Kebbi State

Introduction to Kebbi State

Kebbi State (Hausa: Jihar Kebbi; Fulfulde: Leydi Kebbi) is a state in northwestern Nigeria. Kebbi State is bordered east and north of Sokoto and Zamfara states, and to the south by Niger state while its western border forms part of the national borders with Benin Republic for 103 km (64 miles) and Niger for 207 km (129 miles). Named for the city of Birnin Kebbi—the state’s capital and largest city, Kebbi state was formed from Sokoto state on 27 August 1991. Of the 36 states of Nigeria, Kebbi is the tenth largest in area and 18th most populous, with an estimated population of about 4.4 million as of 2016. The state is known as land of equity.

Geographically, the state is within the tropical West Sudanian savanna ecoregion. Important geographic features of Kebbi state include the Sokoto River, which flows through Kebbi into the River Niger, which continues south before reaching the Kainji Lake, half of which is in Kebbi. Among the state’s nature are a number of fish species exhibited during the massive Argungu Fishing Festival, along with hippopotamus, West African manatee, and transient African bush elephant populations.

Ethnically, Kebbi state is inhabited by various ethnic groups, with the Fulani, Hausa, and Zarma peoples living throughout the state. In contrast, the Achipa (Achipawa), Boko-Bala, Dendi, Dukawa, Kambari, Kamuku, Lelna, Puku, and Shanga peoples live along the state’s diverse western and southern borders. Religiously, the majority of the state’s population (~84%) are Muslims while the remaining are followers of Christianity and traditional religions like Bori.

In the pre-colonial period, the area that is now Kebbi state was mainly controlled by the Kebbi Kingdom, a Hausa bakwai state, until the early 1800s, the Fulani jihad seized part of the area and attempted to incorporate it into the Gwandu Emirate under the Sokoto Caliphate.

Over the succeeding century, Kebbi rulers fought Sokoto on-and-off until the 1900s and 1910s, when the British seized control of the area as a part of the Northern Nigeria Protectorate, which later merged into British Nigeria, before becoming independent as Nigeria in 1960. Originally, modern-day Kebbi state was a part of the post-independence Northern Region until 1967, when the region was split and the area became part of the North-Western state.

After the North-Eastern state was split, Sokoto state was formed in 1976 alongside ten other states. Twenty years afterward, a group of LGAs in Sokoto state’s west and south was broken off to form the new Kebbi state.

Economically, Kebbi state is largely based around fishing and agriculture, mainly of sorghum, groundnuts, millet, onion, and rice crops. Other key industries are trading, especially in the city of Birnin Kebbi, and the livestock herding of camels, cattle, goats, and sheep. Kebbi state has the lowest Human Development Index and the sixth lowest GDP in the country.

Historical Background of Kebbi State

The region now known as Kebbi State has a rich and complex history, rooted in the powerful Kebbi Kingdom, one of the renowned Hausa Bakwai, or “Seven Hausa States.” The Kebbi Kingdom once dominated vast territories in what is now northwestern Nigeria, with its influence stretching across the borders of modern Niger and beyond.

Its prominence in the pre-colonial era was a result of both its strategic location and its leadership, which maintained a degree of independence from the surrounding empires, including the neighboring Songhai Empire to the west.

During the early 16th century, Kebbi was at the height of its power under the leadership of Kanta Kotal, a formidable ruler known for his military prowess and state-building efforts. Kanta’s rebellion against the Songhai Empire led to Kebbi’s consolidation as an independent state, marking its breakaway from the influence of Songhai and later from Nupe and Kororofa control. The kingdom became known for its military campaigns, wealth, and political influence, with Kanta’s descendants maintaining control over large swathes of territory.

However, by the early 19th century, the region underwent significant changes following the Fulani Jihad led by Usman Dan Fodio, which culminated in the establishment of the Sokoto Caliphate. The Fulani Jihad, which sought to establish Islamic rule across the Hausa states, brought much of what is now northern Nigeria under the control of the caliphate. Parts of Kebbi fell under the Gwandu Emirate, a key fulcrum of the Sokoto Caliphate’s influence in the region.

