The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, has officially invited the Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, to the forthcoming Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival scheduled to take place in February 2026 in Kebbi State.
The invitation was extended during a courtesy visit to the Minister’s office in Abuja on Friday, October 31st, where the Emir highlighted the historical and cultural importance of the globally renowned festival, recognized by UNESCO as part of the world’s intangible cultural heritage.
According to the Emir, the festival symbolizes reconciliation, friendship, and cultural pride, forming a vital part of the identity of the Argungu people. He noted the continuous growth of the event in scale and participation, stressing the need for improved infrastructure and expanded facilities to accommodate visitors and participants.
He acknowledged ongoing efforts by the Kebbi State Government to upgrade the festival grounds and appealed to the Ministry to mobilize support from relevant agencies and the private sector to enhance the 2026 edition.
Representing the Honourable Minister, Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, appreciated the Emir’s visit and invitation, commending his enduring commitment to preserving the Argungu Festival as a beacon of Nigeria’s cultural diversity and unity.
He assured that the Federal Government remains committed to ensuring the festival’s success, noting that the Ministry will partner with relevant agencies and the private sector, including the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN), to provide venue upgrades, logistical support, and enhanced national and international marketing.
Dr. Mukhtar also urged FTAN to mobilize its members to actively participate in promoting and supporting the iconic event.
In his remarks, Mr. Ola Awakan, Director-General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), praised the Emir’s efforts in sustaining the festival’s legacy and reaffirmed the NTDA’s readiness to support the event.
Similarly, Mr. Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), applauded the Emir’s leadership, emphasizing that the Argungu Festival remains a powerful platform for projecting Nigeria on the global cultural tourism map.
FTAN President, Dr. Aliyu Badaki, also pledged private sector participation, assuring that FTAN would mobilize travel agents, tour operators, and key stakeholders to ensure the festival’s success.
The highlight of the visit was the presentation of the Argungu Festival Compendium to the Permanent Secretary on behalf of the Honourable Minister.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with traditional institutions, state governments, and the private sector to promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and advance the nation’s tourism industry.
