NTDA Director General Olayiwola Awakan pledges full support for the 2026 Argungu International Fishing Festival, celebrating unity and heritage

Olayiwola Awakan, Director General of the Nigerian Tourism Development Authority (NTDA), has expressed the Authority’s full support for the upcoming 61st Argungu International Fishing Festival (AFF 2026), describing it as a celebration of Nigeria’s unity, peace, and heritage.

Also read: Argungu International Fishing Festival 2026 Prep Begins

Awakan joined dignitaries at a high-level courtesy visit led by His Royal Highness, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, CON, the Emir of Argungu, as preparations intensify for the globally acclaimed event.

The meeting, chaired by Dr. Mukhtar Yawale Muhammad, MFR, mni, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, was held at the Atiku Abubakar Conference Hall of the Federal Secretariat in Abuja.

It was attended by Distinguished Senator (Dr.) Yahaya A. Abdullahi, CON, and other prominent dignitaries from Kebbi State.

During the session, the Emir of Argungu highlighted the rich cultural history and legacy of the festival, describing it as a unifying force that continues to showcase Nigeria’s deep-rooted traditions to the world.

The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to partner with the Kebbi State Government and the Argungu Emirate to ensure the successful hosting of AFF 2026.

Speaking at the meeting, Olayiwola Awakan assured full NTDA collaboration and called on stakeholders to rally behind the event.

“All roads lead to Argungu come 2026,” Awakan declared, noting that the festival remains a powerful driver of tourism, cultural diplomacy, and local economic growth.

Also read: Tourists flock to Afon for annual fishing festival, boosting Kwara’s tourism scene

The Argungu International Fishing Festival, renowned for its spectacular fishing contests and vibrant cultural displays, continues to stand as one of Nigeria’s oldest and most prestigious heritage events, drawing participants and visitors from across the world.