Abubakar Usman from Kebbi State’s Maiyama Local Government Area won the 2024 Argungu International Fishing Festival, landing the largest catch at 59 kilogrammes. He was awarded two new Toyota vehicles from the Sokoto State Government and ₦1 million.
The second-place prize went to Abdullahi Garba of Argungu Local Government Area for a 40kg fish. He received a new Toyota saloon car donated by WACOTT Rice Mills Limited and ₦1 million. Third place was shared by Danlansu Dankani from Jega and another competitor, each of whom presented two 34kg fish to collect ₦1 million and a motorcycle.
The event’s grand finale featured President Bola Tinubu as Special Guest of Honour. He described the festival as a remarkable symbol of Nigerian unity, resilience, and coexistence. “It reflects the richness of our culture, the strength of our tradition and the opportunities that lie in harnessing our natural resources for national development,” he stated.
President Tinubu commended Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris for the successful hosting, citing effective security and organisation. He noted progress in combating insecurity but affirmed that coordinated federal and state efforts continue. “This festival is a testament to the return of stability and normalcy; we will continue to support it,” he assured.
Governor Idris thanked the President for attending and commissioning state projects. He highlighted his administration’s achievements in under three years, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ultra-Modern State Secretariat, major road constructions, renovation of 16 general hospitals, and the construction of Nigeria’s biggest veterinary hospital. He also noted timely payment of salaries and pensions.
During his remarks, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Sama’ila-Mera, apologised to the President for a protocol breach caused by a large crowd of fishermen gathering before his arrival. He underscored the festival’s cultural importance and reminded the President that the Federal Government commenced a UNESCO-recognised permanent fishing centre in 2020, a project he said has been abandoned since 2022.
The festival, held at the historic Matan Fada River, saw over 50,000 fishermen compete. Its continuation is viewed as a key indicator of improved security and a driver for cultural tourism in Nigeria’s northwestern region.
