President Bola Tinubu will on Saturday embark on a one-day official visit to Kebbi State, where he is expected to inaugurate projects carried out by Governor Nasir Idris and also headline the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, disclosed this in a statement on Friday titled, “President Tinubu Embarks on One-Day Official Visit to Kebbi State.”
According to the statement, President Tinubu will serve as the special guest of honour at the 2026 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, one of Nigeria’s most famous cultural events.
This will be President Tinubu’s first official visit to Kebbi State since assuming office in May 2023.
While details of the projects to be inaugurated were not fully listed in the statement, the visit is expected to highlight the Kebbi State Government’s efforts in infrastructure and development under Governor Idris.
Since taking office in 2023, Governor Idris has focused on improving roads, schools, and other public facilities in the state. The commissioning of projects by the President is seen as a sign of support from the Federal Government for development efforts in the state.
Kebbi State, located in Nigeria’s North-West region, is known for farming, fishing, and animal rearing. It shares borders with Niger Republic and Benin Republic, making it important for trade and cross-border activities.
The major highlight of the President’s visit will be his participation in the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The festival is held annually in Argungu town and attracts thousands of visitors from across Nigeria and beyond. It is staged by the riverside of the historic Matan Fada area, a site recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The Argungu festival is not just about fishing. It is a celebration of culture, unity, and tradition. Events usually include a grand fishing competition, cultural dances, music performances, local wrestling, and displays of traditional crafts.
The fishing competition is the main attraction. Fishermen jump into the river with large nets, trying to catch the biggest fish within a limited time. The winner often goes home with cash prizes, vehicles, and other rewards.
The festival also marks the end of the farming season. It is a time when communities come together to celebrate a successful harvest and give thanks.
The Argungu festival has deep historical roots. It was first held in 1934 as a peace-building effort between the former Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom. At the time, the event was meant to strengthen unity and end long-standing disputes between the two sides.
Over the years, the festival has grown from a local event into an international celebration. Today, it is regarded as one of Africa’s most celebrated cultural festivals.
The recognition of the festival’s cultural value by UNESCO has further increased its global profile. It has also boosted tourism in Kebbi State, bringing economic benefits to local traders, hotels, and transport operators.
In recent years, the festival has been temporarily suspended at different times due to security concerns and the COVID-19 pandemic. However, its return has been welcomed by many Nigerians who see it as an important symbol of cultural pride and unity.
During the festival period, hotels and guest houses in and around Argungu record high bookings. Traders sell food, clothing, and local crafts, while transport operators experience increased demand.
The festival also helps to promote peaceful coexistence among different ethnic groups. People from various parts of Nigeria attend the event, making it a meeting point for cultures and traditions.
President Tinubu’s presence at this year’s event is expected to draw even more attention to the festival and to Kebbi State as a tourist destination.
Saturday’s trip marks President Tinubu’s first visit to Kebbi State since he became President. Political analysts say the visit is significant, as it shows the administration’s interest in engaging with different regions of the country.
The North-West remains an important political and economic zone in Nigeria. By attending the Argungu festival and commissioning projects, the President is expected to interact with traditional rulers, political leaders, and community members.
As preparations reach their final stage, residents of Argungu and other parts of Kebbi State are looking forward to receiving the President and celebrating one of Nigeria’s most treasured cultural events.
With the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival set to take place, attention will be on Kebbi State this weekend, as tradition, culture, and governance come together in one historic visit.