A 59 kilogram fish has emerged as the biggest catch at the 61st edition of the Argungu International Fishing Festival, held in Argungu, Kebbi state.
Sunday Dare, special adviser on media and publicity to the president, announced the development in a tweet on Saturday.
The record catch was made by Abubakar Usman from Maiyama LGA during the main fishing competition at the Matan Fada River on Saturday.
His catch earned him the top prize at the annual cultural event, which attracts thousands of local and international tourists.
Abdullahi Garba from Argungu secured second place with a 40kg fish, while Nasir Garba and another contestant tied for third place after landing 33kg fish each.
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The organisers said the overall winner will receive two vehicles, a cash prize of ₦1 million and other items, while runners-up will also be rewarded with cash and material prizes.
The festival, which dates back to 1934, is one of Nigeria’s most prominent cultural events.
It was originally conceived to mark peace between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom and has since evolved into a major tourist attraction.
Beyond the fishing contest, activities lined up for the multi-day celebration include traditional wrestling, cultural dances, music performances and exhibitions of local crafts.
President Bola Tinubu formally declared the festival open during a visit to the state, where he also commissioned projects in the capital, Birnin Kebbi.
The Argungu festival is widely regarded as a symbol of unity and cultural heritage in northern Nigeria, drawing participants from across the country each year.
