Argungu 2020: Kebbi is set to host the world, Dep Gov assures

By Haruna Usman, Birnin Kebbi

The Kebbi State deputy governor, Colonel Samaila Yombe(rtd), who chairs the Organising Committee of 2020 Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, said on Tuesday that the state is set to host the world as the level of preparations for the hosting of the annual event has reached seventy five percent based on the machinery put in place for a successful hosting of the event.

Yombe made the disclosure in his office in Birnin kebbi after he rose from a meeting with members of the organising committee.

The meeting which had in attendance the Speaker of the Kebbi State House of Assembly, Honourable samaila, Commissioner for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs Alhaji Hassan Shalla, Commissioner of Works and Housing, Alhaji Abubakar Chika Ladan and the Commissioner of Commerce, Muhammad Aminu Dan Diga.

The deputy governor said that he visits Argungu almost everyday to inspect the facilities being put in place, such as the fishing village, the main arena which is River (Matan fada) where the main fishing will take place.

In hosting expected tourists and foreign nationals,Yombo noted that the accommodations and security of expatriates is guaranteed as the state Police Commissioner being member of the committee has assured them of maximum security of lives and property during and after the event.

The annual Argungu Fishing Festival event which holds from 9th to 11th March, 2020, is returning this year after about ten years break.

While President Muhammadu Buhari is expected to be in attendance, the state said it is targeting revenue from visiting tourists, as the event will feature motor rally, local boxing, horse and camel durbar and a whole lots of fascinating cultural events.

With the usual main sponsors like 9mobile,MTN and Maltina, the winner of the biggest catch will smile home with huge cash, a car and a hajj pilgrimage sponsorship, while runner-up will receive cash and other consolation prizes.