Despite the caliphate’s expansion, the rulers of Kebbi resisted complete incorporation into Sokoto’s sphere of influence. This defiance led to a series of conflicts and tensions between Kebbi and Sokoto, as Kebbi’s leadership fought to maintain its autonomy. Over the next century, the region experienced intermittent skirmishes, political maneuvering, and attempts by Sokoto to fully absorb Kebbi into the caliphate’s structure, with varying degrees of success.

It was not until the British colonial conquest in the early 20th century that the region was fully subdued. Following the British victory over the Sokoto Caliphate in 1903, Kebbi, along with much of northern Nigeria, was incorporated into the British colonial system as part of the Northern Nigeria Protectorate. The colonial government implemented administrative reforms that restructured traditional power dynamics, reducing the authority of local rulers, including those of the Gwandu Emirate and Kebbi.

With Nigeria’s independence in 1960, Kebbi became part of the newly formed Northern Region, one of the three regions that made up post-colonial Nigeria. This arrangement lasted until 1967, when the country was restructured into 12 states in response to growing regional tensions and the need for administrative decentralization. Kebbi was incorporated into the newly formed North-Western State, which comprised much of the northwestern part of the country.

In 1976, another major restructuring led to the creation of Sokoto State, of which Kebbi became a part. However, as Nigeria continued to evolve politically, demands for more localized governance and representation grew. In response to these pressures, the Nigerian government created Kebbi State in 1991, carving it out of the larger Sokoto State. This marked the beginning of Kebbi’s existence as a distinct administrative entity, with its capital in Birnin Kebbi, where it has since developed into one of the key states in northwestern Nigeria, rich in culture, history, and economic potential.

History of Zuru

The Zuru Emirate, located in the southern part of Kebbi State, Nigeria, covers an area of approximately 9,000 square kilometers. It is bordered to the north by Gummi in Zamfara State, while Niger State lies to the south. The western border extends over land, ending a few kilometers west of the Dan Zari River, which forms a northwestward extension of the Yauri Emirate.

Administratively, the Zuru Emirate is divided into five chiefdoms: Dabai, Danko, Fakai, Sakaba, and Wasagu. Each of these chiefdoms is led by a third-class chief, who also represents the Zuru Emirate Council. The emirate’s headquarters are situated in Zuru town, within the Dabai chiefdom.

Historically, Zuru is a multi-ethnic region, with its people divided into two primary categories based on settlement patterns. The first group consists of long-term settlers, including ethnic groups like the Achifawa, Kambari, Dukkawa, Fakkawa, Dankawa, Worawa, Katsinawa, and Lelna (also known as Dakarkari, such as the Sindawa subgroup). Some of these groups claim ancestral ties to the Hausa people. The second group consists of more recent settlers, who are often seen as immigrants or temporary residents by the long-established communities.

The history of Zuru is shaped by significant regional upheavals. One such event was the rebellion of Kanta, which marked a break from Songhai and the control of the Nupe and Kororofa empires. Additionally, the Katsinawa, who identify as immigrants from the ancient Katsina State, began settling in the region from the 16th century onward. Their migration played a role in shaping the political and cultural landscape of Zuru, as they integrated with the indigenous populations over time.

Geography of Kebbi State

Kebbi State was established on August 17, 1991, following its separation from the former Sokoto State. As of the 1991 census, the state had an estimated population of 3,137,989 people across its 21 local government areas.

The geography of Kebbi State is diverse, featuring a mix of Sudan and Sahel savannahs. The southern region is predominantly rocky and is intersected by the Niger River, which flows from Benin into the Ngaski Local Government Area (LGA). In contrast, the northern part of the state is characterized by sandy terrain, with the Rima River flowing through Argungu and eventually emptying into the Niger River at Bagudo LGA.

Agriculture is the primary livelihood for the people of Kebbi, especially in rural areas. The state is known for its production of various grains, and livestock rearing and fishing are also common economic activities. The population is primarily engaged in farming, with religious practices predominantly reflecting Islam and Christianity. Kebbi State is divided into 225 political wards, 3,000 settlements, and includes 1,036 hard-to-reach settlements across its 21 local government areas.

