By Lanre Shodimu
The Argungu fishing festival, widely acknowledged as symbol of unity and cultural heritage in northern people of Nigeria, attracting participants from across the country each year, came to a close with a winner of a 59 kilogram fish emerging as the biggest catch at the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing Festival, held in Argungu, Kebbi State on Saturday.
The development was announced by Sunday Dare, special adviser on media and publicity to the president, in a post on X.
The record catch was made by Abubakar Usman from Maiyama Local Government Area during the main fishing competition at the Matan Fada River.
His catch earned him the top prize at the annual cultural event, attracting thousands of local and international tourists.
The second place was Abdullahi Garba from Argungu secured the position with a 40kg fish, while Nasir Garba and another contestant tied for third place after landing 33kg fish each.
The organisers said the overall winner will receive two vehicles, a cash prize of N1 million and other items, while runners-up will also be rewarded with cash and material prizes.
Originally conceived to mark peace between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom, the festival, which dates back to 1934, is one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural events.
It has also evolved into a major tourist attraction.
Beyond the fishing contest, different activities were organised at the multi-day celebration, including traditional wrestling, cultural dances, music performances and exhibitions of local crafts.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu attended the event as part of his working visits to Kebbi State, where he commissioned important projects.
