Afon, the administrative headquarters of Asa Local Government Area in Kwara State, is home to several notable tourist attractions, including the historic Shehu Alimi’s Mosque, the natural well water at Kuwo in the Alapa district, and the scenic cattle dam and grazing reserve at Ila-Oja.

The Asa people are renowned for their breathtaking landscapes, pleasant climate, and unique lifestyle. Few may know, however, that Afon also hosts an annual fishing festival, which has become a significant cultural event uniting residents of all ages in celebration.

Similar to the famous Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi State, the Afon Fishing Festival draws participants not only from the local community but also from neighbouring areas. Celebrated annually between February and March, and occasionally extending into April, the festival fosters community spirit and showcases traditional customs.

Preparations begin with the clearing of the river, removing debris and obstacles to ensure its readiness for the festivities.

After this, fishing nets are set up to block off two edges of the designated fishing area, ensuring that the fish do not escape.

Once the river is prepared, the fishing begins. Any fish caught by an individual belongs to them, except for large fish, which are shared among all participants. Those who are unable to catch fish receive compensation from the catches of others.

Unlike other fishing festivals that are competitive, the Afon fishing festival is more of a fun fair and it has become a unifying event not just for the Afon community, but also for neighbouring communities.

Like the Argungun festival in Kebbi State, the locals are of the opinion that Kwara State government can unlock the hidden potentials in Afon fishing festival as it’s capables of boosting the economy of the state.

A community leader, Mal AbdulRahman Sanni urged the state government to unlock the hidden potentials in the Afon fishing festival just as the Kebbi State Government did to Argungun fishing festival.

He added:” Tourism is said to be vital for the success of many economies the world over. There are several benefits of tourism on host destinations. Tourism boosts the revenue of the economy, creates thousands of jobs, develops the infrastructure of a country, and plants a sense of cultural exchange between foreigners and citizens.

“The number of jobs created by tourism in many different areas is significant. These jobs are not only a part of the tourism sector but also include the agricultural sector, communication sector, health sector, and the educational sector.

“Many tourists travel to experience the hosting destination’s culture, different traditions, and gastronomy. This is very profitable to local restaurants, shopping centres, stores among others.

“Therefore, the present government in Kwara State should look at a way of harnessing the hidden potentials in Afon fishing festival to place the state on world map and boost the state’s economy.

All efforts to get the state government’s reaction to the good development through the commisssioner for Agriculture and Natural Resources, Alh AbdulLateef Gidado proved abortive.

Gidado hails from Asa local government and he’s passionate about the development of the area.