Climate

Kebbi State experiences a tropical climate, marked by distinct seasonal variations. The region’s weather is characterized by periods of coldness, wetness, and harmattan winds. The annual rainfall averages between 787.53 mm and 112.21 mm, which is crucial for agricultural production. The rainy season extends from mid-May to mid-September, while the dry season lasts for about seven months.

Temperatures in Kebbi State range annually between 65°F and 104°F. The state generally enjoys clearer skies from November to March, while it remains cloudier from March to November, with cloud cover reaching 68% annually. Humidity levels are relatively high during the rainy season from April to November, with November to July being the windiest period of the year.

Demographics

The population of Kebbi State is predominantly composed of the Fulani and Hausa ethnic groups. Other ethnic communities present in the state include the Zarma, Lelna (Dakarkari), Bussawa (generally speakers of Busa), Dukawa, Kambari, Gungawa, and Kamuku. Islam is the predominant religion in Kebbi, with the majority of its inhabitants being Muslim.

Languages

Hausa is the predominant language spoken throughout Kebbi State, serving as the lingua franca for communication among the various ethnic groups in the region.

Politics in Kebbi State

Kebbi State, located in the North-Western region of Nigeria, is governed by an elected governor who collaborates with the members of the state’s House of Assembly to administer its affairs. Like other Nigerian states, Kebbi’s political system is based on the democratic principles of separation of powers among the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches.

Electoral System

The electoral process in Kebbi State, in line with Nigeria’s system, operates under a modified two-round system. In this system, a candidate can win in the first round by securing a plurality of the votes and at least 25% of the votes in at least two-thirds of the state’s 21 local government areas.

If no candidate meets this threshold, a second round of voting is conducted between the candidate with the highest number of votes and the runner-up who garnered the plurality in the largest number of local government areas.

Executive Branch

The Executive branch of Kebbi State is led by the Governor, who serves as the chief executive officer and chief security officer of the state. The Governor is elected for a four-year term and can serve a maximum of two terms if re-elected.

Supporting the Governor is the Deputy Governor, who helps in policy execution and program coordination. The State Executive Council, comprising Commissioners appointed by the Governor, manages the state’s ministries, such as Agriculture, Health, and Education. Each Commissioner is tasked with implementing government policies and driving progress within their respective areas of focus.

Key priorities of the Executive branch include:

• Agriculture: Leveraging the state’s agricultural potential, especially in rice production, to diversify the economy and create jobs.
• Education: Improving access and quality of education through school infrastructure development and teacher training.
• Healthcare: Expanding healthcare access by improving healthcare facilities and services, including a focus on maternal and child health.
• Infrastructure: Enhancing roads, water supply, and energy to support economic growth and improve living conditions.
• Security: Strengthening law enforcement and community policing to ensure the safety and security of residents.

Legislative Branch

The Kebbi State House of Assembly is the legislative body responsible for law-making, budget approval, and oversight of the Executive branch. It is a unicameral assembly composed of elected representatives from each of the 21 local government areas in the state. These legislators play a critical role in ensuring that the laws and policies enacted reflect the aspirations of their constituencies.

The House of Assembly is led by the Speaker, who oversees legislative proceedings and works to maintain harmony between the Executive and Legislative branches. The Assembly is responsible for scrutinizing the government’s budget, passing state laws, and ensuring that public funds are spent appropriately.

Kebbi State is also divided into three senatorial districts—Kebbi North, Kebbi Central, and Kebbi South—each represented by a senator at the national level in the Nigerian Senate. The state also sends representatives to the Federal House of Representatives, where national laws are formulated.

Judicial Branch

The Judicial branch in Kebbi State functions independently to uphold the rule of law, resolve disputes, and ensure justice for all citizens. The judiciary is headed by the Chief Judge, who oversees the state’s courts, including the High Court, Magistrate Courts, and Customary Courts. This branch ensures checks and balances within the government by interpreting laws and overseeing the legal framework under which both the Executive and Legislative branches operate.

The courts play a crucial role in adjudicating civil and criminal cases, as well as resolving customary and land disputes. They are also responsible for handling election petitions, particularly in cases where disputes arise from the electoral process.

Efforts are ongoing to modernize the judicial system in Kebbi State, ensuring greater efficiency in case management and accessibility to justice. This includes improving the infrastructure of court buildings, digitizing court records, and training judicial officers to handle the complexities of modern governance and law.

