Argungu, Kebbi State: Argungu roared back to life in spectacular fashion on Saturday as Mr Abubakar Usman of Maiyama, Kebbi State, hauled a massive 59‑kilogram fish from the historic Matan Fada River — a catch that earned him two brand‑new Toyota cars, ₦1 million cash, and the crown of champion at Nigeria’s iconic fishing festival.
The second position went to Abdullahi Garba from Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi, who caught a fish weighing 40kg and was rewarded with one brand-new Toyota saloon car donated by WACOTT Rice Miles Limited and N1 million.
The third position went to Danlansu Dankani from Jega, with one other person who tallied by presenting two fish weighing 34kg each, who went home with N1 million and a motorcycle each.
Speaking at the grand finale of the event, the Special Guest of Honour, President Bola Tinubu, described it as a remarkable historical milestone and a festival that remains a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence amongst Nigerians.
He said it highlights the richness of culture, the strength of tradition, and the potential for development from natural resources.
“Let me once again commend the government and the people of Kebbi for successfully hosting this year’s festival. The organisation, security arrangements and internal outlook of the event demonstrate what is possible when leadership is purposeful and inclusive.
“Thank you, Mr Governor, you are a team leader, and you are demonstrating it. A socio-cultural event like this can only thrive and become a tourist attraction when the security atmosphere is conducive.
He noted progress in addressing insecurity across Kebbi and other regions.
He added that efforts continue among different levels of government and security agencies.
The President eulogised Governor Nasir Idris for the landmark achievements recorded and appreciated him for naming the Ultra-Modern State Secretariat after him.
Tinubu assured that the fight against insecurity would be won so that people would go about their normal businesses peacefully without hindrance.
“This festival is a testament to the return of stability and normalcy. We will continue to support it and encourage it,” he assured.
In his speech, Kebbi Governor appreciated Tinubu for honouring his invitation not only to witness the Argungu International Fishing Festival but also for his benevolence in commissioning some developmental projects in the state.
He said the present administration had recorded giant strides across key sectors of Kebbi development in just less than three years, adding that his administration had fulfilled over 80 per cent of its campaign promises.
He listed some of the achievements, including a 25,000-capacity Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ultra-Modern State Secretariat, construction of a three-lane Super Highway on Emir Haruna Way, reconstruction of a three-lane dual carriageway from Abdullahi Fodio Roundabout to City Gate, and construction of a carriageway from Ambursa to Sir Ahmad Bello International Airport.
Others, according to him, include the reconstruction of the 87-kilometre Koko-Dabai-Zuru Road, the total renovation and upgrade of 16 general hospitals, the construction of the biggest veterinary hospital in Nigeria, the provision of 50,000 tons of fertiliser to farmers free, the provision of power tillers, CNG pumping machines, and other farming inputs, among others.
He noted that the state government was up to date in the payment of salaries, gratuity, pension and death benefits to all categories of workers.
Before the President’s arrival, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Muhammad Sama’ila-Mera, apologised to Tinubu and other distinguished personalities for the breach of protocol.
Over 50,000 fishermen surged into the historic Matan Fada River in Argungu ahead of the President’s scheduled arrival.
Some of the competing fishermen had been anxiously waiting at the designated competition point since 5:00a.m.
The Emir said the fishing festival was not just a fishing celebration but an event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Kebbi people.
He reminded the president that the Federal Government had commenced construction of a permanent fishing centre in 2020, a centre recognised by UNESCO.
The Emir, however, lamented that the construction work had been abandoned since 2022.
