Argungu Fishing Festival
Kebbi State Government has announced February 11 to 14 as the official dates for the 2026 Argungu International Fishing Festival, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated cultural events.
The disclosure was made by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, shortly after an expanded meeting involving the State Festival Main Committee and the Emirate Local Organising Committee. The meeting was held on Friday at the Deputy Governor’s Office.
Speaking to journalists, the monarch traced the origin of the festival to a historic peace initiative.
“The Argungu Fishing Festival started as a peace initiative between the Sokoto Caliphate jihadists and the Kanta Kingdom,” the Emir said.
“Because of its historical significance, UNESCO later adopted the festival as an international cultural event.”
He further explained that the festival later assumed a unifying national role after the Nigerian Civil War.
“At the end of the civil war, the festival brought together fishermen from different parts of the country to symbolise unity during the Yakubu Gowon administration,” he added.
According to the Emir, this year’s edition is expected to draw dignitaries and tourists from different parts of the world.
“The event will showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Argungu Kingdom to the world,” he said.
Also speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the State Festival Main Committee and Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Tafida, assured that preparations were progressing steadily.
“We have constituted various subcommittees to ensure a smooth and successful festival,” Tafida said.
He noted that the state government had put in place detailed arrangements to guarantee the success of the event.
“These include venue preparation, hospitality, and the provision of awards for deserving winners, among other logistics,” he stated.
Senator Tafida urged members of the committees to remain committed to their assignments.
“I urge all committee members not to relent in their efforts until we achieve a successful festival,” he said.
