BIRN-KEBBI: A fisherman, Abubakar Usman, has emerged winner of the 2026 Argungu fishing competition after catching a 59-kilogram fish at the historic festival in Argungu, Kebbi.
Usman, who hails from Maiyama Local Government Area, received two brand-new Toyota vehicles donated by the Sokoto State Government along with a cash prize of N1 million.
The second prize went to Abdullahi Garba, who landed a 40kg fish. He was rewarded with a Toyota saloon car donated by WACOTT Rice Miles Limited and N1 million cash.
Third position was shared by two fishermen who each presented 34kg fish and were given N1 million and a motorcycle apiece.
Speaking at the event’s grand finale, President Bola Tinubu described the festival as a symbol of unity, resilience and peaceful coexistence among Nigerians. He said the event reflects the country’s rich cultural heritage and its tourism potential, while reaffirming government commitment to tackling insecurity nationwide.
Governor Nasir Idris thanked the president for attending and highlighted infrastructure, healthcare and agricultural achievements recorded by his administration, including fertiliser distribution to farmers and hospital upgrades.
The Emir of Argungu also noted that the Federal Government’s permanent fishing centre project recognised by UNESCO has remained stalled since 2022, urging renewed attention to the project.
The festival drew more than 50,000 fishermen to the Matan Fada River, underscoring its continued importance as both a cultural showcase and a growing tourist attraction in northern Nigeria.
