Nwonyo Festival Drives Tourism, Business Activity in Taraba

The 2026 Nwonyo Fishing Festival has drawn large crowds to Ibi Local Government Area of Taraba State, boosting tourism and local economic activity.

Source: newnationalstar

The annual event took place at Lake Nwonyo, where fishermen, tourists and cultural groups gathered for a series of traditional activities. The festival opened with a boat regatta featuring decorated canoes, followed by swimming contests involving young participants.

A durbar procession formed part of the programme, with horse riders in traditional attire parading before spectators. The main attraction was the fishing competition, where participants competed for the largest catch.

Cultural performances, including music, dance and storytelling, were also held to showcase local traditions.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, said the festival promotes unity and supports the government’s tourism development plans. She added that steps are being taken to seek international recognition through UNESCO.

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas said the festival is helping to attract investors and visitors, noting increased international participation.

In a goodwill message, Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, represented by Caleb Mutfwang, described the event as a platform for unity and economic growth.

International representatives also attended, with officials from Ghana and Grenada expressing interest in cultural exchange programmes.

At the end of the competition, a fisherman won the top prize of N10 million with a catch weighing 55.6 kilograms. The second and third place winners received N3 million and N2 million respectively.

Organisers say the festival continues to grow in scale and importance, contributing to tourism and local development in Taraba State.