NTDC, boat operators gear up for Borgu Festival

Category: News Published on Saturday, 16 March 2013 05:00 Written by Mohammed S. Shehu Hits: 336

Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC) and the Association of Tourist Boat Operators have stepped up preparation for the Borgu International Cultural Festival slated for April.

Information from the publicity committee of the festival yesterday said the festival which is rooted in the rich culture and tradition of the famous Borgu Kingdom is expected to attract tourists from Ghana, Togo and Niger Benin Republic will revive all aspects of the economic and cultural values of the people.
Also to grace the occasion which will have a special fishing segment, are members of the diplomatic corps, senior northern emirs and other traditional rulers in the country. A grand durbar, boat regatta and cultural troupe will add spice to the festival that may out rival the Argungu Fishing Festival in Kebbi.
Already, the Borgu kingdom is wearing new looks as the festival ground at Sabuke square and the beachfront near the Kainji lake Dam site is nearing completion.
Significantly, the festival is endorsed by NTDC as an international tourism forum and therefore, will be placed on the international tourism festival circuit within and outside Nigeria. As a plus to the richness of the festival, the vibrant Nigerian Tourist Boats Operators led by their president Tarzan Balogun has agreed to put up a signature showpiece event at Borgu beachfront.
The festival is planned to coincide with the 45th Anniversary of New Bussa in Niger State, home to the famous Kanji Dam and Kainji Lake National Park.