Largest Fish at Argungu Festival Weighs 59kg

The 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival at Mata Fada in Argungu, Kebbi State, recorded its largest catch this year: a fish weighing 59 kilograms.

Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, confirmed the record, noting the impressive scale of this year’s competition. 

Thousands of fishermen, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts from across Nigeria and beyond flocked to the river, with excitement peaking as around 40,000 participants rushed into the waters for the competition. 

Prior to the festival, President Tinubu visited Birnin Kebbi, the state capital, to commission two major infrastructure projects: the newly built State Secretariat and the upgraded Central Motor Park. 

He then proceeded to Argungu to formally inaugurate the festival.

Established in 1934 to commemorate peace between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom, the Argungu Fishing Festival has grown into a globally recognised cultural event. 

The festival features fishing competitions alongside traditional music, dance, wrestling, arts, and crafts, attracting participants and spectators from around the world.