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From Olanrewaju Lawal, Birnin Kebbi
The Kebbi State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Alhaji Shehu Muazu, has noted that the 61st Argungu fishing festival has provided an opportunity for the state to showcase its vast agricultural potential.
Muazu stated this while addressing guests at the agricultural show, noting that the festival provides a strategic platform to highlight the state’s rich agricultural endowment and achievements.
Governor Nasir Idris, who toured the exhibition stands, expressed delight at the impressive display of agricultural produce, including giant rice pyramids.
Also in attendance were the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, other traditional rulers, government officials, and participants from various walks of life.
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, stressing that agriculture remains central to the state’s economic growth.
He highlighted Kebbi State’s position as Nigeria’s largest rice producer, second-largest producer of onions, and a major hub for cattle and fish production, attributing these successes to the enabling environment created by Governor Nasir Idris’s administration.
Muazu noted that Kebbi hosts major agro-industrial players such as WACOT Rice Mill (producers of Big Bull Rice), GB Foods — Nigeria’s largest tomato paste producer — as well as Labana Rice, Lolo Rice, Gano Rice, and other nationally recognised mills.
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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 fertiliser, 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, commending Governor Idris for his unwavering commitment to agricultural transformation and food security.
While 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 and Kebbi State governments in fighting poverty, boosting agricultural productivity, and attracting investors, noting that the peaceful atmosphere of the festival further 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.
