From the grand stages of Lagos to the flowing rivers of Kebbi, Nigeria’s cultural festivals are powerful expressions of identity, unity, and creativity. In this article, we take you on a journey through two iconic celebrations—one that made history, and one that continues to make it every year.

First, we look back at FESTAC ’77, the legendary pan-African festival that turned Nigeria into a global hub for Black arts and culture. It was a moment of pride, ambition, and cultural renaissance that brought together artists, musicians, and thinkers from across Africa and the diaspora. Then, we step into the heart of the Argungu Fishing Festival, a living tradition that transforms a quiet town into a pulsing center of music, dance, and fierce competition. With roots in peace and unity, this modern-day spectacle is as thrilling as it is meaningful. Past and present, these festivals show us the spirit of Nigeria in full color—resilient, diverse, and unforgettable.

Blast to the Past: FESTAC '77: A Landmark Celebration of African Culture

Did you know? Festac Town, located in Lagos, was built in 1977 on the initiative of the Nigerian government to host around 45,000 visitors, along with Nigerian employees and officers, during the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture (FESTAC). The town was named after the festival, which is the reason for its name today.

The Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture, or FESTAC '77, was like a cultural kaleidoscope, a time when Lagos, Nigeria, became the vibrant heartbeat of Africa. From January 15 to February 12, 1977, the festival brought together people from across the African continent and the African diaspora, showcasing the rich and diverse cultures, arts, and traditions of Africa. It aimed to highlight the achievements of African peoples, celebrate African unity, and promote solidarity among the African nations.

The festival was inspired by the success of the first World Festival of Black Arts held in Dakar, Senegal, in 1966. The Nigerian government, under General Olusegun Obasanjo's regime, saw the festival as a way to assert Nigeria’s leadership in Africa and the world, while also showcasing the vibrancy and diversity of African cultures. The event was also intended to boost national pride and contribute to the cultural renaissance across the continent.

Festac Village was a housing area built to accommodate about 17,000 people for the FESTAC '77 festival. It was part of a larger plan by the government to ease housing pressure in Lagos. The village was planned to be completed within two years, with over 40 contractors working on the project. By the time of the festival, approximately 5,000 homes were finished, and another 5,700 were expected to be completed by the end of 1977. During the festival, the village also served as a space for performers to rehearse their routines and interact with one another, both during the day and at night.

A modern, multipurpose theatre was built to host performances and lectures during the festival, and it was designed to be a lasting center for African art and culture. The theatre's design was inspired by the Palace of Culture and Sports in Varna, Bulgaria, and was built by a Bulgarian company called Technoexportstroy. The complex included two exhibition halls, a performance hall with a capacity of about 5,000 people, a conference hall with around 1,600 seats, and two cinema halls.

FESTAC '77 brought together an extraordinary lineup of influential artists and intellectuals from across Africa and the diaspora. Iconic performers like Miriam Makeba, Stevie Wonder, Sarah Vaughan, and Hugh Masekela used music to celebrate African identity and advocate for unity and justice. Jazz musicians Abdullah Ibrahim and Ali Farka Touré added rich, traditional sounds to the cultural mix.

The reception of FESTAC '77 was generally positive, with the festival being hailed as a major success in promoting African culture and fostering a sense of unity among African nations. For many Africans, especially those in the diaspora, it was a chance to reconnect with their roots, and the festival was seen as a powerful affirmation of Africa's identity and cultural contributions to the world.

However, there were also criticisms. Some felt that the festival's focus on high-profile international artists and the significant resources invested in the event created a disconnect from the everyday struggles of ordinary Africans. There were also logistical challenges, with some performances being delayed, and critiques regarding the accessibility of the event for the general population.

Politically, the festival took place under Nigeria’s military regime, which led to some intellectuals and artists expressing concern about the government’s role in using the event for political gain. The event was seen by some as an opportunity for the Nigerian government to showcase its leadership in Africa and the world, which raised questions about the relationship between art, politics, and state power.

Fela Kuti was initially a member of the FESTAC organizing committee, alongside prominent Nigerian performers like Hubert Ogunde and others. However, both Fela and Ogunde resigned shortly before the festival kicked off on January 15, 1977. Fela, who was part of the FESTAC '77 Planning Committee, had a significant disagreement with the chairman, Maj. Gen. I.B. Haruna, when his proposed 9-point program—aimed at making the festival more impactful—was rejected. As a result, Fela publicly announced in July 1976 that he could no longer support FESTAC '77.

