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    Afronation Lagos Edition Cancelled

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    The highly-anticipated afrobeats festival, Afronation, will no longer make its debut in Nigeria next month.

    The popular music festival franchise, which was set to hold its inaugural edition in Lagos in December has been cancelled.

    Organisers of the festival, in a statement released during the week via social media, expressed their disappointment over a unanimous decision to cancel the Afrobeats festival.

    According to them, the reason behind the shocking decision is because it is “currently not possible to deliver a show that is of the quality that Nigerian deserves”.

    This is coming a few days after a delegation from Afronation Nigeria led by its country director, Idris Olorunibe, had paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts & Culture ahead of the show.

     

     

    The government had pledged to partner the organisation to host the festival.

    AfroNation is a renowned global festival celebrating the vibrant and dynamic Afrobeats music genre. The festival has been held in various eventually such as Portugal, Ghana, Miami, and Detriot. However this would have been its first showcase in Lagos, Nigeria. The now-cancelled event promised a two-day spectacular array of musical performances by Burna Boy, J Hus, Seyi Vibez and Black Sherif.

    The statement from the event organizers stated that: “Unfortunately the Afro Nation Nigeria festival in Lagos will now not be taking place. As event organisers, we hold ourselves to extremely high standards and it has become clear to us that it is currently not possible to deliver a show that is of the quality that Nigeria deserves in December 2023.

    “We are honoured to play our part in the Afrobeats community, providing a platform for artists to connect with fans and to create events that have such a positive impact on the culture, globally, as well as launching the Afrobeats chart in the US and the UK. We have put on incredible shows in Portugal, Ghana, Puerto Rico, Miami, and Detroit but Nigeria holds a special place in our hearts, so we are heartbroken not to be able to celebrate with you this year.

     

    “Please know, we are 100% committed to creating an Afro Nation show in Lagos that we can all be proud of.

    “We know that you are as disappointed as we are and to all those who have purchased tickets, we love you and thank you for supporting us on this journey.

    “We will refund all tickets including booking fees. Ticket buyers do not need to do anything but will receive an email with information outlining the refund process.”

    The organisers of the showcase have promised to refund all those who have previously purchased tickets. The team promised to continue to create an Afronation in Lagos.

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    Ogun State gears up for historic 2024 national sports festival

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    2024 National Sports Festival Ogun

    Ogun State is set to host the 2024 National Sports Festival, with Premium Trust Bank as lead sponsor, promising a world-class sporting event

     

    The **Federal Government** has commended **Ogun State** for its dedication to hosting a **world-class National Sports Festival (NSF)** as preparations for the **Gateway Games 2024** reach advanced stages.

    Also read: Ogun State to boost tourism through cultural networking and Adire fabric revitalisation

    On **Wednesday in Abeokuta**, the **Local Organising Committee (LOC)**, backed by the **National Sports Commission (NSC)**, officially unveiled **Premium Trust Bank** as the **lead sponsor** of the event in a **record-breaking sponsorship deal**.

    Chairman of the **NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko**, praised Ogun State’s **exceptional commitment** to organising a **seamless and memorable** festival. He also highlighted the **crucial role of corporate sponsorships** in shaping the future of Nigerian sports.

    “The unveiling of Premium Trust Bank as the lead sponsor for the **2024 National Sports Festival** is a testament to the rising confidence of the **private sector** in Nigerian sports. Ogun State has demonstrated an extraordinary level of commitment, and this partnership is a step toward elevating the festival to **exceptional standards**,” Dikko said.

    Beyond the competition, Dikko emphasised the **festival’s impact** on **tourism, job creation, and economic growth** in Ogun State.

    “The **Gateway Games 2024** will not only showcase **athletic excellence** but will also **boost local businesses**, create **employment opportunities**, and promote Ogun State as a hub for **sports and economic development**,” he added.

    The **National Sports Festival**, often referred to as the **Nigerian Olympics**, is owned by the **NSC** and will feature **over 20,000 participants** from **36 states and the FCT**, with the introduction of **Invited Junior Athletes (IJA)** as the **38th state**.

    Scheduled to run from **16 to 30 May 2025**, the festival is set to be **one of the largest sporting events in Nigeria’s history**.

    “This festival is more than just a sporting event; it is a **celebration of talent, resilience, and the boundless potential of Nigerian sports**. With Ogun State’s level of preparation and the commitment of all stakeholders, I have no doubt that **Gateway Games 2024** will be the most remarkable edition yet,” Dikko stated.

