14, 2026

Speaking Saturday at the grand finale in Argungu, the President commended the state government for hosting the four-day cultural celebration, which attracted more than 50,000 fishermen from Nigeria and neighbouring countries and featured traditional displays, water contests, boxing and dance performances.

“This festival has endured for 83 years and stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience and peaceful coexistence among our people,” Tinubu said, praising the security arrangements that ensured a safe event.

He noted that socio-cultural gatherings thrive only where safety is assured, adding that recent improvements in security across the region were the result of coordinated efforts among federal and state authorities as well as security agencies. According to him, the government remains committed to defeating banditry and insurgency so citizens can pursue livelihoods without fear.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nasir Idris, Governor of Kebbi State and Alh Dr Ismaila Muhammadu Mera, Emir of Argungu at the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Kebbi State on Saturday, February 14, 2026

The President reaffirmed federal support for farmers, fishermen and rural communities, describing Kebbi as a key contributor to national food security and pledging joint initiatives with the state to strengthen agricultural productivity.

Tinubu also highlighted the festival’s role in promoting national unity and projecting Nigeria’s cultural heritage globally, while reiterating his administration’s commitment to peace, empowerment, infrastructure and economic growth.

Before attending the festival, the President commissioned several projects in Birnin Kebbi, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secretariat Complex, a new motor park, a three-lane dual carriageway, the Kauran Gwandu College of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences, Ambursa, and the dualised Old Argungu By-Pass Road.

Governor Nasir Idris thanked the President for attending and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustaining the festival as a platform for cultural preservation, tourism and economic empowerment. He listed achievements in infrastructure, healthcare, education and civil service welfare, including the rehabilitation of 16 general hospitals, upgrades to over 120 primary healthcare centres and recruitment of more than 1,800 health workers.

The Emir of Argungu, Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, said the return of the traditional gunshot at the Matan Fada fishing arena after nearly six years symbolised reconciliation, peace and renewed unity. He also commended Tinubu’s national initiatives, including health sector reforms and major road projects.

Announcing the fishing contest results, Deputy Governor Umar Abubakar Tafida said Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area emerged overall winner with a 59kg catch, receiving ₦1 million and two cars. Abdullahi Garba from Argungu placed second with a 40kg fish and was awarded ₦750,000, a car and a Hajj seat. Two contestants from Jigawa State and Kogi State shared third place with 33kg catches, each receiving ₦1 million and a motorcycle.

All four winning fish were later presented to the President as souvenirs.