Ben Adaji Jalingo
Haruna Sale, the winner of the biggest catch at the 2026 edition of Nwonyo Fishing Festival with a fish weighing 55.6 kilograms on Saturday received N10 million prize .
Ismaila Yakubu, who came second with his fish weighing 52.6 kilograms received a prize of N 3 million while Emmanuel Daniel with the third position, whose fish weighs 18.2 kilograms received N2 million.
Speaking at the event, the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who represented President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, lauded the foresight of Taraba state governor Agbu Kefas for reviving the event which was abandoned for many years.
She noted that the vision of Taraba State Governor, Kefas, aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in using tourism as a pathway to sustainable development.
The Minister also disclosed the ongoing efforts by the Federal government to secure global recognition for the festival through UNESCO.
Governor Kefas, in his remarks, highlighted the festival’s importance in preserving cultural heritage, promoting development, and strengthening community engagement.
He added that the growing presence of international participants signals Taraba State’s emergence as a safe and attractive destination for tourism and investment.
Elder statesman Gen. Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma rtd, represented by Caleb Mutfwang, Governor of Plateau state, described the festival as a symbol of unity and a catalyst for economic sustainability.
Also lending international support, the Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell, commended the initiative and announced plans for cultural exchange between his country and Taraba State.
He revealed that Taraba cultural troupes will participate in Africa Emancipation Day celebrations in Grenada to strengthen cultural and economic ties.
The event which took place at Nwonyo lake in Ibbi town, headquarter of Ibbi local government area of Taraba state attracted tourists and personalities from within and outside Nigeria.
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