Atiku Bagudu Launches 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival Motor Rally

By our Correspondent

As part of efforts to advance the creative economy drive under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, the Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to unlocking the economic potential of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival.
The Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, made this known while officially launching the 61st Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival Motor Rally in Abuja.

Senator Bagudu praised President Tinubu for fostering collaboration with the Kebbi State Government aimed at boosting national economic growth through the festival. He urged stakeholders to lend their support to initiatives that promote economic diversification and national development, highlighting the Argungu Festival as a prime example of innovation-driven growth.
In her remarks, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, noted that the motor rally component of the festival aligns with the Nigeria First Policy of the Tinubu administration. Represented by the Director General of the National Automotive Design and Development Council (NADDC), Otunba Oluwemimo Joseph Osanipin, she reaffirmed the government’s dedication to strengthening Nigeria’s automobile industry.
The Minister also commended the sponsors and partners of the motor rally, particularly the automobile companies that showcased their vehicles, and called for stronger public-private partnerships to further develop the nation’s automotive sector.
Delivering a goodwill message, the Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Muktar Mohammed, described the festival as a vital platform for promoting peace, unity, and cultural harmony essential for economic advancement. She assured of the Ministry’s full support toward ensuring the success of the 61st edition of the festival.
Earlier, the Director General of the Argungu International Fishing and Cultural Festival, Alhaji Safiyanu Garba Bena, disclosed that 18 drivers would take part in the motor rally, which will pass through Kano and Sokoto before culminating in Argungu, Kebbi State, where the 61st festival will be officially flagged off.
Alhaji Bena expressed appreciation to supporters of the festival and voiced optimism that the event would significantly contribute to national economic development.