5th Edition of Beeta Arts Festival Returns to Abuja with a Multi-Genre Showcase

Adedayo Akinwale in Abuja

The Beeta Arts Festival (BAF) has announced that the fifth edition is scheduled to hold between December 5th and 7th, 2025 in Abuja.

In a statement issued Thursday by its Founder, Bikiya Graham-Douglas, said this year’s edition themed; “Connected Voices” would take place at the Abuja Continental Hotel.

She noted the event would feature stage plays by dynamic storytellers including, Ivie Okujaiye, Habiba Zock-Sock, Goodness Emmanuel, Ame Aiyejina, Daniel Okosun, Tony Edet (Thin Tall Tony), and Abiodun Kazeem, alongside exciting new emerging voices.

Graham-Douglas: “The Beeta Arts Festival was created to amplify the power of storytelling across Africa and to create pathways for emerging talent.

“This year’s theme, ‘Connected Voices,’ reflects our belief that art not only entertains, but also unites and empowers. We look forward to welcoming artists and audiences to Abuja for an unforgettable celebration of African creativity.”

Graham-Douglas added that Fakunle returns as producer of the theatre segment, bringing his signature depth and excellence to the BAF stage.

She said: “The film programme curated by Mandela Washington Fellow and Filmmaker Priye Diri will showcase compelling work from emerging filmmakers across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Tunisia, Morocco, and Côte d’Ivoire, including alumni from the Multichoice Talent Factory.

“This year, BAF will also introduce the Audience Choice Award for both Film and Theatre, giving festival-goers the opportunity to celebrate and vote for their favourite performances.”

The founder stressed that music and entertainment would feature performances by upcoming artists, with a special guest appearance by rapper and DJ Muna Abi, adding energy and excitement to the festival’s vibrant community.

She noted that the literacy Segment is returning this year with curated conversations by African authors, organised in partnership with Paperworth Books Limited.

“There will also be creative and impactful conversations featuring respected personalities such as Dimbo Atiya, Biodun Stephen, Lyndsey Efejuku, Rahama Sadau, Utee Rone, Prince (Aboki) Daniel, Malik Afegbua and others, exploring trends, opportunities, and insights in the creative industry in collaboration with the UNDP X Jubilee Fellows Program,” she noted.

BAF has grown into a premier platform for theatre, film, music, dance, visual art, and cultural expression.

Since its inception, the festival has welcomed participants from over 13 African countries, nurturing talent and fostering meaningful collaborations across the continent.

BAF 2025 will host Social Impact Dialogues on Gender-Based Violence, in collaboration with UN Women, Dorothy Njemanze Foundation, and National Assembly Library Trust Fund, featuring speakers from Tech Her, Gender Mobile and Dr. Bukky Shonibare of Invictus Africa; the Festival Market & Lifestyle Experiences, in collaboration with UNDP’s #HerAFCFTA programme, will showcase fashion, crafts, books, food, wellness, and cultural activities.