The 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival (AIFF) has kicked off in grand style in Kebbi State, Nigeria. The festival opened with a colorful display of traditional sports, including archery, catapulting, camel and donkey racing, local wrestling, and a polo competition, drawing large crowds and attention from within and outside Nigeria.

Traditional rulers, led by the Emir of Argungu, His Royal Highness Alhaji Ismail Muhammad Mera, graced the occasion, alongside other emirs from across Nigeria and neighboring Niger Republic. Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State expressed delight at the vibrant cultural showcase, describing the festival as a vital platform for preserving Kebbi State’s cultural heritage and promoting unity and peaceful coexistence.

The festival features a range of activities, including the highly anticipated Grand Fishing Finale, where fishermen will compete to catch the largest fish using traditional tools. Other events include canoe racing, wild duck catching, skin diving, and cultural parades.

The Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival is recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and is one of Africa’s foremost cultural events, promoting heritage preservation, tourism development, unity, and economic growth.