The fourth edition of Yauri Rigata and Cultural Festival is scheduled to hold from 13th to 15th of February, 2025.
This was announced by the National Chairman of the festival, who is also the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Yakubu Bala-Tafida at a press briefing marking the commencement of the 2025 Yauri Annual Rigata and Cultural Festival.
He said Rigata is a Gunganci word, which means marine war in its social context, saying that the word connotes buoyancy and prestige.
The national chairman noted that the festival involves riverine manoeuvres including water sports and entertainment, adding that it started about 200 years ago as a display of naval strength of Gungu people.
“During the display, Gungu warriors annually attack the most dangerous animals, hippopotamus, in the area on the River Niger.
“The warriors will board on various sizes of canoes with different types of weapons and attack the wild animals,” he said
According to the SSG, this year’s event is packaged to feature a number of spectacular and thrilling events aimed at showcasing the rich and diverse cultural heritage of the good people of Yauri Emirate.
Bala-Tafida stated that the event would also feature trade fair exhibition, agricultural show, cultural performances and Rigata main event, adding that the event would be spread over a period of three days.
The national chairman of the festival appreciated Gov. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, Gamjin Yauri, for ensuring that the event takes place and hope that the festival would receive the widest publicity.
