Nigeria’s Argungu fishing contest returns after years of pause
Al Jazeera
February 15, 2026
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Nigeria’s iconic Argungu fishing contest returned after years of suspension, drawing thousands of fishermen and spectators to the UNESCO heritage site along the Matan Fadan river in northwestern Nigeria. The festival showcased traditional fishing methods, including hand-woven nets, calabash gourds, and even bare-handed fish catching, as participants competed for the title of champion and a cash prize of ₦500,000 (approximately $1,300) for landing the largest catch. President Bola Tinubu attended the event, marking its revival as a sign of stability in the region despite lingering security concerns that deterred some attendees. The contest, held annually since 1934, was suspended in 2010 due to infrastructure issues and rising insecurity but briefly resumed in 2020 before this year’s successful comeback.
The fishing festival is deeply rooted in history, originating as a peace agreement between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Argungu emirate. It has long served as a symbol of unity, bringing together diverse communities to celebrate culture through traditional wrestling, music, and dance performances. This year’s event highlighted the resilience of local traditions and the economic benefits it brings to the region. Fishermen like Aliyu Muhammadu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to provide for their families, while others sold their catches, contributing to the local economy.
Despite its cultural significance, the festival faces challenges. Security concerns in northern Nigeria have made attendance difficult for many, as seen during its suspension from 2010 to 2020 and again in 2023. The river’s closure throughout the year, managed by the Sarkin Ruwa (water chief), ensures conservation efforts but also limits fishing opportunities outside the festival. While President Tinubu viewed the event as a positive sign
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/15/2026