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Afon, the administrative center of Asa, showcased its presence on the tourism map on Sunday, 23rd of February 2025, during its annual fishing festival, attracting a diverse array of tourists from over 10 states across federation, content creators, and key government officials to the banks of the Asa River.
This centuries-old fishing festival gained prominence in 2023 when Jamiu Balogun, an indigene of Afon in collaboration with Visit Kwara, a tourism promotion platform, began promoting the event.
Jamiu Balogun, the lead organizer of Afon Fishing Festival, expressed to reporters in Afon that the festival has been steadily gaining popularity since incorporating elements of tourism packaging.
However, he emphasized the importance of government support from national, state, and international tourism organizations due to the historical and cultural significance of the Asa River, which connects over 20 communities in Asa Local Government.
The District Head of Afon, Mall. Hanafi Kola Balogun, who also serves as the Chairman of Traditional Rulers in Asa local government, highlighted the longstanding tradition of the fishing festival in Afon and his commitment to promoting it on a global scale.
He mentioned ongoing efforts to engage with the state government, which explained the presence of government officials at the festival.
Echoing this sentiment, Alhaji Shehu Amasa Yahaya, the chairman of Asa Local Government, stressed the vital role of tourism in stimulating the local economy of Afon, especially in comparison to larger cities like Ilorin, the state capital.
He affirmed the area council’s support for the AFF and its endeavors.
Speaking with the Chief Fisher Head, Alhaji Alabi Abdullahi Laraba, he also expressed his excitement about the shape the festival is taking, particular during his reign. He further emphasize to preserve the festival ahead of the next generation.
Among the dignitaries and traditional rulers at the Fishing festival were Honourable Lateef Gidado Alakawa, Chairman Niger River Lower Basin, Alhaji Issa Amosa, the Chairman of Afon Community, Alhaji Abdulraman Abdulrasaq, Alhaji Ganiyu Atebise, Former TIC Chairman, Asa LG, Hon. Sulaiman Lekan Gadaff, Alangua Abayawo, Magaji Afon, Baale Oke-Ogba among many others.
The festival also featured a mountain climbing tour that attracted tourists, content creators, safari enthusiasts, and government officials to explore potential tourist sites like the Odoode Hills in Afon District.
Brighton Udezi, a member of BMW GS Nigeria, a biking safari group, and his team marveled at the breathtaking views of the Odoode Hills during their expedition.
Damilola Amolegbe, the executive secretary of Kwara State Education Trust Fund, expressed her delight in participating in the relaxing tour.
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