Reporting by Channels TV on February 14, 2026, indicates that the historic Argungu International Fishing Festival has officially commenced in Kebbi State. The festival, which had seen intermittent pauses in previous years due to security and logistics, returned with a grand opening ceremony attended by traditional rulers and international tourists.
The event features various cultural competitions, including the famous grand fishing contest where thousands of fishermen dive into the Matan Fada River to catch the largest fish using traditional nets. The Governor of Kebbi State, during the opening, highlighted the festival’s role in promoting peace, unity, and the state’s potential as a premier destination for cultural tourism in West Africa.
Further validation from Vanguard and Daily Trust showcases the economic impact on the region. Vanguard noted that “hotels in Argungu and Birnin Kebbi are fully booked for the four-day event,” while Daily Trust quoted a festival organizer: “This year’s edition is the largest in a decade, showcasing the best of Kebbi’s hospitality and heritage.”
Echotitbits take: Beyond the cultural spectacle, the Argungu festival is a major boost for the local economy and a sign of improved security in the Northwest. The success of this event could encourage the return of other dormant cultural festivals across Nigeria.
Source: Channels TV – https://www.channelstv.com/2026/02/12/photos-argungu-international-fishing-festival-kicks-off-in-kebbi/, February 14, 2026
Photo credit: Channels TV
Tag: tourism Nigeria
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Argungu International Fishing Festival Kicks Off in Kebbi State
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Niger State Seeks Global Recognition for Historic Nupe Cultural Festival
Niger State Seeks Global Recognition for Historic Nupe Cultural Festival
Reporting by TVC News indicates that the Niger State Government is engaging the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy on plans to transform the Bida Bariki Festival into an international tourist attraction. The proposal aims to modernize the colonial-era festival—known for showcasing Nupe heritage—and integrate it more firmly into Nigeria’s national cultural calendar.
Officials and lawmakers argue that a modernized festival could attract global tourists, create local jobs, and provide market access for Nupe craftspeople known for glass and brass work. The plan also includes developing infrastructure around Gurara Falls to complement the cultural experience and expand visitor stay-time.
Leadership newspaper validated the story, quoting Minister Hannatu Musawa on a strategy to turn local festivals into global assets that drive the creative economy. Daily Trust also reported community-level support, with local leaders describing the move as long-overdue recognition.
Echotitbits take: This is a credible pathway to diversifying Nigeria’s soft power and non-oil revenues. Cultural tourism is a major global market, and Nupe heritage has distinctiveness. Infrastructure delivery—roads, safety, hospitality capacity—will determine whether this becomes a true international draw.
Source: TVC News — https://www.tvcnews.tv/niger-seeks-fgs-partnership-to-transform-bida-bariki-festival-into-global-cultural-attraction/ (2026-01-23)
Photo Credit: TVC News 2026-01-23
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Detty December hits peak: Lagos nightlife packed as celebrity circuit intensifies
Photo Credit: GoldMyne TV
2025-12-24 08:00:00
Figures and scenes highlighted by GoldMyne TV suggest Lagos has entered full Detty December mode—packed venues, celebrity drop-ins, and nonstop event calendars driving the city’s nightlife narrative.The season is being framed as a magnet for artists, influencers, and diaspora returnees, turning everyday club appearances into headline moments.
It also carries an economic angle: hotels, lounges, transport, and event brands typically see a surge when the celebrity circuit concentrates in one city.
VG (AFP-backed) (News site) also echoed the same development, noting: “an extravagant month-long party season” (https://www.vanguardngr.com/). GoldMyne TV (Entertainment outlet) also echoed the same development, noting: “A-list Stars Storm Lagos for Detty December” (https://www.goldmyne.tv/a-list-stars-storm-lagos-for-detty-december/).
Echotitbits take: Detty December has become a cultural export product—part tourism strategy, part creator economy. What to watch: whether Lagos can sustain the draw without security, traffic, and pricing backlash that could eventually deter visitors and local participation.
Source: GoldMyne TV — December 24, 2025 — https://www.goldmyne.tv/a-list-stars-storm-lagos-for-detty-december/
GoldMyne TV
2025-12-24