FG Postpones NAFEST 2025

Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja

The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has announced the postponement of the 2025 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), earlier scheduled to commence on Saturday, 22nd November 2025 in Enugu State.
A statement Friday by the SA Media & Publicity Office of the Minister

Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Nneka Anichebe, said the decision was made after a careful assessment of the national mood and the recent insecurity across different parts of the country.
She said the in solidarity with the affected families and communities, and out of deep respect for the lives lost, the Minister, Hannatu Musa Musawa, after consulting with stakeholders, approved the postponement of the festival to a later date.
“NAFEST has always played a powerful role in nation-building. It brings Nigerians together, strengthens social cohesion, and offers a platform for cultural diplomacy and soft power.

“In fact, NAFEST remains one of the rare national events capable of projecting a different and more accurate picture of Nigeria—a picture of unity, inclusiveness, hospitality, and national confidence,” the statement said.
With over 28 states already present in Enugu preparing for the festival, this year’s edition was poised to send a strong message that the country is open, resilient, and united.

“However, given the current national mood, the Federal Government believes it is more respectful and responsible to postpone the festival rather than proceed at a time when many citizens are grieving.
“The decision reflects our values of empathy, national unity, and collective sensitivity. A new date for NAFEST 2025 will be announced after further consultations with state governments, cultural institutions, and security agencies to ensure that when the festival holds, it does so in an atmosphere befitting the spirit of national celebration,” it added.

The Ministry sought the understanding and support of participating states, cultural troupes, partners, and the Nigerian public, stating its commitment to showcasing Nigeria’s rich cultural diversity remained unwavering.
It said it looked forward to delivering an even stronger and more unifying NAFEST at the appropriate time.