The Nwonyo Fishing Festival has once again brought together the people of Taraba State and visitors from across Nigeria in a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition. Held at the historic Nwonyo Lake in Ibi, the festival showcased the state's rich heritage and renewed hope for cultural tourism under the leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas.
Governor Kefas Lauded for Reviving Cultural Festival
Governor Agbu Kefas received widespread praise for his foresight and commitment to reviving the festival. His partnership with Otunba Wanle Akinboboye, Founder and President of La Campagne, has given the event a new lease of life, transforming it into a major tourism attraction. The La Campagne Tropicana Agro-ecotourism Heritage and Lake Resort at Nwonyo is a testament to this collaboration.
High-Profile Attendance
The event was graced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa. Other dignitaries included General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), represented by former Plateau State Governor Senator Simon Bako Lalong; Prime Minister of Grenada, Dickon Mitchell; and President of Ghana, John Dramani Mahama, represented by Kwado Ajeku Emmanuel.
Middle Belt States Pledge Support
Senator Simon Bako Lalong, speaking on behalf of the Middle Belt states, commended Governor Kefas for reviving the festival, describing it as a restoration of pride and a sign of unity. He pledged the commitment of Middle Belt states to partner with Taraba and La Campagne to replicate such successes. Lalong stated, "We are gladly ready to strategically partner and align with the vision to develop tourism in our states and bring Africans back to the continent."
He further noted that the Commissioner for Heritage and Tourism has confirmed Governor Kefas's consistent leadership in developing the state's heritage, including documenting tourism sites. Lalong assured that the Nigerian Governors' Forum would support and promote this vision.
