By: Nahum Sule, Jalingo
The quiet fishing town of Ibi was thrust into the spotlight as it hosted the 2026 Nwonyo International Fishing Festival—an event that brought together culture, commerce, and diplomacy on an impressive scale, attracting both national and international attention.
Held on April 18, the festival turned the historic Lake Nwonyo into a lively hub of tradition and competition.
Fishermen, tourists, and culture enthusiasts gathered in large numbers for what remains one of Nigeria’s oldest and most renowned cultural celebrations.
The occasion drew an array of distinguished guests, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Tourism; Grenadian President Dickon Mitchell, who attended in person; Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, represented; elder statesman Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, represented by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang; Senator David Jimkuta; and the host governor, Agbu Kefas, alongside traditional rulers and other key stakeholders.
Festivities began early, with the lakeside buzzing with displays of Jukun heritage.
A vibrant boat regatta showcased beautifully adorned canoes gliding across the water, while a traditional durbar featured horsemen in a striking display of northern Nigeria’s cultural elegance. Youth swimming competitions added to the excitement, drawing enthusiastic applause from spectators.
At the heart of the celebration was the much-anticipated fishing contest. Participants cast their nets into the lake, competing for the largest catch in a contest known for both its intensity and symbolic importance. Generous prizes and recognition further cemented its status as the festival’s main attraction.
Haruna Saleh Busara emerged victorious with a remarkable catch of 55.5 kilograms, earning the ₦10 million grand prize. Samaila Yakubu took second place with 52.6 kilograms, receiving ₦3 million, while Emmanuel Daniel placed third with 18.2 kilograms, winning ₦2 million.
Special recognition was also given to President Tinubu for his contributions to cultural and tourism development.
In a message delivered by his representative, the President described the festival as a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s unity in diversity and an important driver of tourism.
He praised the Taraba State Government for sustaining the initiative and reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to leveraging culture as an economic resource.
Danjuma, also represented, highlighted the festival as a unifying force that preserves cultural identity while strengthening national cohesion.
Governor Agbu Kefas noted that the event aligns with his administration’s goal of positioning Taraba as a top tourism destination.
He reassured investors of the state’s safety and emphasized plans to expand the festival’s international profile.
Senator Jimkuta underscored the value of preserving cultural heritage, pointing out that events like Nwonyo not only reinforce community ties but also stimulate economic growth.
Beyond the cultural displays, the festival delivered clear economic gains for the host community. Local businesses including traders, transport operators, and hospitality providers—experienced a surge in activity as thousands of visitors filled the area.
With a history spanning over a century, the Nwonyo International Fishing Festival has grown from a local tradition into a globally recognized event.
Its continued success highlights the power of culture to drive tourism, promote unity, and support sustainable development.
The 2026 edition, with its rich mix of heritage, competition, and economic opportunity, has once again placed Taraba State firmly on the global cultural stage, underscoring the lasting relevance of tradition in modern nation-building.(The place)