The governance structure in Kebbi State is aimed at ensuring accountability, promoting development, and addressing the needs of its citizens through collaboration across its three branches—Executive, Legislative, and Judicial.

Economy of Kebbi State

Kebbi State has a diverse and evolving economy driven primarily by agriculture, with growing opportunities in other sectors. Kebbi plays a crucial role in Nigeria’s agricultural output and is strategically positioning itself to capitalize on its vast natural resources, including agriculture, solid minerals, and cross-border trade.

Natural Resources of Kebbi State

Kebbi State is richly endowed with a diverse range of natural resources that play a crucial role in shaping its economy. These resources include both solid minerals and vast agricultural land, making Kebbi a key player in Nigeria’s quest for economic diversification and industrial development. The state’s natural resources offer opportunities for investment, job creation, and regional economic growth, though many remain underdeveloped.

Solid Minerals

Kebbi State is home to a variety of solid minerals that have the potential to significantly contribute to the state’s economy if fully harnessed. Some of the most important mineral resources found in the state include:

1. Gold

• Location: Found in commercial quantities, particularly in areas like Fakai, Sakaba, Yauri, and Zuru Local Government Areas.
• Current Status: Artisanal and small-scale mining operations are currently active in many parts of the state. However, there is immense potential for more organized, large-scale extraction of gold, which could lead to greater revenue generation and job creation.
• Potential: With proper investment and regulatory oversight, Kebbi could emerge as one of Nigeria’s major gold producers, attracting both local and international investors in mining.

2. Kaolin

• Uses: Kaolin is a versatile mineral used in various industries such as ceramics, paper manufacturing, rubber, paints, and pharmaceuticals. Its fine, white texture makes it valuable in producing porcelain, tiles, and other high-end ceramics.
• Location: Kaolin deposits are scattered across Kebbi State, making it a potential hub for ceramics and other manufacturing industries.
• Potential: Developing Kaolin extraction and processing could foster the growth of related industries in the state, such as ceramic production, which could serve both domestic and international markets.

3. Limestone

• Uses: Limestone is a key raw material in cement production and is also used in construction, agriculture (for soil conditioning), and the manufacture of glass.
• Location: Significant limestone deposits are found in Kebbi, especially in areas like Zuru and Shanga.
• Potential: If fully exploited, Kebbi’s limestone deposits could support the establishment of cement factories, reducing Nigeria’s reliance on imported cement and boosting local construction activities. The resource also holds the potential for export to neighboring West African countries.

4. Gypsum

• Uses: Gypsum is critical for cement and plaster production and is used in the construction industry for making drywall and plasterboards.
• Location: Gypsum deposits in Kebbi State remain largely untapped but are vital for industrial production, particularly in the construction and building materials sectors.
• Potential: The development of the gypsum industry could reduce Nigeria’s dependence on imports for cement additives, lower production costs, and stimulate the local construction materials market.

5. Manganese

• Uses: Manganese is a key component in the production of steel and is also used in batteries, chemicals, and glassmaking. It enhances the strength and toughness of steel, making it a critical resource for the manufacturing and construction industries.
• Location: Manganese deposits in Kebbi offer opportunities for mining and could be a valuable export commodity, particularly given the growing global demand for the mineral.
• Potential: Developing manganese mining could stimulate the local economy, providing jobs in mining and processing industries. It could also attract foreign investment, especially from industries looking for reliable sources of manganese for steel production.

These minerals offer considerable potential for industrialization and economic diversification. However, much like other parts of Nigeria, the exploitation of solid minerals in Kebbi State remains largely underutilized, representing an untapped source of revenue that could boost the state’s economy and create jobs.

Economic Development of Kebbi State

While agriculture dominates the economy, Kebbi State’s government has made efforts to diversify its economic base and reduce over-reliance on a single sector. Several initiatives have been undertaken to explore the state’s potential in other industries, such as manufacturing, solid minerals, and cross-border trade.

