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Festival celebrates centuries-old water sport and rich Nigerian heritage

On the islands of the Niger River in northern Nigeria, there once lived the Gungawa people. They made their homes among the water, living in harmony with its flow.

Today, the Gungawa people's boat regatta festival, held annually in Yauri, Kebbi State, Nigeria, stands as a symbol of the vibrant aquatic culture of the riverine communities along the longest waterway in western Africa, the Niger River.

Yauri, one of Kebbi State's four emirates — a traditional administrative region with deep historical roots — was once an ancient kingdom in Hausa land. Known for its thrilling water sports events, Yauri has become a key cultural destination.