Usman's catch earned him two new saloon cars and 1-million-naira cash prize....

Abubakar Usman's 59-kilogramme monster catch was the major highlight of Argungu fishing festival, which returned Saturday after a six-year hiatus because of the insecurity in Nigeria's Kebbi state.

Thousands of people, including a handful of women and children, defied the blistering 39-degree heat to take part. Fishermen from Nigeria's West African neighbours Niger, Chad, and Togo also came to compete.

The fishing festival was first staged in 1934 by the then traditional ruler of Argungu, Muhammad Sama.

Over the decades, the festival grew into one of Nigeria's biggest cultural events, drawing international visitors, before insecurity and funding shortages reduced it to an occasional celebration.

On Saturday, fishermen floated on brown, round gourds as they hunted for the biggest catch in Matan Fada river, using only their hands and nets in the river's murky waters.

Thousands of spectators lined the riverbank cheering loudly.

For the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, hosting the festival this year was a victory of some sort.

Parts of northwestern state have seen sporadic jihadist attacks in recent years, with analysts blaming the Lakurawa terror group for the deadly violence.

"I came back to have a fuller experience," said Adeniyi Olugbemii, 56, who is attending the festival a second time from neighbouring Sokoto state.

Days of activities preceded the fishing competition, including a motor rally from Nigeria's capital city, Abuja, a Durbar procession, and a variety of cultural events.

Hundreds of much smaller catches ended up at a makeshift market set up on the adjoining streets to the arena.