The Director General of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Sufiyanu Garba-Bena, has reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to ensuring the success of the 2026 edition of the historic event.
Garba-Bena made this known during a press conference in Birnin Kebbi, where he officially announced the resumption of the committee’s activities.
“In Sha Allah, the February 2026 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival will be different from the previous ones.
“We hope to feature a unique, modernised cultural and fishing festival that will not only promote culture and tourism but also attract more people to the event,” he said.
He explained that the meeting, chaired by the Deputy Governor of Kebbi State and Chairman of the Main Committee, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, marked the official start of preparations.
This followed a directive by Governor Nasir Idris, who ordered immediate and sustained planning for the 2026 festival.
Garba-Bena recalled that the Main Committee was inaugurated on October 9, 2024, but the festival was shifted from 2025 to 2026 due to infrastructural requirements and other considerations.
He further revealed that deliberations focused on revising the financial estimates for the event. While the Technical Committee initially projected N7.8 billion, the Due Process Committee, on the Governor’s directive, reviewed it downward to N3.8 billion.
The committee, he added, will further study the figures to reduce costs and explore innovative strategies for revenue generation.
The DG assured that the 2026 Argungu Festival would be distinctive, stressing the committee’s plans to boost internally generated revenue while promoting Kebbi State’s image globally.
Expressing gratitude to Governor Nasir Idris for entrusting them with the responsibility, Garba-Bena pledged the committee’s determination not to disappoint the government or the people of the state.
“All members of the committee are ready to work tirelessly to ensure the success of the festival,” he added.
