Kebbi Fisherman Triumphs At Argungu Fishing Festival, Bags ₦1 Million And Two Cars With 59kg Record Catch

According to Ireporter Online, Abubakar Usman, a fisherman from Maiyama Local Government Area in Kebbi State, emerged as the grand prize winner at the Argungu International Fishing Festival on Saturday after landing a massive 59-kilogram fish. Usman received two brand-new Toyota vehicles provided by the Sokoto State Government alongside a cash prize of ₦1 million.

The second-place position was secured by Abdullahi Garba from Argungu Local Government Area, who caught a 40-kilogram fish. He was awarded a Toyota saloon car sponsored by WACOTT Rice Mills Limited and ₦1 million in cash. Third place was shared between Danlansu Dankani from Jega and another contestant, each presenting a 34-kilogram fish. Both received ₦1 million and a motorcycle.

Speaking at the festival’s grand finale, President Bola Tinubu hailed the event as a remarkable cultural showcase, emphasizing its role in promoting unity and peaceful coexistence. He commended Kebbi State for its organization and security arrangements, noting that well-managed socio-cultural events can become major tourist attractions. Tinubu also highlighted ongoing efforts by federal and state governments to tackle insecurity across the country.

The President further praised Kebbi Governor Nasir Idris for his achievements, including naming the Ultra-Modern State Secretariat after him. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting the festival and sustaining national security initiatives.

Governor Idris, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the President for attending the festival and commissioning key projects. He detailed significant accomplishments of his administration in under three years, stating that over 80% of his campaign promises had been fulfilled. Projects include the 25,000-capacity Bola Ahmed Tinubu Ultra-Modern State Secretariat, multiple road construction and rehabilitation projects, renovation of 16 general hospitals, a major veterinary hospital, distribution of 50,000 tonnes of fertilizer, and provision of modern farming equipment. He also assured that all salaries, pensions, and other benefits remained up to date.

The Emir of Argungu, Muhammad Sama’ila-Mera, apologized for a protocol breach before the President’s arrival. He described the festival as more than a fishing competition, noting its significance in showcasing Kebbi’s rich cultural heritage. The Emir also reminded the President of the UNESCO-recognized permanent fishing centre initiated in 2020, which has been abandoned since 2022.