Kebbi revamps tourism sector ahead of 2026 Argungu Festival

By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, has intensified efforts to reposition the state’s tourism sector by harnessing its rich cultural heritage and natural endowments as part of his administration’s renewed development agenda.

Kebbi is renowned for hosting major annual cultural events, including the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Rigata Cultural Festival, Uhola International Cultural Festival and traditional horse racing competitions, which attract visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.

In a bid to boost tourism and stimulate investment, Governor Idris has established three new ministries and an agency focusing on solid minerals development, animal health, digital economy and investment promotion. The governor has also secured federal approval for the establishment of a Naval Base in Yauri, along the River Niger corridor, a development expected to enhance security and spur economic activities in the area.

The Special Adviser on Communication and Strategy to the Governor, Abdullahi Idris Sadaukin Zuru, disclosed in a statement that the administration is also pursuing partnerships with indigenous and foreign investors to fully harness the state’s vast agricultural, livestock and solid mineral resources.

He noted that although previous administrations—from the era of the defunct North Western State to successive governments in Kebbi—made efforts to attract investors, the desired outcomes were not fully achieved.

Analysts believe the current administration’s approach demonstrates a strong conviction that tourism and related sectors can significantly increase internally generated revenue and create more employment opportunities for residents.

Meanwhile, preparations have reached advanced stages for the 2026 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, scheduled to hold from February 11 to February 14. The festival is the first in a series of cultural events planned for the year.

The main organising committee, chaired by the Deputy Governor, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, with the support of the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, and the Director-General of the festival, Alhaji Safiyanu Garba Bena, has embarked on a comprehensive renovation of dilapidated structures and the upgrade of facilities at various event centres in Argungu.

Highlights of the festival will include exhibitions of agricultural produce, livestock and solid minerals, traditional performances, and the iconic grand fishing competition.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, traditional rulers, tourists, political leaders and business stakeholders from within and outside the country are expected to grace the historic event.

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