Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State is pushing for international recognition of the Nwonyo Traditional Fishing Festival, with efforts underway to secure UNESCO listing.

The festival, held at Lake Nwonyo in Ibi Local Government Area, returned in April 2024 after a 14-year pause and ran its 2026 edition this month. The event drew tourists and dignitaries from Nigeria and abroad, including representatives for President Bola Tinubu and the Prime Minister of Grenada.

At the 2026 edition, President Tinubu, represented by Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the Federal Government is committed to repositioning festivals like Nwonyo as global tourism destinations. He added that work is ongoing to obtain UNESCO recognition, describing cultural festivals as key economic drivers beyond their heritage value.

Governor Kefas said the Nwonyo celebration unites communities and reflects the history and identity of the people. He noted that his administration has deliberately elevated the festival as a tool for cultural diplomacy and engagement, aiming to position Taraba as a safe destination for tourism and investment. The 2026 edition featured a boat regatta and a fishing competition, with the top catch weighing 55.6 kilograms and earning a N10 million prize.

The Nwonyo festival dates back to 1816 and was suspended after 2010 due to security and administrative challenges before its recent revival.