Afon’s annual fishing festival on 23rd February 2025 attracted tourists from 10 states, boosting Asa’s profile as a key tourism destination in Kwara

The Afon Fishing Festival, a centuries-old tradition, made waves in Asa, Kwara on Sunday, 23rd February 2025, as it attracted a diverse group of visitors, including tourists from over 10 states, content creators, and key government officials.

The festival, held along the scenic banks of the Asa River, is gaining increasing prominence as a cultural and tourism hub.

Initially promoted in 2023 by Jamiu Balogun, an indigene of Afon, in collaboration with Visit Kwara, a tourism promotion platform, the festival has steadily grown in popularity, drawing attention from both local and international audiences.

Balogun, the lead organizer of the event, expressed his excitement about the growing recognition of the festival, crediting its success to strategic tourism packaging.

In an interview with reporters at the event, Balogun emphasized the need for continued government support, including assistance from national and international tourism organizations.

He highlighted the Asa River’s historical and cultural significance, noting that it connects over 20 communities in the Asa Local Government Area.

The festival’s success was also reflected in the presence of several dignitaries and traditional leaders. Mall. Hanafi Kola Balogun, the District Head of Afon and Chairman of Traditional Rulers in Asa Local Government, spoke passionately about the festival’s longstanding legacy.

As a custodian of the tradition, he emphasized his commitment to raising the festival’s profile on the global stage.

He further mentioned that ongoing efforts to engage with the state government had led to the attendance of several government officials, underscoring the importance of the festival in promoting local culture and boosting tourism in the region.

Alhaji Shehu Amasa Yahaya, Chairman of Asa Local Government, echoed this sentiment, stressing how tourism could play a crucial role in driving the local economy, especially when compared to larger cities like Ilorin, the state capital.

Yahaya also reaffirmed the area council’s commitment to supporting the festival’s growth and its positive economic impact on the community.

The festival also garnered attention from the Chief Fisher Head of Afon, Alhaji Alabi Abdullahi Laraba, who expressed his pride in the festival’s development during his reign.

Laraba emphasized the importance of preserving the festival for future generations, ensuring its cultural significance remains intact.

Among the many distinguished guests at the festival were Honourable Lateef Gidado Alakawa, Chairman of the Niger River Lower Basin, Alhaji Issa Amosa, Chairman of Afon Community, and other notable figures, including Alhaji Abdulraman Abdulrasaq, Alhaji Ganiyu Atebise, and Hon. Sulaiman Lekan Gadaff, highlighting the widespread support from both the community and government.

In addition to the traditional fishing competitions, the festival offered a variety of activities to engage visitors.

One of the highlights was a mountain climbing tour to Odoode Hills, located in the Afon District. The tour attracted not only tourists but also content creators, safari enthusiasts, and government officials eager to explore potential new tourist destinations.

Brighton Udezi, a member of BMW GS Nigeria—a biking safari group—was among those who marveled at the breathtaking views of the Odoode Hills.

His team, along with other attendees, were captivated by the scenic beauty of the area, which is quickly gaining recognition as a must-see location for adventure and nature tourism.

Damilola Amolegbe, the Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Education Trust Fund, also took part in the mountain tour.

She expressed her delight in the experience, highlighting the tour as a perfect opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of the region while promoting local tourism.

The Afon Fishing Festival is not just a celebration of tradition—it is a testament to the growing tourism potential of Asa and Kwara State.

With continued government support and community involvement, the festival promises to become a key fixture on the national and international tourism calendar.