Governor Idris presented a paper titled Fishing Tourism and Sustainable Development in Nigeria, outlining measures to unlock the festival's economic potential. He recommended that the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation list the Argungu festival on the nation's annual tourism calendar and called on the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy to speed up work on the abandoned permanent festival arena.
To ensure effective coordination, Governor Idris plans to sponsor an Executive Bill for the establishment of an independent management agency to oversee the event. The agency would craft a modern marketing strategy to boost the festival's global visibility and attract investors.
Idris stressed that the festival is a strategic asset for job creation, fisheries development, cultural diplomacy, and international partnerships. He believes the festival offers Kebbi State and Nigeria a platform to engage local and international audiences, deepening relationships that will open new frontiers for economic growth.
The Governor also underscored the importance of Nigeria's fisheries sector and the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy in supporting initiatives that generate sustainable revenue and employment.