Key areas of economic development include:

• Agriculture: The state government continues to promote agricultural development through initiatives like the Anchor Borrowers’ Program, aimed at enhancing rice and wheat production. There is also a focus on expanding fish farming (aquaculture) and increasing output in other crops like maize and groundnuts.
• Industrialization: Efforts are underway to develop agro-processing industries, which would enable the state to process its agricultural products locally. This includes the establishment of rice mills, groundnut oil factories, and other agro-industries that add value to raw materials and create employment.
• Trade and Cross-Border Cooperation: Kebbi’s strategic location, bordering Niger Republic and close to the Benin Republic, offers significant opportunities for cross-border trade. Former Governor Abubakar Atiku Bagudu signed trade agreements with the Beninese government to foster partnerships in trade, industry, and tourism. The state has great potential to become a commercial hub, with improved trade routes and partnerships with neighboring countries.
• Mining: The solid minerals sector remains largely underdeveloped, but with growing interest in formalizing the mining of gold, limestone, and kaolin, the state could see increased revenue generation from this sector. There is a push to attract investments and build the infrastructure necessary to exploit these mineral resources effectively.
• Tourism: Kebbi’s rich cultural heritage, coupled with natural attractions like the Argungu Fishing Festival—one of Africa’s largest cultural events—offers opportunities to develop tourism as a significant revenue stream. Investments in hospitality, cultural festivals, and ecotourism could further enhance the state’s economy.

Agriculture in Kebbi State

Kebbi State is a critical player in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, particularly known for its large-scale rice production. The state has leveraged its favorable climate, fertile land, and access to major rivers, such as the Niger and Rima, to become one of the nation’s top rice producers. Agriculture is not just a key economic activity but also the backbone of the state’s economy, providing employment for a majority of its population, especially in rural areas. Agriculture is the backbone of Kebbi State’s economy, employing a majority of the population.

In addition to rice, as previously stated, Kebbi produces other important crops, including:

• Groundnuts: Widely grown for both local consumption and export, with potential for further industrial processing.
• Millet and Sorghum: Staple crops that are essential to the local diet and economy.
• Livestock and Fisheries: With access to major rivers, Kebbi is also known for livestock farming and fishing, contributing to food security and providing employment for rural communities.

One of the flagship agricultural programs in the state is the Anchor Borrowers’ Rice and Wheat Farming Program, which involves over 70,000 farmers. Launched by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the program aims to boost local production of rice and wheat, reduce the country’s dependency on imports, and improve food security.

In Kebbi, the program has been a game-changer, transforming the state into a major hub for agro-based commodities. With support in the form of low-interest loans, farming inputs like fertilizers and seedlings, and access to modern farming technologies, smallholder farmers in Kebbi have significantly increased their output.

The success of the program has drawn national attention, positioning Kebbi as a model for agricultural development in Nigeria.

In addition to rice, the state is a producer of other crops, including millet, sorghum, maize, groundnuts, onions, and beans. Livestock farming is also widespread, with cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry contributing to the state’s agricultural profile. Furthermore, the state’s proximity to major water bodies makes fishing a significant activity, particularly in communities along the Niger and Rima Rivers.

In 2021, Bagudu visited the Benin Republic, where he signed multiple bilateral trade agreements with the Beninese government and business leaders. These agreements were designed to foster economic cooperation, particularly in trade, industry, and tourism. The aim was to integrate Kebbi more deeply into the regional economy, promote the export of locally-produced agricultural goods, and attract investments in agro-processing industries. These efforts underscored Bagudu’s vision of making Kebbi not just a national leader in rice production but also a key player in the broader West African economy.

The state has also prioritized the development of agro-industrial infrastructure. Investments in rice mills and processing plants have added value to locally grown rice, enabling the state to export both raw and processed agricultural products. This value-added approach has created jobs, spurred local enterprise, and enhanced the overall competitiveness of Kebbi’s agricultural sector.

Additionally, Kebbi is part of the Nigeria-Morocco fertilizer partnership, a significant collaboration between Nigeria and Morocco to produce high-quality fertilizers. This initiative has further bolstered the state’s agricultural productivity, as farmers now have better access to affordable and effective fertilizers, which improve crop yields. This collaboration is part of a broader strategy to position Nigeria, and Kebbi in particular, as a regional agricultural powerhouse.

