The 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival was held in Kebbi State, Nigeria. The event not only showcased cultural traditions but was also positioned as a sign of improved security in Nigeria and a key platform for promoting rural economic development. Through this event, President Bola Tinubu emphasized the close connection between peace, productivity, and national development.
The four-day Argungu Festival attracted over 50,000 fishermen from Nigeria and neighboring countries. Activities included cultural exhibitions, water competitions, traditional boxing, and dance performances, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Tinubu pointed out that the broad participation in this event reflects increased public confidence in public safety. He said, "This is thanks to our continuous investment in security operations, intelligence gathering, and community engagement, as well as effective collaboration between federal and state governments." The progress in security has laid the foundation for economic recovery, which is particularly crucial for rural communities dependent on agriculture, fishing, and local trade.
The President combined Kebbi State's cultural heritage with its economic function, describing it as a key contributor to national food security and rural livelihoods. He stated that strengthening federal-state cooperation would focus not only on agricultural production but also on promoting tourism to boost local income and employment. Tinubu said, "The Argungu Festival is not just a continuation of tradition; it is a bridge integrating culture, tourism, and agriculture into Nigeria's broader development strategy."
On the day of the event, Tinubu also launched a series of infrastructure projects in Birnin Kebbi, including the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Secretariat Complex, a modern motor park, a three-lane dual-carriageway, the Kauran Gwandu College of Nursing and Midwifery Sciences in Ambursa, and the widened old Argungu Bypass Road. These initiatives aim to support regional development.
Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris stated that the Argungu Festival would continue to serve as an effective tool for cultural preservation, tourism promotion, and community economic empowerment. He said, "The state government is committed to leveraging cultural platforms to drive overall progress, attract investment, and strengthen rural livelihoods." Through such events, Nigeria is striving to translate security progress into sustainable rural economic revitalization.
