The ancient fishing community of Ibi witnessed a historic convergence of culture, diplomacy, and enterprise as the 2026 Nwonyo International Fishing Festival drew global attention to Taraba State.
Held on April 18, the event transformed Lake Nwonyo into a bustling arena of tradition and competition, attracting fishermen, tourists, and cultural enthusiasts to one of Nigeria’s oldest and most revered cultural celebrations.
Dignitaries Grace Occasion
The festival welcomed a host of high-profile figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Tourism; Grenada’s President Dickon Mitchell, who attended in person; and Ghana’s President John Dramani Mahama, who was also represented. Elder statesman General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (retd.) was represented by Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang. Senator David Jimkuta, host Governor Agbu Kefas, traditional rulers, and other key stakeholders were also present.
Tradition on Display
From daybreak, the lakeside pulsed with Jukun cultural heritage. A vibrant boat regatta saw decorated canoes glide across the water, while horsemen staged a durbar showcasing northern Nigeria’s enduring traditions. Young swimmers competed before an enthusiastic crowd.
The Main Event: Fishing for Glory
The highlight remained the fiercely contested fishing competition, with participants vying for the largest catch. Taraba State Government awarded ₦10 million to Haruna Saleh Busara, whose 55.5kg haul secured first place. Samaila Yakubu took second (52.6kg, ₦3 million), and Emmanuel Daniel third (18.2kg, ₦2 million).
Special awards were also presented to President Tinubu in recognition of his support for cultural and tourism development.
Voices from the Stage
Speaking through his representative, President Tinubu hailed the festival as a testament to Nigeria’s unity in diversity and a catalyst for tourism. He praised the Taraba Government for sustaining the event and reaffirmed federal commitment to culture-led economic growth.
General Danjuma, through his representative, called the festival “a symbol of unity in diversity,” noting its role in preserving identity and fostering national cohesion.
Governor Kefas described the event as central to his vision of positioning Taraba as a premier tourism destination, declaring the state safe and open for investment, with plans to expand the festival’s global footprint.
Senator Jimkuta underscored the importance of preserving cultural heritage, stressing that Nwonyo strengthens community bonds while boosting economic growth.
Economic Ripple Effects
Beyond the spectacle, the festival delivered tangible economic benefits. Local traders, transport operators, and hospitality providers recorded a surge in activity as thousands of visitors descended on Ibi.
A Legacy Continues
With a history spanning over a century, the Nwonyo International Fishing Festival has evolved from a local fishing tradition into an internationally recognised event. The 2026 edition has once again placed Taraba on the global cultural map, proving that heritage remains a powerful driver of tourism, unity, and sustainable development.