After more than five years of silence, drums, hoofbeats and splashes have returned to the historic town of Argungu as the 2026 edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival roars back to life in grand style.
This year’s festival is more than a celebration — it is a powerful statement of cultural revival, unity and economic opportunity. From the colourful banks of River Matan Fada to the buzzing arenas of traditional sports, Kebbi State has once again positioned itself at the heart of Nigeria’s cultural tourism map.
Declaring the afternoon events open, the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Alhaji Muhammad Usman Zuru, described the moment as “remarkable and unforgettable,” praising the administration of Governor Nasir Idris for restoring a festival that had been suspended for years.
According to Zuru, the return of Argungu signals resilience and vision. “Kebbi State deserves accolades. This revival reflects our commitment to heritage, unity and economic growth,” he said to cheers from thousands of spectators.
He also commended the Argungu Emirate Council for safeguarding the cultural legacy of the festival. The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, was praised for his leadership and steady oversight throughout the planning process, ensuring the festival’s smooth organization.
A Festival of Thrills and Tradition
The 2026 edition has unfolded with a rich lineup of activities designed to blend tradition with modern engagement. Events include an Investors’ Summit aimed at boosting tourism and agribusiness, a secondary schools’ quiz competition promoting intellectual excellence, and spectacular cultural displays showcasing Kebbi’s diverse heritage.
The afternoon competitions have turned Argungu into a theatre of excitement. Camel races thundered across sandy tracks, donkey races delighted the crowd, while horse riding and archery contests revived centuries-old warrior traditions. Catapulting contests drew loud applause, and an international polo tournament added a touch of aristocratic flair.
Earlier in the day, car, bicycle and motorcycle races were ceremonially flagged off in Abuja, broadening the festival’s national footprint.
Participants have arrived from within and outside Nigeria, reinforcing Argungu’s international appeal. Winners across all events — from first to third positions — will receive trophies and prizes in cash or kind, further motivating competitors and celebrating excellence.
Unity in Diversity
Beyond competition, the festival has emerged as a grand platform of national unity. It has drawn Nigerians from different ethnic, cultural, religious and political backgrounds — all gathered under the warm Kebbi sun to celebrate a shared heritage.
Visitors have been treated to traditional music, colourful regalia, artistic craftsmanship and the unmistakable aroma of northern hospitality. Smiles cut across divides as spectators admired cultural dances, indigenous cuisines and the legendary fishing spectacle that remains the festival’s crown jewel.
The 2026 Argungu Festival stands not only as a cultural carnival but as an economic catalyst. With increased tourism, investor interest and global visibility, Kebbi State is leveraging tradition to drive development.
As splashes echo along the riverbanks and hoofbeats fade into the evening, one message rings clear: Argungu is back — stronger, prouder and more united than ever.
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