Kebbi Deputy Governor Intensifies Oversight on Argungu fishing festival sites
By JAMIL GULMA, Kebbi
Rehabilitation work on the event sites and infrastructure for the highly anticipated Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival is in its advanced stages, with officials expressing confidence in being ready for the festival’s commencement on 11th February 2026.
The progress was confirmed during a thorough inspection tour on Friday led by the Kebbi State Deputy Governor and Chairman of the Central Planning Committee of the Festival, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida. This marks his second on-the-ground assessment at the festival sites within a single week, underscoring the administration’s commitment to a successful event.
Accompanied by the Director General of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Alhaji Sufiyanu Garba Bena and the Secretary to the Kebbi State Government, Alhaji Yakubu Bala Tafida, the Deputy Governor expressed delight at the significant pace of work observed across the various locations. He however, urged all contractors to maintain momentum and work round the clock to ensure all projects are finalized by the deadline.
Senator Umar Tafida commended the contractors for their dedication and efforts to deliver quality work on the projects. He added that we are pleased with what we have seen so far. He said the commitment to excellence is evident, but we must all push a little harder to cross the finish line in time for the world to witness the splendour of Argungu.
The inspection team visited key venues central to the festival’s activities. These included the iconic Matan Fada river grand fishing site, the Kabanci Display site for traditional water sports, the historic Kanta Museum, the Governor’s Lodge, the Agricultural Fair Ground, and the Durbar site, among other critical facilities.
The Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival is a world-renowned celebration of tradition, drawing thousands of visitors and participants from across the globe. It showcases a rich tapestry of cultural displays, historical re-enactments, agricultural exhibitions, and the famous frenetic fishing competition in the Matan Fada River.
With the February 11th date fast approaching, the accelerated preparatory work and high-level supervisory visits indicate a strong drive by the Kebbi State Government under the able leadership of Governor Nasir Idris Kauran Gwandu to host a seamless and memorable festival that will boost cultural tourism and economic activity in the region.
