Organisers have officially revealed plans for the 2025 Eko Fiesta, a major three-day event designed to position Lagos as a premier African centre for tourism, arts, and business investment.
More Than a Celebration: A Platform for Economic Opportunity
The convener, Dr. Wale Oyebanji, who is also a Partner at Dosh and Wales Group, presented the vision at a press briefing. He stated that the fiesta, scheduled for December 22 to 24, 2025, at Muri-Okunola Park on Victoria Island, is a deliberate initiative to fuse celebration with tangible economic prospects.
"Eko Fiesta is an idea and a vision," Oyebanji explained. "The vision is to create a vibrant, inclusive hub where celebration meets commerce, a place that truly reflects the spirit of Lagos while supporting local talent and enterprise."
He noted that the concept was born from the challenges faced by Nigerians in the diaspora and other visitors during the popular 'Detty December' period. Many return seeking a consolidated space for authentic culture, shopping, entertainment, and networking, which the fiesta aims to provide.
Driving SME Growth and Youth Empowerment
A core objective is to connect small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) directly with a diverse consumer base. This initiative is designed to stimulate local trade and promote Nigerian-made products on a significant platform.
Ayodele Olojede, Divisional Head of Retail and SMEs at Wema Bank Plc, emphasised the bank's participation, linking it to their focus on impact and sustainable economic growth. "Getting involved in an initiative like this is first and foremost about impact," Olojede said. She highlighted that events like Eko Fiesta help solve a critical SME challenge: access to markets. Wema Bank has already supported approximately 3,000 vendors in connecting with buyers, making this partnership a strategic fit.
The event also promises to spotlight the creativity of young Lagosians globally, offering networking and mentorship for young professionals and entrepreneurs. It will serve as a civic engagement platform between regulatory bodies, youths, and the diaspora community.
Government Backing and Creative Excitement
Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, reaffirmed the state's commitment to empowering youth through creative and cultural projects. He assured stakeholders of the government's continued annual support for Eko Fiesta.
Among the excited participants is young fashion entrepreneur Miss Tosky Opeifa. She expressed enthusiasm about blending European influences with local fabrics at the event to demonstrate the richness and versatility of Nigerian materials to a wide audience.
Ultimately, the 2025 Eko Fiesta is positioned not just as an entertainment spectacle, but as a strategic economic and cultural exhibition to cement Lagos's status as Africa's leading destination for tourism, arts, business, and investment.