    The **NSC** has reaffirmed its **full support** for Ogun State, ensuring that all **necessary resources and enablers** are in place for a **successful and historic** event.

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    Phynofest returns to Enugu: Phyno announces grand comeback of iconic concert

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    Phynofest 2025

    Phyno announces the return of Phynofest to Enugu in 2025, promising a bigger and better experience for fans. Get ready for an unforgettable celebration

     

    Phyno, the Nigerian rapper and music legend, has officially revealed that his highly anticipated annual concert, *Phynofest*, will be making a spectacular return to Enugu in 2025.

    Also read: Enugu to host 23rd national sports festival in 2026

    After a brief hiatus, the event, renowned for selling out in previous editions, is set to make a grand comeback, thrilling fans with a bigger and better show than ever before.

    Taking to social media to share the exciting news, Phyno expressed his excitement and anticipation for the event. He wrote, “Enugu, it’s about to be lit again! Phynofest is back, and this year we’re going bigger and better. You all have been asking for it, and now it’s time to make history again.”

    The popular rapper, whose real name is Chibuzor Nelson Azubuike, also shared that part of his visit to the state would involve discussions with the governor regarding plans for the November 2025 concert.

    Emphasising the importance of government support, Phyno noted that it would be crucial in ensuring the event’s success and boosting tourism in the state.

    Since its inception, Phynofest has become one of Nigeria’s most celebrated and iconic music festivals. Known for its electrifying performances, star-studded lineups, and thrilling atmosphere, Phynofest attracts thousands of fans to Enugu, the Coal City.

    The concert has previously featured some of Nigeria’s biggest music stars, including Olamide, Flavour, and Zoro, making it an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

    Phyno’s loyal fanbase, particularly in the Eastern region, eagerly awaits the event each year, and this year’s return has sparked widespread excitement.

    Fans have already begun speculating about potential guest appearances and surprises, with many commenting online about the anticipation. One fan expressed on Instagram, “We’ve missed this! Phynofest always brings the whole state together.”

    Phyno, known for his distinctive blend of rap and indigenous Igbo sounds, continues to shape the Nigerian music landscape.

    His influence spans beyond the music scene, with his cultural contributions making him a significant figure in the Eastern part of Nigeria and throughout the country.

    Phynofest has become a symbol of this cultural impact, drawing attention to the state of Enugu while providing an unparalleled platform for music lovers to celebrate Nigerian talent.

    Though the official venue for the 2025 Phynofest is yet to be revealed, Phyno reassured fans that further announcements would follow soon, leaving fans eagerly anticipating the next big update.

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    Katsina State to host 2025 ECOWAS food, cultural festival

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    2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival

    Katsina State will host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, promoting African cultural values, food security, and regional development

     

    Katsina State, in Nigeria’s North West, has been chosen to host the 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, themed *“African Cultural Values and Food Security for Peace and Development.”*

    Also read: Detty December in Lagos boosts economy, tourism, entertainment

    This prestigious event aims to unite key stakeholders to address security challenges affecting farming and agriculture across Nigeria and the broader West African region.

    The announcement was made by Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda.

    Scheduled for 2025, the festival will spotlight Katsina as a hub for cultural heritage, agricultural innovation, and economic development.

    Governor Radda stated that the festival would emphasise African cultural values while advancing food security, peace, and development across the ECOWAS region.

    It is expected to attract local and international investors in agriculture, boosting economic opportunities in Katsina State.

    The festival will also create a ripple effect across multiple industries, including event management, tourism, logistics, and local markets. These opportunities will benefit the state’s youth, artisans, and small businesses.

    Dr. Kabir Ali Masanawa, Executive Director/CEO of the Katsina State History and Culture Bureau, highlighted the festival’s potential to stimulate demand for hospitality services, food, and transportation.

    The influx of visitors will boost the local economy while showcasing Katsina’s rich cultural heritage.

    Ambassador Prince Felix Ihonre, Director-General of the ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival, commended Governor Radda for his warm reception and unwavering support, describing the upcoming festival as a landmark event for the region.

    The 2025 ECOWAS Food and Cultural Festival is expected to be a transformative event, reinforcing Katsina State’s role as a cultural and agricultural leader in West Africa.

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