In a bid to strengthen international and local collaborations, the CEO of Bakassi International Fish Festival, Frank-Edima Essien, has met with the Executive Secretary of Argungu Fishing Festival and Director General of National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Alhaji Nura Sani Kangiwa, in his Abuja office.
At the meeting, Frank-Edima spoke deeply and passionately about the fish festival project and how the festival has raised awareness about marine conservation, sustainable fishing, and economic opportunities for local fishermen. “Having concluded two successful editions, the festival has been able to sensitize the coastal communities and fishermen about the need to adopt sustainable ways to preserve their natural resources while celebrating their cultural heritage and identity,” she said.
“Beyond the annual celebrations, the festival is a platform for the empowerment of our local fishermen and fish vendors, especially those affected by the unfortunate ceding that got so many families internally displaced with no tangible source of livelihood,” she added.
Similarly, the Arungu Fishing Festival Executive Secretary, who also sits as the Director of NIHOTOUR, shared the deep values the festival has and how it has fostered communal coexistence between the Argungu and neighboring communities by celebrating shared cultural practices.
The NIHOTOUR Director was excited to receive Bakassi Fish Festival’s CEO, and appreciated her efforts in driving such a lofty initiative for her community. He further extended hands of fellowship, stating that the meeting has created an exciting opportunity for collaboration and cultural exchange.
The Argungu Fishing Festival dates back before Nigeria’s independence, and takes place in the north-western region of Nigeria, near the Matan Fada River, while Bakassi International Fish Festival was birthed in 2022, and takes place in the south-south region of Nigeria, around the Gulf of Guinea. Both festivals are hosted annually.
The highlight of the meeting was a symbolic presentation of the annual magazine of the Bakassi International Fish Festival, and a photo by the duo.
This collaborative moves between the Bakassi International Fish Festival and the Argungu Fishing Festival will breed shared aquatic heritage, inspire sustainable practices, foster friendships, and create lasting memories.
