Tinubu Hails AIFF as Historic, Commends Gov. Idris for Purposeful Leadership
Tinubu Hails AIFF as Historic, Commends Gov. Idris for Purposeful Leadership
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival (AIFF) as a “very good show” and a celebration of remarkable history, praising its enduring cultural significance and national relevance.
The President also commended the leadership of Governor Nasir Idris, describing his administration as purposeful, visionary, and people-centred, with a clear commitment to development and unity in Kebbi State.
President Tinubu made these remarks at the grand finale of the 61st AIFF held at the historic fishing arena in Matan Fada, Argungu, shortly after commissioning key development projects executed by the Kebbi State Government.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception accorded him, the President thanked the people and government of Kebbi State for the honour of naming the newly commissioned state-of-the-art secretariat after him, describing it as an edifice of unity, comfort, and administrative excellence.
He acknowledged the presence of several state governors, members of the National Assembly, the Kebbi State Executive Council, judiciary officials, traditional rulers, captains of industry, religious leaders, and fishermen from across the country, noting that their participation reflected national solidarity and respect for culture.
President Tinubu paid special tribute to traditional institutions, including the Sultanate and the Argungu Emirate, praying for continued wisdom, peace, and good health for traditional leaders, while commending their role in preserving culture and fostering harmony.
Highlighting the significance of the festival, the President noted that the Argungu Fishing Festival has endured for over eight decades, standing as a powerful symbol of unity, resilience, peaceful coexistence, and the rich cultural heritage of the Nigerian people.
He praised the organisation, security arrangements, and overall outlook of the 2026 edition, stressing that such success is only possible where leadership is inclusive and purposeful. He thanked Governor Nasir Idris for demonstrating effective team leadership in hosting a world-class cultural event.
On security, President Tinubu expressed satisfaction with the relative peace enjoyed in Kebbi State and parts of the region, attributing it to sustained investments in security, intelligence gathering, and collaboration between the federal and state governments and security agencies.
He assured Nigerians that the fight against banditry and insurgency would be won, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to ensuring that farmers, fishermen, traders, and families can go about their livelihoods without fear, describing the festival as evidence of returning stability and normalcy.
Speaking earlier, Governor Nasir Idris described the Argungu Festival as a global heritage and a unifying force for Kebbi State.
He highlighted major achievements of his administration, including massive investments in infrastructure, healthcare, education, agriculture, and workers’ welfare, as well as the successful implementation of the new minimum wage in line with the President’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
In his remarks, the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, described the festival as a symbol of courage, reconciliation, and national unity, while appealing for federal support to complete the abandoned festival event centre to safeguard the UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage site.
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Senator Abubakar Umar Tafida, thanked President Tinubu for his historic presence, Governor Nasir Idris for unwavering support, and all sponsors and security agencies.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of prizes to winners, with Abubakar Usman from Maiyama LGA emerging first with a 59kg fish, followed by Abdullahi Garba of Argungu with a 40kg catch, while Dan Lamso Dankane of Jega LGA and Hon. Dauda of Augie LGA jointly placed third with 33kg each.
