Kebbi State once again showcased its vast agricultural potential at the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival (AIFF) during the Agricultural Show held in Argungu on Thursday.
The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Alhaji Shehu Muazu, addressed guests at the show and said the festival provides a strong platform to highlight the state’s rich agricultural endowment and achievements. He noted that the event goes beyond culture and entertainment, serving as a space to present real progress in farming and food production.
Governor Nasir Idris toured the exhibition stands and expressed delight at the impressive display of agricultural produce, including giant rice pyramids that drew attention from visitors. Also present at the event were the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, other traditional rulers, government officials, and participants from different parts of the country.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner described the Argungu Festival as a celebration of Kebbi’s cultural heritage, agricultural strength, and commitment to sustainable development. He stressed that agriculture remains central to the state’s economic growth and long-term prosperity.
He highlighted Kebbi State’s position as Nigeria’s largest rice producer, the second-largest producer of onions, and a major hub for cattle and fish production. According to him, these achievements are linked to the enabling environment created by Governor Nasir Idris’s administration.
Alhaji Muazu further stated that Kebbi hosts major agro-industrial players such as WACOT Rice Mill, producers of Big Bull Rice, GB Foods, described as Nigeria’s largest tomato paste producer, as well as Labana Rice, Lolo Rice, Gano Rice, and other nationally recognised mills operating within the state.
According to him, the Kaura Agricultural Development Agenda (KADAGE), launched by Governor Idris, was designed to harness the state’s resources, attract investment, boost productivity, and improve farmers’ livelihoods. He recalled that since the launch of KADAGE two years ago, the state has recorded remarkable achievements, particularly in reducing the cost of farming through the free distribution of agricultural equipment and inputs.
“These include 10,000 solar-powered pumps, 10,000 CNG pumps, 5,000 power tillers, and over 500 trucks of fertilizer, all distributed free of charge to farmers across the state,” he explained.
The Commissioner said the towering rice pyramid at the exhibition ground symbolised the success of KADAGE and commended Governor Idris for his commitment to agricultural transformation and food security.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Dr. Tanko Sununu, described the festival as “a powerful economic, cultural, and social platform that promotes peace, unity, and prosperity through agriculture.”
He praised the collaboration between the Federal Government and Kebbi State Government in fighting poverty, boosting agricultural productivity, and attracting investors. He added that the peaceful atmosphere of the festival enhances investor confidence.
Other highlights of the event included goodwill messages from traditional rulers across the country, the flag-off of the National Bicycle Race, finals of international boxing and wrestling competitions, farm produce exhibitions, farmers’ processions, and awards. At the event, Alhaji Shehu Muazu was turbanned as Sarkin Noma, while Hajiya Zuwaira Argungu emerged as Gimbiyar Noma of the 2026 AIFF.
