By: Abba Onyekachukwu, Abuja.

The Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi State has demonstrated the power of tourism to drive economic growth and social cohesion, offering a model for Nigeria’s development.

The festival, recognized by UNESCO and dating back to 1934, attracted domestic and international visitors, showcasing the rich Hausa traditions of the region through music, dance, and cultural performances.

Dr. Ola Awakan, head of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), hailed the event as a testament to tourism’s role in economic revival and social cohesion, saying it had transformed Kebbi State into a cultural powerhouse.

Local businesses benefited from increased patronage, highlighting tourism’s potential as a pillar for prosperity. The festival’s success was a result of investments in stability, proving that when insecurity recedes, cultural assets like Argungu can flourish.

President Bola Tinubu, who attended the grand finale, described the gathering as “more than a festival” – a vivid demonstration of people reclaiming their peace. He pledged continued backing for tourism, agriculture, and security measures that enable such events to thrive.

“Nigeria is moving forward – peace by peace, harvest by harvest, community by community,” President Tinubu said, emphasizing the federal government’s commitment to supporting states like Kebbi.

The Argungu Festival serves as a beacon of unity and shared identity, showcasing Nigeria’s diverse heritage to global audiences. 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.

The success of the Argungu Festival validates the government’s Renewed Hope agenda, demonstrating that tourism can be a catalyst for lasting peace and economic growth in Nigeria.

Photograph at the festival