With just days to the commencement of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) 2025, Enugu State has reaffirmed its readiness to host what is expected to be one of the most memorable editions of the annual cultural celebration scheduled for November 22–29.
The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Obi Asika, announced that Enugu, popularly known as the Coal City, is fully prepared to welcome delegates, performers, tourists, and culture enthusiasts from across Nigeria.
Asika praised Governor Peter Mbah for his exceptional leadership and commitment in ensuring a seamless festival experience. He noted that the Governor’s proactive approach has strengthened logistics, hospitality, and security arrangements. He also commended the Local Organising Committee led by the Honourable Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Dame Ugochi Madueke, describing the team as pivotal to the festival’s strong coordination.
According to the DG, over 26 states and the Federal Capital Territory have already confirmed participation, with more expected to join, potentially surpassing last year’s record turnout. He explained that NAFEST has evolved into a major platform for cultural diplomacy, creative economy expansion, and tourism promotion.
He highlighted that the Culture and Creative Economy Pre-Summit held earlier in Enugu helped build nationwide excitement by bringing together culture commissioners, creative industry leaders, and private sector stakeholders.
Asika assured that Enugu’s reputation for orderliness and hospitality makes it an ideal host city. Visitors, he said, can expect upgraded venues, high-quality infrastructure, and smooth logistics that allow full focus on cultural performances.
States across the federation are intensifying preparations, improving choreography, refining costumes, and integrating young creatives into their presentations. Asika described the festival as a convergence of tradition and innovation, with showcases expected to span music, dance, drama, culinary arts, and fashion.
He emphasised the economic benefits of NAFEST, noting that hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and artisans will experience increased patronage. Security measures, hospitality services, and transportation plans have been enhanced to ensure a safe and welcoming environment.
Expressing optimism, Asika said NAFEST 2025 will stand out as a defining moment in Nigeria’s cultural evolution:
“Heritage meets innovation; unity meets diversity. Enugu 2025 will be unforgettable.”
Enugu State Commissioner for Arts and Culture, Dame Ugochi Madueke, also affirmed the state's preparedness, stating that every detail from logistics to security has been planned with precision. She assured that Enugu is ready to welcome the country with warmth and excellence as the Coal City hosts Nigeria’s cultural showcase of the year.