In summary, Kebbi State’s agriculture sector is not only a key driver of its economy but is also vital to Nigeria’s national food security. With strategic programs, regional partnerships, and investment in agro-processing, Kebbi continues to solidify its role as a hub for agricultural innovation and production in Nigeria and the West African sub-region.

Challenges

Despite its potential, Kebbi State faces several challenges that hinder economic development:

• Infrastructure Deficits: Poor road networks, inadequate power supply, and limited industrial infrastructure make it difficult to attract large-scale investments in manufacturing and mining.
• Dependence on Agriculture: While agriculture is a strength, reliance on farming, particularly rice production, makes the economy vulnerable to climate change, fluctuating market prices, and other external shocks.
• Underutilization of Resources: Solid minerals and tourism sectors are still underdeveloped, leaving much of the state’s economic potential untapped.

Kebbi State’s economy is built on a solid foundation of agriculture, with rice production playing a central role in its development. However, efforts to diversify the economy by exploring solid minerals, industrialization, and cross-border trade show promising potential for sustainable growth. By addressing infrastructural challenges and fully tapping into its natural resources, Kebbi has the potential to emerge as a significant economic player in Nigeria’s North-Western region.

Tertiary Institutions of Learning of Kebbi State

Kebbi State is home to several tertiary institutions, including universities, polytechnics, and specialized colleges. These institutions provide higher education and training in various fields, contributing to the development of the state’s workforce.

• Federal University, Birnin Kebbi
• Federal University of Agriculture, Zuru
• Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero
• Waziri Umaru Federal Polytechnic, Birnin Kebbi
• Kebbi State Polytechnic, Dakin Gari
• Adamu Augie College of Education, Argungu
• Kebbi State College of Nursing and Midwifery, Birnin Kebbi
• Kebbi State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Jega
• Kebbi State College of Basic and Advanced Studies, Yauri
• Sajo College of Nursing Sciences, Birnin Kebbi

These institutions play a critical role in producing skilled professionals, particularly in education, health, and agricultural sciences.

Transport in Kebbi State

Federal Highways

Kebbi State is connected to other regions through a network of federal highways that play a crucial role in facilitating movement and trade. Some of the major highways include:

• A1 Highway: This is a key arterial road that runs through the state, starting from Niger State at Makirin and passing through Yelwa and Koko before entering Sokoto State. The highway re-enters Kebbi at various points, including Tungan Ilo via Kuchi in Kebbe LGA, continuing through Maishaika and Jega. It exits again into Sokoto State for the second time at Barkeji, providing a vital link between Kebbi and its neighboring states to the north and northeast.

International Access

Kebbi State also serves as a gateway for cross-border trade with Niger Republic. A major road connecting Bunza to Kamba leads southwest to RN8, a highway in Niger Republic, facilitating cross-border movement and commerce. This route is significant for agricultural exports and trade between the two nations, enhancing Kebbi’s position as a hub for international trade in the region.

This network of federal roads supports both local and international trade, allowing for the transport of goods such as agricultural products, livestock, and textiles, which are central to Kebbi’s economy. However, there is room for improvement in the quality and maintenance of these roads to fully unlock the state’s potential as a commercial and agricultural hub.

Other major roads

• the Birnin-Kebbi-Anmawa Rd northwest from A1 at Jega to Kalgo,
• the Birnin-Kebbu-Anmawa Rd north from Kalgo via Birnin Kebbi and Zauro to Argungu as the Birnin Kebbi-Argungu Rd,
• the Dagawa-Argungu Rd east to Sokoto State near Fakwon Sarki as the Arugungu-Iyabo-Sokoto Rd,
• the Maidahin-Daringari-Kalgo Junction Rd south from Kalgo to Bunza,
• the Dakingari-Bunza Rd south from Bunza via Dakingari and Zagga,
• the Bin Yauri-Rijau Rd east from A1 at Bin Yauri via Birnin Yauri and Gwanda to Niger State at Kambuwa as the Maburo Rijau Rd,
• the Fakai-Iri-Rijau Rd north from Niger State via Bajida,
• the Zuru-Mahuta Rd east from Fakai to Dabai, where one branch goes north via Donko to Zamfara State, and another branch goes south to Niger State as the Rijau-Zuru Rd.

