About NAFEST 2025 – All eyes are on Enugu which plays host to NAFEST, National Festival of Arts and Culture. Scheduled for November 22–29, 2025, NAFEST is easily one of Nigeria’s most significant cultural events. Enugu expects to welcome thousands of Nigerians at the week-long celebration, themed “Connected Culture,” Africa’s biggest cultural Olympics.

The organisers view NAFEST as more than a festival. It is a nation-building initiative wrapped in color, rhythm, and tradition. Nigeria continues to grapple with socio-political divides, economic challenges, and youth restlessness. NAFEST offers a rare opportunity to showcase national unity through cultural diversity. In choosing Enugu—an emerging hub of tourism and development—the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), chief promoter of the festival, is sending a clear message: culture is the bridge to national cohesion and economic revitalization.


Why NAFEST Matters—Nationally and Locally

According to NCAC Director-General, Obi Asika, the decision to bring NAFEST to Enugu in 2025 is deeply personal and strategic. “I am delighted to be back in Enugu, or 042 as we know it,” he said. “I grew up here and carry Enugu in my heart everywhere I go.”

Asika praised Governor Peter Mbah and his administration for their commitment to transforming Enugu into a modern destination. “We’ve been watching the incredible work His Excellency has been doing. With over 5,000 competitors expected from across the country, we’re confident Enugu will provide a safe, secure, and exhilarating experience.”

Governor Mbah, on his part, sees NAFEST as a validation of his administration’s agenda. “Enugu is ready,” he said. “We are investing in both soft and hard infrastructure to unlock our full potential. Enugu Air launches this month (already launched), and we’re revitalizing heritage sites like Awhum Waterfalls and the Ngwo Pine Forest zipline—the first in Nigeria.”

Enugu’s ambitious plan to attract 3 million annual visitors is possible with a focus on improving services in the state’s over 300 hotels, with newly developed tourism assets poised to deliver a world-class cultural showcase.


A Festival Like No Other

Often dubbed “Nigeria’s Cultural Olympics,” NAFEST will bring together the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in a non-stop celebration of music, dance, fashion, drama, cuisine, crafts, and traditional sports. The iconic Okpara Square will serve as the primary venue for the opening and closing ceremonies, with concerts from top artists already in the pipeline.

Other venues like the International Conference Centre will host key competitive events including:

  • Swag Show
  • Dance Off Naija
  • Sing Off Naija
  • Naija Home Makeover
  • Jollof Wars
  • The NAFEST Colloquium

The Children’s Cultural Fiesta, traditional wrestling, Dambe boxing, and the Ayo game will ensure there’s something for every demographic. Art exhibitions, film screenings, and creative workshops will pop up across the city, highlighting both Enugu’s and Nigeria’s creative industries.

To nurture the next generation of cultural ambassadors, NCAC will host capacity-building workshops through initiatives like CLAP and ICE, targeting young talents in Enugu.


A Showcase of Culture, A Statement of Unity

More than a festival, NAFEST 2025 will be a cultural and political statement. At a time when the country is in need of healing, shared experiences, and mutual understanding, this festival reminds us of the strength in our diversity.

Enugu—rich in hills, intellect (home to over 27 tertiary institutions), and warm hospitality—embodies the spirit of this year’s theme: Connected Culture. It’s a city where tradition meets innovation, and residents welcome visitors like family.

So, whether you’re a cultural enthusiast, a tourist looking to explore southeastern Nigeria, or just someone in search of meaning in modern Nigeria, NAFEST 2025 is calling.

What People Are Saying

The announcement of Enugu as host city has already sparked excitement across the country and beyond.

Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, expressed her full support. “I lighted up the Christmas lights last year (December 2024) in Enugu and it’s clear the Governor has a vision. I will certainly be there to enjoy what will undoubtedly be a most remarkable NAFEST.”

Online, Enugu residents and cultural enthusiasts have taken to social media using hashtags like #NAFEST2025 and #ConnectedCulture, anticipating everything from the traditional masquerade parades to culinary battles like Jollof Wars, which will certainly stoke friendly rivalries among states.

For local businesses, the festival is another golden opportunity. From hotels and restaurants to transport services and craft markets, the inflow of thousands of visitors will boost Enugu’s local economy and create jobs—temporarily and potentially permanently.


Come to Enugu.

Come celebrate Connected Culture.
Be a part of history.


#NAFEST2025 #ConnectedCulture #EnuguNAFEST #CoalCityVibes #NigeriaCulturalOlympics

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