These were the words of President Muhammadu Buhari at the commencement of Argungu fishing Festival in Kebbi State today, March 12. The Festival, abandoned about 11 years ago due to insecurity, was revived by the Kebbi State government.
President noted that the return of Argungu Agricultural and Fishing Festival after 11 years of its suspension, and other international festivals across the country, are signs of more confidence in improved security.
This was even as he assured that the Federal Government will sustain investments in security infrastructure to boost cultural tourism, and attract more investments in the entertainment industry.
The President noted that insecurity created a lull in tourism and entertainment for many years, with ripple effects on the economy, by restricting movements, gatherings and investments, promising to promote policies that will stimulate more interest in tourism and entertainment.
“Our presence here today is evidence of Government’s commitment to restoring security and expanding domestic food production as core mandate of our programmes.
“We are all aware that this important cultural gathering was suspended for 11 years as a result of insecurity. Today, by the grace of God, this festival is back and I hope back for good.
“We are not only celebrating the reinstatement of this important gathering, but we are also celebrating the remarkable progress made in restoring peace and security to this region and indeed, our country. It is also noteworthy that yesterday in Abuja a motor rally across five states, which will terminate here in Argungu, was flagged off.’’
President Buhari said many international festivals, such as the Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival, were being celebrated across the country, bringing all Nigerians closer together and improving collective appreciation of the nation’s diversity, while projecting the rich history and culture to foreigners.
“In both instances, massive jobs are created in the tourism sector, which we all agree is still not fully developed. We must therefore continue to encourage, support and promote such festivals.
“Let me use this opportunity to commend Governor of Kebbi State, His Highness, Emir of Argungu, Minister of Information and Culture, Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria and members of the organising committee at the local, state and federal levels for this remarkable event.’’
The President said the government focused on food security by investing in programmes that will stimulate more interest in agriculture, improve system of farming, highlighting some of the achievements since 2015 to include return of paddy pyramids and multi-billion naira rice mills.
“Furthermore, you will all recall that our food security program started here in Kebbi back in 2015. The many products displayed here are also proof of the progress we have made as a nation in feeding ourselves. The farming, fishing and pastoral communities truly embraced our programmes and have proven that we can produce what we need.
“We established the National Food Security Council, which I Chair, supported by the Governor of this State, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, to ensure that all our successes to date are continuously improved upon.
“I thank the people of Kebbi State for your support to the Governor as he embarked on this very important national assignment.’’
He commended private sector sponsors and international development partners for supporting the 60th Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival, adding that Nigerians have the capacity to solve the challenges facing the country.
In his remarks, the Governor of Kebbi State commended President Buhari for his “we can do it’’ spirit in the agricultural sector, which had resulted in rising grain pyramids and employment, and providing an enabling environment for festivals, like the Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival, to resume.
“We are not allowing those who do not wish us well to define who we are.’’
The Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, commended the President for the bold step to close the land borders, which clearly showed his penchant to always pursue national interest.
Argungu Agricultural Fair is part of activities at the 60th Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival, which is a UNESCO World Heritage event.