Airports

• Sir Ahmadu Bello International at Birnin Kebbi with regular flights to Lagos and Abuja, with Muslim pilgrims to Saudi Arabia during the Haji
  Tuga Airstrip near Bagudo.

Tourist Attractions in Kebbi State

Kebbi State, located in the northwestern region of Nigeria, is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. While it is less renowned compared to other Nigerian states for tourism, Kebbi offers a variety of attractions, from cultural festivals to historical landmarks and natural wonders. These attractions make the state a hidden gem for visitors seeking to explore the traditional and scenic aspects of Nigeria.

1. Argungu Fishing Festival

• Location: Argungu Town
• Description: The Argungu Fishing Festival is one of the most famous cultural festivals in Nigeria, dating back to the 1930s. It is held annually in the town of Argungu and celebrates the rich traditions of the people of Kebbi. The festival is a grand display of competitive fishing, where thousands of fishermen, armed with nets, wade into the river to catch the largest fish. The winner is the one who catches the biggest fish, sometimes weighing over 50kg. The event also includes cultural displays, wrestling, boat races, and dances, attracting tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.
• Significance: It promotes cultural heritage, eco-tourism, and serves as a major tourist event in the state, drawing international attention.

2. Girmache Shrine

• Location: Zuru
• Description: The Girmache Shrine is a sacred site located in the town of Zuru, which holds significant cultural importance to the Dakarkari people. The shrine is believed to be a place of spiritual power where traditional rituals and sacrifices are performed to honor ancestors and seek blessings. It is a site of pilgrimage for the local people and offers visitors a glimpse into the traditional spiritual practices of the region.
• Significance: It is an important cultural and spiritual landmark that reflects the ancient religious beliefs and practices of the Dakarkari people.

3. Kanta Museum

• Location: Argungu
• Description: The Kanta Museum, located in Argungu, is named after Muhammadu Kanta, the founder of the Kebbi Kingdom. The museum houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, weapons, traditional regalia, and relics dating back to the 16th century. Visitors can learn about the history of the Kebbi Kingdom, its leaders, and the region’s involvement in early Nigerian history, including its role in resisting external domination and trade networks.
• Significance: The museum provides an in-depth look at the rich history and heritage of the Kebbi people and serves as an educational hub for those interested in Nigerian history.

4. Zuru Hills

• Location: Zuru
• Description: The Zuru Hills offer stunning landscapes and picturesque views, making them a perfect destination for nature lovers, hikers, and adventure seekers. The hills, located near the town of Zuru, provide a peaceful retreat into nature and are ideal for picnics and hiking excursions. The surrounding area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, offering opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
• Significance: The Zuru Hills are not only beautiful but also represent the natural diversity of Kebbi, attracting tourists interested in eco-tourism and outdoor activities.

5. Rima River

• Location: Argungu
• Description: The Rima River flows through the northern part of Kebbi State and is famous for being the site of the Argungu Fishing Festival. The river is not only significant for its cultural ties but also for its scenic beauty. Visitors can enjoy boat rides and fishing activities, as well as scenic views along the riverbanks, which are dotted with small villages and traditional farmlands.
• Significance: The Rima River is a vital ecological and cultural resource in Kebbi, contributing to both the local economy and cultural practices.

6. Nagwamatse Well

• Location: Birnin Kebbi
• Description: The Nagwamatse Well is a historical landmark located in the state’s capital, Birnin Kebbi. It is named after a famous warrior and leader, Nagwamatse, who played a significant role in the history of the region. The well, which has survived for centuries, is a testament to the ancient engineering and water management systems used by the people of Kebbi.
• Significance: It is an important historical site, reflecting the resilience and ingenuity of the Kebbi people in maintaining water sources in the arid Sahel region.

7. Fugama Rock Shelter

• Location: Zuru
• Description: The Fugama Rock Shelter is an archaeological site located near Zuru. It is believed to have been used by ancient communities for shelter and protection. The shelter is an important site for researchers studying early human habitation in the region. Visitors can explore the caves and rock formations while learning about the prehistoric cultures that once lived in the area.
• Significance: The site offers valuable insights into the early history of human settlement in Kebbi, attracting archaeologists and history enthusiasts.