Beyond its immediate cultural impact, FESTAC '77 helped to lay the groundwork for future Pan-African initiatives, fostering greater cooperation and collaboration between African nations and the African diaspora. The festival is often remembered as a historic event that demonstrated the power of culture to unite people across borders, backgrounds, and experiences.

Today, FESTAC '77 is regarded as one of the most significant cultural events in the history of the African continent. It remains a symbol of African unity, creativity, and resilience, and its legacy continues to inspire cultural movements and festivals across Africa and the world.

Back to the Present: Argungu Fishing Festival

Our journey now shifts from a landmark moment in history to a celebration deeply rooted in nature—one that continues to thrive with energy and purpose. Held every February or March, the Argungu Festival is more than just an event; it's a living tradition with origins dating back to 1934. Born from a historic truce between the Sokoto Caliphate and the Kebbi Kingdom, what began as a gesture of peace has evolved into one of Africa’s most electrifying cultural spectacles. Two former rivals laid down their arms, and in the spirit of unity, gave birth to a festival that today pulses with music, dance, and the dramatic thrill of its legendary fishing contest.

On the final day, the banks of the river fill with thousands of spectators as the fishermen—sometimes in the thousands—stand poised at the water’s edge. At the sound of a single gunshot, they charge into the river in a stunning show of unity and power, armed with hand-woven fish traps or nothing at all. For one thrilling hour, the river becomes a frenzy of flailing arms, swirling water, and ancestral pride, as each man tries to land the biggest catch. An intriguing legend tells of a mystical fish that is said to inhabit the river, believed to have the power to grant wishes. Fishermen who catch this fish during the festival are thought to be blessed with good fortune and prosperity for the year ahead.

The stakes are sky-high. In 2020, the festival’s champion pulled a 78-kilogram fish from the depths and claimed N10 million, two cars, and two Hajj tickets. One intriguing tale is about a magical fish believed to live in the river, which is said to grant wishes. Fishermen who catch this fish during the festival are believed to be blessed with prosperity and luck for the year.

Neighboring Towns & Things to See:
If frantic fishermen is not your cup of tea, visitors can explore the Kanta Museum in Argungu and venture to Birnin Kebbi, the state’s capital, known for its historic significance. The nearby Zuru Hills also offer natural beauty and an escape from the hustle and bustle of the festival.

Itinerary & Special Processions:

• Day 1: Grand Opening
  The festival kicks off with a formal opening ceremony, complete with speeches from local dignitaries, traditional dancers, and drummers setting the tone for the celebrations. The streets come alive with the sounds of music and the colors of local attire, and visitors can feel the energy building.
  
  

• Day 2: Cultural Parade
  This day is dedicated to showcasing the diverse cultural heritage of the region. A procession winds through the streets, featuring dancers in bright, colorful costumes, along with performances of traditional music. It’s a day to experience the essence of the festival, and locals are eager to share their customs with visitors.
  
  

• Day 3: Boat Races & Traditional Displays
  The excitement intensifies as fishermen compete in boat races. Dressed in traditional fishing gear, they race along the river, showcasing their speed and skill. Traditional music and dance performances continue, keeping the energy high throughout the day.
  
  

• Day 4: The Grand Fishing Contest
  The final day is the highlight of the festival, with fishermen taking to the river for the coveted fishing competition. Thousands of people gather to watch as participants compete to catch the biggest fish. The day ends with celebrations, feasting, and a sense of pride shared by everyone involved.

From the historic spectacle of FESTAC ’77 to the thrilling tradition of the Argungu Fishing Festival, one thing is clear—Nigerians are endlessly creative, joyful, and deeply rooted in culture. These two festivals, though different in time and focus, reflect a shared national spirit: a passion for art, storytelling, celebration, and unity.

But these are just a glimpse of Nigeria’s vibrant festival landscape.

Today, events like the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) and Art X Lagos carry the torch lit by FESTAC '77—continuing its legacy by creating platforms for African voices, visions, and ideas. These festivals celebrate not only artistic excellence but also the cultural confidence that FESTAC helped ignite.

Still, while Argungu continues to thrive, it too faces the test of time. So if you get the chance, go and experience it for yourself—before it becomes a relic of memory, like FESTAC '77. Because in Nigeria, festivals are more than events—they are living expressions of who we are, where we’ve been, and where we’re going.