By Chimdiogo Amuh 

The iconic Argungu Fishing Festival has made a celebrated return after years of suspension, drawing thousands of fishermen and spectators to the banks of the Matan Fada River in northwestern Nigeria.

The annual contest, held in Kebbi State, showcased traditional fishing techniques as participants were restricted to hand-woven nets, calabash gourds and, in some cases, bare hands. The river, which remains closed to fishing throughout the year under the watch of the Sarkin Ruwa (water chief), was opened exclusively for the festival’s grand finale.

President Bola Tinubu attended the event, joining cheering crowds despite lingering security concerns that have reduced turnout in recent years. Organisers described the festival’s return as a symbol of renewed stability and cultural pride.

This year’s competition produced a standout moment when local fisherman Abubakar Usman landed a massive 59kg croaker fish, earning top honours, cash rewards and vehicles. Many other participants sold their catches at temporary markets, providing a boost to the local economy.

Beyond fishing, the festival featured traditional wrestling, music and cultural displays, reinforcing its status as one of Nigeria’s most important heritage events. First held in 1934 to mark peace between the Argungu emirate and the Sokoto Caliphate, the festival ran uninterrupted for decades before insecurity and infrastructure challenges forced its suspension in 2010. A brief revival in 2020 was followed by another pause until this year.

While concerns about safety persist, community leaders say the festival’s revival has restored hope and pride among locals, reaffirming Argungu’s place as a symbol of unity, tradition and resilience.