The Bauchi State Ministry of Tourism and Culture has expressed it’s commitment to revive the Maladumba International Fishing and Cultural Festival to further boost tourism and revenue generation in the state.
The General Manager, State Tourism Corporation, Dr Muhamnad Nasiru Yusuf stated this today in Bauchi.
He said the Maladumba Lake in Misau is one of the natural lakes in Africa.
“Maladumba Lake is a natural, shallow lake in Misau Local Government area of Bauchi State. The lake has a unique assemblage of plant and animal species that are important for the maintenance of biological diversity.
“It supports a large number of migrant bird species such as the Grey Heron, white-necked stork, green fruit pigeon, etc”.
“The lake has a high diversity of fish species and thus plays an important role as a source of protein for the local population and enhances the local economy.
“Agriculture, grazing, hunting, and recreation are also practiced by the surrounding population,” Dr Yusuf said.
He added that “We even plan to have annual fishing this year or early next year because since 1985 there has been no any annual fishing festival in Maladumba”.
He said “The history of Maladumba is not only the fish, it is a natural lake on Africa. Maladumba is the center or the area of migratory birds, they come to Maladumba from across the world. If you come to Maladumba you will identify different species of birds from across the world.
“They give birth there and we have different species of birds, different types of fish” the General Manager said, adding “we are planning to develop a challet there so that people can go there for their leisure activities.
“In the long run we may have another wild park so that we can introduce animals there so that people can go and see the natural.lake, different species of birds and fish”.
Dr Yusuf expressed concern over the decline in tourism activities, saying the state government is making serious efforts to boost tourism sector.
He said Governor Bala Mohammed exprressed keen interest to revive all historical sites and monuments, traditional and cultural festivals and natural attractions for upgrading as tourists attractions.
The General Manager said the Governor is committed to revitalise all the tourism sector as part of efforts to attract tourists from all over the world.
He said modalities were being worked out for involvement of the universities, research centers and private sector to make tourism viable in the state.
