After months of intensive preparations, Enugu State is ready to showcase its offerings for the 2025 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), scheduled to run from November 22 to November 29. The state has finalized all logistics, security arrangements, and programming details to ensure a seamless cultural experience for participants and visitors alike.
Historic Durbar Makes Southeastern Debut
One of the most groundbreaking features of NAFEST 2025 is the historic inclusion of the Northern Durbar in Southeast Nigeria for the first time. Katsina State has partnered with Enugu to present this iconic parade featuring spectacular horsemanship, elaborate traditional regalia, and vibrant musical performances during the festival's opening ceremony.
Obi Asika, the Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), emphasized the symbolic importance of this cultural exchange. "The Durbar's debut in the South represents a powerful statement about national integration and interregional cooperation. It shows that our cultural heritage can bridge geographical divides and unite all Nigerians," Asika stated.
Creative Economy Takes Center Stage
Beyond traditional celebrations, NAFEST 2025 places significant emphasis on developing Nigeria's creative economy. The festival will host the Creative Hustle series, a comprehensive three-day capacity-building program developed in collaboration with the British Council and the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival.
"These workshops are strategically designed to empower emerging talents across film, fashion, and music industries. Participants will receive mentorship, networking opportunities, and practical training that can transform cultural expression into sustainable economic ventures," Asika explained.
The festival will also feature enhanced versions of popular competitions including:
- The Swag Show
- Dance Off and Sing Off Naija
- Jollof Wars
- Naija Home Makeover
These events have been scaled up with improved production quality, expanded participation opportunities, and live digital engagement through various streaming platforms.
Comprehensive Cultural Programming
NAFEST 2025 will feature more than 15 competitive categories spanning traditional music and dance, drama, indigenous cuisine, crafts, fashion, and language preservation. The festival will also include cultural parades, opening and closing ceremonies, and intellectual forums such as the NAFEST Colloquium organized with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF).
Private sector engagement marks another significant aspect of this year's edition. Numerous sponsors, development agencies, and youth-driven creative organizations have partnered with the festival to expand its reach and impact. Enugu's vibrant creative ecosystem—encompassing film, fashion, and music sectors—will converge throughout the week, creating a dynamic environment where traditional arts intersect with modern business opportunities.
"Our collaboration with private sector stakeholders ensures that the festival delivers not only cultural enrichment but also economic significance for participants and the host community," the DG remarked.
Enugu's renowned hospitality and cultural heritage will further enhance the festival experience. Visitors can expect immersive music and dance performances, artisanal craft displays, culinary showcases, and interactive workshops. Local hotels, restaurants, and transportation providers have been prepared to offer seamless services, allowing delegates and tourists to fully experience the warmth and charm of the Coal City.
Ugochi Madueke, Enugu State's Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, highlighted the innovative spirit driving NAFEST 2025. "Innovation defines this year's festival. From the historic Durbar presentation to expanded competitions and creative industry capacity-building initiatives, this edition will establish new standards for cultural festivals across Nigeria. Enugu stands ready to deliver an unforgettable experience," Madueke affirmed.
With participation confirmed from over 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory, organizers anticipate record-breaking attendance and engagement levels, positioning this year's NAFEST as a landmark event in Nigeria's cultural calendar.
