A fisherman, Abubakar Usman, from Maiyama Local Government Area of Kebbi State, on Saturday emerged winner of the iconic grand prize at the Argungu International Fishing Festival after catching a fish weighing 59 kilogrammes.
Naija News understands that the champion went home with two brand new Toyota vehicles donated by the Sokoto State Government and a cash prize of ₦1 million.
The second position was clinched by Abdullahi Garba from Argungu Local Government Area, who caught a fish weighing 40kg. He was rewarded with a brand new Toyota saloon car donated by WACOTT Rice Mills Limited and ₦1m cash.
The third position went to Danlansu Dankani from Jega and another contestant who tied with him after presenting two fishes weighing 34kg each. They received ₦1m and a motorcycle each.
Speaking earlier at the grand finale, the Special Guest of Honour and President, Bola Tinubu, described the festival as a remarkable cultural heritage and a symbol of unity and peaceful coexistence.
“It reflects the richness of our culture, the strength of our tradition and the opportunities that lie in harnessing our natural resources for national development.
“Let me once again commend the government and the people of Kebbi for successfully hosting this year’s festival. The organisation, security arrangements and internal outlook of the event demonstrate what is possible when leadership is purposeful and inclusive.
“Thank you, Mr Governor, you are a team leader, and you are demonstrating it. A socio-cultural event like this can only thrive and become a tourist attraction when the security atmosphere is conducive,” he said.
Tinubu added that progress had been made in tackling insecurity across the state and other parts of the country.
“We are still working hard through coordinated efforts between the Federal Government, state government, and security agencies,” he said.
The President also praised Governor Nasir Idris for his achievements and appreciated him for naming the Ultra-Modern State Secretariat after him, assuring that the fight against insecurity would be sustained.
“This festival is a testament to the return of stability and normalcy; we will continue to support it and encourage it,” Tinubu said.
In his remarks, Idris thanked the President for honouring his invitation and commissioning key projects in the state.
He said his administration had recorded significant strides across key sectors within less than three years, adding that over 80 per cent of his campaign promises had been fulfilled.
According to him, projects delivered include the 25,000-capacity Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ultra-Modern State Secretariat, a three-lane super highway on Emir Haruna Way, reconstruction of a dual carriageway from Abdullahi Fodio Roundabout to City Gate, and a road linking Ambursa to Sir Ahmadu Bello International Airport.
He also listed the reconstruction of the 87-kilometre Koko-Dabai-Zuru Road, renovation and upgrade of 16 general hospitals, construction of a major veterinary hospital, free distribution of 50,000 tonnes of fertiliser to farmers, and provision of power tillers and CNG-powered farming equipment.
The governor added that the state remained up to date in the payment of salaries, pensions, gratuities and death benefits.
Emir Apologises Over Protocol Breach
The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Sama’ila-Mera, apologised to the President and other dignitaries for a breach of protocol that occurred before Tinubu’s arrival.
Naija News learnt that more than 50,000 fishermen had reportedly gathered at the historic Matan Fada River ahead of the President’s scheduled appearance, with some contestants arriving at the venue as early as 5:00 a.m.
The monarch described the festival as more than a fishing contest, saying it showcases the rich cultural heritage of the people of Kebbi.
He also reminded the President that the Federal Government began constructing a permanent fishing centre in 2020, recognised by UNESCO, but lamented that the project had been abandoned since 2022.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
