The Federal Government has intensified efforts to secure global recognition for the Nwonyo Fishing Festival in Ibi local government area of Taraba State, with plans to inscribe it on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage list.

President Bola Tinubu, who was represented at the 2026 edition of the yearly traditional fishing festival, said the initiative formed part of his administration’s broader strategy to reposition Nigeria’s cultural assets under the Renewed Hope Agenda.

He described the century-old festival as one of Africa’s most enduring cultural traditions and a unifying platform that has sustained community identity, resilience and heritage over generations.

The President further revealed that the government is set to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Taraba State government to deepen collaboration in tourism development and cultural promotion.

He commended Governor Agbu Kefas for reviving the festival after years of dormancy, noting that the state government’s efforts have positioned Taraba as a critical partner in Nigeria’s cultural diplomacy drive.

President Tinubu announced that as part of complementary measures, the rollout of a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) programme targeting youths in the creative and tourism sectors, including ICT, fashion, catering and hospitality, to boost employment and entrepreneurship.

Highlighting the festival’s growing global appeal, the President pointed to the presence of foreign delegations from countries such as Ghana and Grenada as evidence of its rising international profile, calling for stronger cross-border cultural partnerships.

In his remarks, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, who represented former Minister of Defence, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, described the revival of the festival, also known historically as Wanyo, as a restoration of cultural pride and economic opportunity.

Danjuma, who was chairman of the event, traced the origin of the festival to 1816, noting that the festival had been abandoned for over 14 years before its recent revival.

ALSO, Chairman of Wukari local government area of Taraba State, Bala Useni, has said the revival of the Nwonyo Fishing Festival by Governor Agbu Kefas has placed the state on the global tourism map.

Useni also described the festival and related cultural activities as a major boost to cultural preservation, youth engagement, and economic revitalisation in the state.

In a statement issued to journalists yesterday in Jalingo, the council chairman commended the governor for successfully hosting the historic Nwonyo Fishing Festival in Ibi, as well as his active participation in the Jukun Youth Day celebrations held over the weekend in Wukari.

He noted that the events also served as an opportunity to attract investors and tourists, thereby promoting economic growth through cultural heritage.