November 16, (THEWILL) — Enugu State’s 2025 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) is set to redefine national cultural festivals in Nigeria.
Organisers highlight the historic inclusion of the Northern Durbar in the Southeast for the first time, positioning the festival as a landmark celebration of unity, diversity, and cross-regional collaboration.
The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Obi Asika, revealed that this year’s NAFEST will run from November 22 to 29, 2025.
Speaking in an exclusive interview, Asika described the festival as an unparalleled opportunity to celebrate Nigeria’s cultural wealth while creating pathways for youth empowerment and creative industry development.
“For the first time ever, the historic Durbar will be held in the Southeast—a profound symbol of unity in diversity. We are grateful to the Governor of Katsina State for making it possible for a fully dressed Durbar to grace the opening ceremony, saluting the VIPs, and welcoming guests to Enugu. Over 50 horses will participate, bringing the pageantry, music, and traditional regalia of northern royalty to the Southeast for the very first time”, Asika said.
He likened the spectacle to the Ojude Oba festival in the Southwest and the Ofala festival in Onitsha, Southeast, highlighting its significance as a cultural bridge that unites different parts of the country.
According to Asika, the theme for NAFEST 2025, “Connected Culture”, underscores the festival’s mission of fostering national cohesion through shared cultural heritage.
“NAFEST is no longer just a festival; it is a national platform that connects states, communities, and creatives across Nigeria. With Enugu’s vibrant cultural energy and rich history, visitors will be immersed in the warmth, hospitality, and artistic excellence of the Coal City”, he added.
NAFEST 2025 will feature over 15 competitive categories, including traditional music and dance, drama, indigenous cuisine, crafts, language, and fashion.
Major highlights include the grand opening and closing ceremonies, the Cultural Parade of States, Jollof Wars—a rebranded culinary competition, The Swag Show for fashion, Dance Off and Sing Off Naija for music and dance contests, and Naija Home Makeover. The festival will also host Creative Hustle, a three-day capacity-building programme for emerging filmmakers, fashion designers, and music professionals, developed in partnership with the British Council and the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival.
“Aside from competition, these initiatives provide mentorship, networking, and skills development for young creatives, enabling them to transform talent into viable economic opportunities”, Asika said.
He noted that NAFEST also includes the NAFEST Colloquium, organised in partnership with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), exploring the intersections of culture, tourism, entertainment, and sustainability.
The DG emphasised that private sector participation has been instrumental in elevating this year’s festival. Corporate sponsors, development partners, and youth-focused creative organisations have come on board to ensure high-quality production, wider audience engagement, and improved digital coverage. Live streaming, influencer collaborations, and social media initiatives will allow audiences nationwide to experience the festival in real time.
Security and logistical arrangements have been prioritised by the Enugu State Government, which has activated a multi-layered security framework involving the Police, DSS, Civil Defence, military formations, and community policing units. Digital surveillance, controlled access points, and community engagement measures aim to guarantee the safety of all participants, guests, and residents during the week-long festivities.
“The combination of inter-regional cultural collaboration, immersive festival experiences, and robust professional management ensures that NAFEST 2025 will leave a lasting impression on visitors. This festival is a testament to the richness of Nigerian culture and the possibilities when tradition meets innovation”, Asika stated.
Organisers are confident that NAFEST 2025 will set a new standard for national cultural festivals. By integrating the historic Durbar, contemporary creative showcases, interactive workshops, and culinary and fashion competitions, the festival promises to deliver entertainment, education, and inspiration. “Enugu 2025 will not just entertain; it will unite, educate, and celebrate the creative spirit of Nigeria”, Asika concluded.
Janefrances Ebere Chibuzor is a Tourism Writer at THEWILL