8. Koko Marine

• Location: Koko, Yauri LGA
• Description: Koko is a riverside town known for its picturesque landscapes and marine activities. The Koko Marine is a port on the River Niger, offering opportunities for boat trips and fishing. It is a serene place for visitors looking to experience the tranquility of riverside life. The area also has a rich biodiversity, with opportunities for birdwatching and nature exploration.
• Significance: The town is a key spot for river transportation and serves as a gateway to other riverine destinations along the Niger River.

9. Emir’s Palace in Gwandu

• Location: Gwandu
• Description: The Emir’s Palace in Gwandu is one of the oldest traditional palaces in northern Nigeria. It serves as the residence of the Emir of Gwandu, a significant religious and political leader in the state. The palace is a masterpiece of traditional architecture, adorned with historical artifacts and symbols of Kebbi’s royal heritage.
• Significance: It is a symbol of the region’s traditional leadership and offers a glimpse into the political and cultural history of Kebbi.

10. Yelwa Yauri

• Location: Yauri
• Description: Yelwa Yauri is a historic town located near the River Niger. The town is known for its unique history as the center of the Yauri Emirate. It is also a gateway to the river, making it an important location for fishing, trade, and cultural exchange.
• Significance: It serves as a historical and cultural hub, with its significance rooted in the ancient emirate system and its strategic position along the Niger River.

Kebbi State is a treasure trove of cultural and natural attractions, ranging from the world-renowned Argungu Fishing Festival to the serene Zuru Hills and the historically rich Kanta Museum. These diverse tourist attractions not only offer insight into the state’s vibrant culture and history but also provide opportunities for eco-tourism and adventure, making Kebbi a unique destination for visitors seeking an authentic Nigerian experience.

Major incidents

Kebbi boat disaster on 26 May 2021.

Bandit attacks

Kebbi state is badly affected by the Nigerian bandit conflict. Banditry attacks in the state include the 2021 Kebbi massacre on 3 June 2021, the Kebbi kidnapping on 24 June 2021, the Dankade massacre on 14-15 January 2022 and the 2022 Kebbi massacres on 8 March of the same year.

Agriculture

Despite concerted effort by the State Government to boost and modernize agriculture, it has largely remained at the rudimentary level with most of the farming communities producing at subsistence level.

The problems of agriculture are aggravated by factors such as low level of technology and lack of access to credit on reasonable terms, increasing low level and duration of rainfall, fragmentation of farmland resulting from inheritance and population growth, which has continuously reduced and individual household farm size, inability to secure farm inputs at the right time and non-availability of improved which combined with low level of soil fertility which in turn in low yield per hectare, at about 40% of the optimum.

The situation is particularly aggravated by the absence of processing industries which are capable of taking up surpluses produced. In addition, while the production of stable foods such as rice, millet, sorghum and others increasing over the years, the production of cash crops decreased.

Most families tend to consume what they produce as a result of expanding family size and other economic factors thereby reducing their sources of income.

Commerce

After agriculture, commerce is the largest employer of able bodies’ workforce in the state. Commerce is however, mostly dominated by distributive trade in manufactured goods and textiles although there is some level of activity in primary products. With an estimated poverty level of 72% the purchasing power of the citizenry is low. Consequently there is absence of large scale distributors and most of the supermarkets buy finished goods in Sokoto from major distributors for resale in the State.

Conclusion

Kebbi State, located in northwestern Nigeria, is known for its rich cultural heritage, agricultural economy, and historical significance. As one of Nigeria’s northern states, it shares borders with Sokoto, Niger, and Zamfara states, as well as the Republic of Niger. The state’s capital is Birnin Kebbi.

Kebbi is recognized for its agricultural contributions, particularly in rice farming, making it a key player in Nigeria’s rice production through initiatives like the Anchor Borrowers’ Programme. The state is also famous for the Argungu Fishing Festival, a UNESCO-recognized cultural event that attracts tourists.

Despite its economic and cultural strengths, Kebbi State faces challenges such as limited infrastructure development, security concerns in some areas, and the need for improved education and healthcare systems. However, with continued investment in agriculture, tourism, and infrastructure, Kebbi has the potential for significant socio-economic growth.