A dramatic turn of events overshadowed one of Nigeria’s most iconic cultural celebrations on 14 February 2026 as several athletes competing in this year’s Argungu Fishing and Cultural Festival suddenly collapsed just hours before the competition’s final events. What was expected to be a joyful climax to weeks of festivities became a scene of medical urgency, concern and heightened scrutiny over participant welfare.
The Argungu Festival, held annually in Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, draws competitors, locals and tourists from across Nigeria and abroad. Renowned for its traditional fishing competitions where participants dive into the waters of the Kebbi River to catch fish with bare hands the festival also includes canoe races, cultural dances, music, and trade showcases. It is a celebration of heritage, community identity and inter-ethnic unity. However, this year’s festivities were marred by an unexpected and alarming incident when several athletes participating in the fishing trials reportedly collapsed due to sudden health distress. Some competitors were treated on site by medical teams, while others were evacuated to nearby hospitals for further care.
Unexpected health incidents shock festival grounds
Participants began experiencing symptoms ranging from extreme exhaustion to fainting spells in the late morning, just hours before the finals were scheduled to begin. Festival organisers and health officials said the early stages of the competitions had been conducted under sweltering temperatures, and some athletes appeared to be struggling with the conditions. Several competitors were seen being assisted by fellow athletes and emergency responders, while volunteers helped transport the affected individuals to waiting medical stations. Medical staff administered rehydration fluids and monitored vital signs, with at least two cases reported as requiring urgent hospital care.
Kebbi State health officials said they are investigating whether dehydration, heat stress, or other underlying medical factors might have contributed to the collapses. Authorities emphasised that all athletes had passed routine pre-event medical checks but acknowledged that prolonged exertion under intense heat can pose serious risks.
Festival officials respond, assure safety protocols
Festival organisers voiced concern over the incidents and expressed sympathy for all affected participants. They assured the public that emergency medical services were promptly activated and that efforts were underway to ensure the wellbeing of the competitors.
“We deeply regret what happened today,” said a senior festival coordinator. “We are focused on the health and safety of every participant and are working closely with medical teams to assess the situation. The Argungu Festival has always been about celebration and unity, and we will do everything necessary to protect our community.”
Officials noted that additional precautionary measures including extra medical stations and hydration points had been put in place earlier in the week. However, they acknowledged that the combination of intense physical activity, high temperatures and crowded conditions may have exacerbated risks for some athletes.
Athletes speak out
Some athletes who witnessed the incidents shared their experiences and reactions. One competitor said he had been looking forward to the finale for months, training rigorously for the opportunity to showcase his skills.
“We were excited and prepared,” he said. “But today’s heat was heavy, and many of us were dehydrated before we knew it. It was frightening to see friends collapse.” Another participant expressed frustration that more resting zones and cooling stations were not sufficiently accessible along the riverbanks, especially for those who had competed earlier in the day
Visitors and spectators react
Spectators, many of whom had travelled from different regions to attend the festival, reacted with concern and empathy. Families of athletes and attendees were seen offering support, sharing water, and comforting one another. Some visitors said the festival’s popularity and large turnout may require organisers to reconsider event scheduling and safety planning moving forward.
“It’s a beautiful festival, but this kind of incident shows we need to put even stronger medical safeguards in place,” said one tourist from Lagos. “People come from all over, and we want to enjoy the traditions safely
Safety and future preparations
Health authorities and festival organisers announced that they will conduct a thorough review of the incident, including examining environmental conditions, medical readiness, and the physical demands placed on competitors.
The Kebbi State Ministry of Health said it will issue recommendations aimed at improving athlete safety, including enhanced pre-event health screenings, additional shade and hydration stations, and clearer heat-risk warnings for future festivals.
Experts say that popular festivals like Argungu which attract large crowds and involve physically demanding competitions should incorporate comprehensive risk management plans to safeguard participants and visitors alike.
