To revive the long-neglected Argungu International Fishing Festival, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has initiated efforts by deploying water engineering professionals to design a concept ensuring a continuous water flow to the festival’s venue at the ‘Matan Fada River’ tributary.
Chief Press Secretary, Ahmed Idris, in a press statement, highlighted that an embankment at Gurbin Manu, Garin Dabai in Augie Local Government Area, impeded the natural water inflow to the river.
This obstruction caused the Matan Fada River to shrink, affecting waterways across seven local government areas. The consequences include adverse impacts on agriculture, fishing, and daily tasks like domestic chores and human-animal consumption.
This was sequel to a complaint tendered by the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera which prompted swift action by the governor.
Idris dispatched four commissioners led by the Commissioner for Environment, Alhaji Musa Muhammad Tungulawa, accompanied by Magajin Garin Kabi, Engineer Aminu Musa. They represented the Emir of Argungu and joined water engineers to inspect the embankment, laying the groundwork for designing a lasting solution to the issue.
According to the statement, their focus is on reinstating the unimpeded water flow to the tributary supplying Matan Fada River, Mala River in Argungu, Dukku River in Birnin Kebbi, and Bunza River directly to the River Niger.
Alongside the Environment Commissioner, other commissioners included Agriculture Commissioner Alhaji Shehu Mu’azu, Water Resources Commissioner Alhaji Bello Abdullahi Kaoje, and Home Affairs and Security Commissioner Alhaji Sama’ila Yakubu Augie.
The Consultant Engineer clarified that the water’s source is Goronyo River in Sokoto State, flowing to the tributary serving Argungu and various towns. The diversion of water has adversely affected the livelihoods of numerous farmers, fishermen, and households.
