Thousands of fishermen surged into the milky waters of the Matan Fadan River in Argungu, northwestern Nigeria, as the renowned Argungu International Fishing Festival made its long-awaited return.
The river, which winds through lush landscape in Kebbi State, is a designated UNESCO heritage site and remains closed to fishing throughout the year. It is overseen by a traditional authority known as the Sarkin Ruwa, or water chief, until the annual competition opens its waters to thousands of participants.
On Saturday, President Bola Tinubu joined spectators to cheer on competitors battling for the largest catch, despite lingering security concerns that kept some visitors away.
Tradition at the heart of competition
Fishermen relied strictly on traditional tools — hand-woven nets and calabash gourds — while some demonstrated remarkable skill by catching fish with their bare hands. Canoes dotted the river as participants waded through the water in tightly packed groups.
This year’s champion hauled in a 59-kilogram croaker, earning the top cash prize. Many other competitors sold their catch immediately after the contest, injecting fresh activity into the local economy.
For 63-year-old participant Aliyu Muhammadu, the experience was deeply personal.
“I thank God that I got something to take home to my family to eat. I am very happy that I came,” he said.
A festival rooted in history
The Argungu Fishing Festival dates back to 1934. It was established to mark peace between the historic Sokoto Caliphate and the Argungu Emirate, ending years of conflict.
Over time, it grew into one of West Africa’s most celebrated cultural gatherings, symbolising unity and heritage. Beyond fishing, the festival features traditional wrestling, music performances, and vibrant cultural displays.
The event ran continuously for decades before being suspended in 2010 due to infrastructure challenges and worsening insecurity in northern Nigeria. It briefly resumed in 2020 but was halted again until its revival this year.
Security concerns linger
Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, particularly in the north, where armed attacks have claimed thousands of lives over the years.
President Tinubu described the festival’s return as evidence of improving stability. However, local leaders acknowledge that fear still affects attendance.
“Our challenge now is that people are scared of coming. A lot of people don’t attend the event like before because of insecurity,” said Hussein Mukwashe, the Sarkin Ruwa of Argungu.
Even so, for many residents, the festival’s revival signals renewed pride and resilience — a reminder of tradition’s power to bring communities together.
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