The Kebbi State Government has fixed February 11 to 14, 2026, for the Argungu International Fishing Festival.The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Mera, made this known to journalists on Friday after an expanded meeting of the State Festival Main Committee and the Emirate Local Organising Committee held at the Deputy Governor’s Office.
He explained that the Argungu Fishing Festival began as a peace initiative between the Sokoto Caliphate jihadists and the Kanta Kingdom. Because of its historical significance, the festival was later recognised by UNESCO as an international cultural event. The emir also recalled that after the Nigerian Civil War, the festival was used to promote national unity by bringing together fishermen from across the country during the administration of General Yakubu Gowon.
According to him, this year’s edition is expected to draw dignitaries from different parts of the world and provide an opportunity to showcase the rich cultural heritage of the Argungu Kingdom on the global stage. Speaking at the meeting, the Chairman of the State Main Committee and Deputy Governor of Kebbi State, Senator Umar Tafida, said preparations for the festival were already in progress.
He revealed that several subcommittees had been set up to ensure the smooth planning and successful execution of the event, adding that the state government had put adequate measures in place for venue preparation, hospitality, prizes for winners and other logistics. Senator Tafida urged committee members to stay committed to their duties and work hard towards making the festival a success.
Source: https://lagostelevision.com/
