Preparations perfected and the long wait over. Its action time as high profile patrons, top players and thousands of polo enthusiasts and tourists head to the ancient Kabi Kingdom for the much anticipated 2019 NKS Argungu Polo- Cultural Fete that takes centre stage this week.
Expectedly, the ancient Kabi kingdom is already in the vibrant mood for their biggest sporting cum tourism festival as its welcome players, fans, and guests alike back for another incredible week of polo and culture from September 4, 2019.
Polo Royals can authoritatively disclose that the biggest attraction of the 2019 edition would undoubtedly be the much-awaited return of the foremost Argungu Fishing Festival. The festival that was last staged in 2009 is listed by UNESCO as intangible cultural heritage, the only one of its kind in Nigeria.
We were reliably told that Governor Bagudu is championing the revival of the foremost festival with its huge international offerings because it would swing travel visits to Nigeria and consequently create jobs in the state and also cause rapid urbanization of Kebbi’s rural areas.
“Everything is being done to not only to bring back the international fishing festival but to raise the stakes to the standard it deserves, Kangiwa added”
According to Alhaji Nura Kangiwa, Special Adviser to the Governor of Kebbi State on Tourism, the glamorous fete is endorsed by major corporate sponsors like Nigerian Brewery, Federal Inland Revenue Services FIRS the National Council for Arts and Culture, with Kebbi State Government, leading the pack. Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF) Francis Ogboro in his goodwill message said the entire NPF family is very honoured to be part of Argungu polo tournament and the revival of the Fishing Festival.
He stated that the NPF would work harmoniously with NSK Farms, the sponsors, as well as the state government to ensure that the polo-cultural fete grows to greater heights, adding that polo would indeed be a plus to the festival, as it had the potential of attracting people from all over the world.
“It was an outstanding tournament, both on and off the field. We saw so many upsets and so many unexpectedly good performances it was just outstandingly competitive,” said Francis Ogboro, President of the Nigerian Polo Federation (NPF). “From what we saw last year, from both the high and the low-goal categories I believe that NSK Argungu tournament is a strong indication yet, that Nigerian polo has a great future.”
“We had many high profile guests and visitors throughout the tournament. They were very impressed by what they saw, and we are confident that 2019 Argungu will continue to raise the bar for the future of the king of games in Nigeria.” Ogboro added.
The Turaki Kebbi, who is also the Coordinator of the Fishing Festival, also told Polo Royals that the tourney has already been oversubscribed will feature about ten major teams loaded with local and international players who would compete for various cups. Event’s biggest prize, the Governor Cup leads the pack of major prizes that include the Sultan’s Cup, Emir of Kebbi Cup, Shehu Kangiwa Cup, Veterans Cup and Beginners Cup,’ among other individuals awards.
The four-day event will also feature a mini fishing festival and more packaged cultural activities like a local boxing and wrestling competition between Nigeria and the Republic of the Niger. There will also be Camel and Horse Racing contests, Bull Fighting and different cultural dances.
Meanwhile, in a bid to attract foreign investments and foster more positive narrative about Nigeria, arrangements are in place between Argungu and Borough of Manhattan New York City, in a Sister City partnership. Kebbi State Government in conjunction with NSK Polo Club promises an unforgettable experience for each guest. So, mark your calendars for a family-friendly and action-packed way to spend one of the memorable holidays this season.
