President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday, February 14, 2026, attended the 61st Argungu International Fishing Festival in Kebbi State, describing the 83-year-old cultural event as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence.
Speaking at the ceremony, Tinubu highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and the potential of its natural and human resources for national development.
“This festival has endured for 83 years, and it stands as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, and peaceful coexistence among our people,” Tinubu said.
“It reflects the richness of our culture, the strength of our traditions, and the opportunities that lie in properly harnessing our natural and human resources for national development.”
The President commended the improved security atmosphere in Kebbi and other parts of the country, which enabled the festival to thrive and attract participants and tourists.
“A socio-cultural event like this can only thrive and become a tourism attraction where the security atmosphere is conducive. I am pleased to note that significant progress has been made in combating insecurity across Kebbi and other parts of our nation,” he stated.
Tinubu attributed the relative peace to deliberate efforts involving intelligence gathering, community engagement, and coordinated action between the Federal Government, state governments, and security agencies.
“The peace we are witnessing today in this region is not accidental; it is the outcome of intelligence gathering and community engagement,” he added.
He assured Nigerians that the fight against banditry, insurgency, and other forms of insecurity would be won, allowing farmers, fishermen, traders, and families to carry out their activities without fear.
The Argungu Fishing Festival, held annually between February and March, marks the start of the fishing season in Argungu, a riverside town in Kebbi State. Thousands of fishermen compete for the largest catch in the Matan Fada River.
This year’s winner, Abubakar Usman from Mayama in Kebbi State, caught a fish weighing 59 kilograms. Abdullahi Garba from Argungu took second place with 40 kilograms, while Danlanso Dangani from Jega and Dogo Dauda tied for third with catches of 33 kilograms each.
The event was attended by Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris (the host), as well as governors from Imo, Borno, Sokoto, Jigawa, and other dignitaries.
Video footage captured President Tinubu watching in awe as thousands of fishermen dived into the river with skill and determination, showcasing a classic display of Nigerian tradition and cultural pride.
