By Ekuson Nw’Ogbunka, Abuja
The Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi State has demonstrated that tourism can be a powerful catalyst for lasting peace and economic growth in Nigeria. The festival, which was attended by President Bola Tinubu, attracted domestic and international visitors who experienced authentic Nigerian heritage and culture.
The Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA) led by Dr. Ola Awakan has hailed the Argungu Festival as a model for tourism-driven economic revival and social cohesion. The event transformed Kebbi State into a cultural powerhouse, benefiting local businesses and reinforcing tourism as a pillar for prosperity.
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The festival’s success is a testament to the federal government’s commitment to supporting states like Kebbi in promoting tourism, agriculture, and security measures that enable such events to thrive. President Tinubu described the gathering as “more than a festival”—a vivid demonstration of people reclaiming their peace.
The Argungu Fishing Festival is a UNESCO-recognized festival with roots dating back to 1934 as a marker of peace between the former Sokoto Caliphate and Kebbi Kingdom. The 2026 edition proved no different, as communities celebrated without fear, showcasing rich Hausa traditions through music, dance, and cultural performances.
The festival highlighted tourism’s role in commerce, with local businesses benefiting from increased patronage. The event also reinforced tourism as a pillar for prosperity, demonstrating that when communities reclaim their traditions in safety, the entire nation reaps the rewards.
The NTDA remains dedicated to partnering with states to revive and sustain such festivals, ensuring they serve as platforms for unity, cultural preservation, and inclusive development.
President Tinubu pledged continued backing for tourism, noting that “Nigeria is moving forward—peace by peace, harvest by harvest, community by community.” The festival’s success validates investments in stability, proving that when insecurity recedes, cultural assets like Argungu can flourish and contribute meaningfully to national renewal under the Renewed Hope agenda.
The Argungu example offers a compelling model for Nigeria’s tourism sector, demonstrating that tourism is not merely entertainment but a catalyst for lasting peace and economic growth.
