President Bola Tinubu will conduct a one-day official visit to Kebbi State on Saturday to inaugurate development projects completed under the administration of Governor Nasir Idris. The presidency confirmed the trip in a statement released on Friday by Presidential Spokesperson Bayo Onanuga in Abuja.
The centerpiece of the visit will be President Tinubu’s participation as Special Guest of Honour at the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival in 2026. The festival, held annually along the historic Matan Fada riverbank, is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and stands as one of Africa’s most prominent cultural celebrations.
The statement specifies that the presidential visit will focus on commissioning state-executed infrastructure and socioeconomic projects. While the specific projects were not detailed in the initial release, the trip underscores the federal government’s engagement with subnational development initiatives.
The Argungu Festival itself draws international attention for its unique blend of traditional fishing competitions, cultural displays, and artistic expressions that celebrate the heritage of the Sokoto Caliphate region. Its UNESCO designation highlights its global cultural value, making the President’s attendance a notable diplomatic and cultural gesture.
This scheduled visit pairs governmental project oversight with high-profile cultural diplomacy. It signals a continued emphasis on both regional development and the promotion of Nigeria’s rich intangible heritage on an international stage. The event is expected to attract local dignitaries, cultural performers, and tourists, further bolstering Kebbi State’s profile.
