Nwonyo Fishing Festival Winner Clinches ₦10m Prize

News in brief:

-Haruna Sale won the 2026 Nwonyo Fishing Festival after catching a 55.6kg fish at Lake Nwonyo.

-The event attracted national and international dignitaries, highlighting Taraba’s growing tourism potential.

Haruna Sale has emerged as the winner of the 2026 edition of the Nwonyo Fishing Festival in Taraba State after catching a fish weighing 55.6 kilograms, earning the grand prize of ₦10 million.

Ismaila Yakubu secured second place with a catch weighing 52.6 kilograms to claim ₦3 million, while Emmanuel Daniel finished third with a fish weighing 18.2 kilograms.

The annual event took place at Lake Nwonyo in Ibi Local Government Area, attracting tourists and dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.

Tinubu Highlights Festival’s Role in National Unity

Speaking at the festival, Bola Ahmed Tinubu described the event as an important platform for promoting unity, community cohesion and national integration. The president was represented by the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.

Tinubu commended Agbu Kefas for reviving the festival after years of inactivity. He added that the initiative aligns with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in using tourism as a driver of sustainable development.

The president also revealed ongoing efforts to secure global recognition for the festival through the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO).

Cultural Exchange and Economic Opportunities

Governor Kefas, in his remarks, emphasised the importance of the festival in preserving cultural heritage, strengthening community engagement and promoting economic development.

He noted that increasing international participation reflects Taraba State’s growing reputation as a safe and attractive destination for tourism and investment.

Elder statesman Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, represented at the event by Caleb Mutfwang, described the revival of the festival as a symbol of unity and an opportunity for economic sustainability.

Also speaking, Dickon Mitchell commended the initiative and announced plans for cultural exchange.

He disclosed that cultural troupes from Taraba State would participate in Africa Emancipation Day celebrations in Grenada to strengthen cultural and economic ties.

The fishing competition remains the highlight of the festival, drawing widespread attention and showcasing the rich cultural heritage of communities around Lake Nwonyo while boosting tourism and local economic activities.