By Janefrances Chibuzor
Enugu State is set to host one of the most culturally dynamic editions of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) from 22 to 29 November 2025, promising a celebration that embodies Nigeria’s unity in diversity. The theme for this year, “Connected Culture”, highlights the festival’s focus on fostering national cohesion through the country’s rich artistic expressions. Organisers are leaving no stone unturned to ensure the event is memorable for participants, visitors, and cultural enthusiasts alike.
A defining feature of NAFEST 2025 will be the historic inclusion of the Northern Durbar in the Southeast for the very first time. Thanks to the gracious support of the Governor of Katsina State, a fully dressed ceremonial Durbar will grace the festival’s opening ceremony. This historic event will see over 50 horses and their riders perform elaborate salutes, paying homage to Enugu State and VIPs in attendance. The Durbar, a traditional celebration where kings and emirs are honoured by their people, bears similarity to the Ojude Oba festival in the Southwest and the Ofala festival in Onitsha, Southeast. Organisers describe its presence at NAFEST 2025 as a symbolic celebration of national unity and inter-regional cultural appreciation.
The inclusion of the Durbar adds a spectacular dimension to the festival, showcasing the grandeur of northern royal traditions against the backdrop of Enugu’s rich cultural heritage. “This edition of NAFEST is about connecting cultures and celebrating our shared values,” said Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), in an exclusive interview. “The Durbar will not only entertain but also educate audiences about Nigeria’s diverse cultural tapestry, highlighting the importance of cross-cultural appreciation and collaboration.”
Beyond the Durbar, NAFEST 2025 will feature a range of events designed to showcase Enugu’s distinct cultural identity and hospitality. Visitors will experience the warmth and creativity of the Coal City through music, dance, crafts, cuisine, and fashion. Over 15 competitive categories will take place, spanning traditional music and dance, drama, indigenous cuisine, crafts, fashion, and language. Signature events such as the Cultural Parade of States, Jollof Wars, The Swag Show, Dance Off, Sing Off Naija, and Naija Home Makeover will provide both entertainment and engagement, drawing participants and audiences from across the country.
Enugu’s hospitality is central to the festival experience. Hotels, restaurants, and transport operators have been sensitised and equipped to ensure smooth accommodation, dining, and mobility for visitors. Guided tours, interactive cultural presentations, and curated performances will immerse guests in the city’s heritage and emerging creative industries. Organisers emphasise that NAFEST 2025 is designed not only as a cultural celebration but also as a platform for fostering tourism and positioning Enugu as a centre of creative excellence.
The festival will also integrate capacity-building initiatives, with the Creative Hustle workshops, hosted in partnership with the British Council and the Eastern Nigeria International Film Festival. These three-day sessions will provide mentorship, practical training, and professional exposure for emerging filmmakers, fashion designers, and music professionals. By combining traditional arts with contemporary creative practices, NAFEST aims to empower young talents and position culture as a driver of economic growth.
“The synergy between Enugu’s vibrant local culture and contributions from other regions, exemplified by the Katsina Durbar, makes this festival unique,” said Asika. “It reflects our commitment to celebrating diversity while promoting national unity. Attendees will not only witness performances but will also engage with Nigeria’s living heritage in an immersive and participatory way.”
Additionally, NAFEST 2025 will feature the NAFEST Colloquium with the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and the Nigerian Conservation Foundation (NCF), exploring the intersections of culture, entertainment, and sustainability. Digital participation, livestreams, and influencer collaborations are being deployed to ensure wider audience engagement and inclusivity.
Organisers express confidence that the festival will leave a lasting impression on visitors, participants, and cultural stakeholders. “We are creating a platform where tradition meets innovation,” Asika added. “From the ceremonial Durbar to the Creative Hustle workshops, from cultural parades to culinary and fashion showcases, every element of NAFEST 2025 is designed to celebrate the richness of Nigerian culture, highlight the hospitality of Enugu, and promote creative collaboration across regions.”
With its historic Durbar, immersive cultural programming, and focus on connected culture, NAFEST 2025 promises to set a new benchmark for national cultural festivals, affirming Enugu’s status as a leading hub for arts, creativity, and cultural diplomacy in Nigeria.
