2025 was a landmark year for Nigerian events. Throughout the calendar, the nation hosted a powerful blend of cultural celebrations, industry conferences, entertainment showcases, and entrepreneurial gatherings. These events not only brought people together but also elevated Nigeria’s creative and economic footprint within Africa and beyond. This recap highlights the top events that defined the year and explains why they stood out.

Nigerian International Airshow, Abuja

For decades, aviation gatherings in Nigeria focused on conferences and local showcases, but in 2025 the Nigeria International Airshow took flight as Nigeria hosted its first global airshow event. Convened by the Federal Ministry of Aviation and Aerospace Development in collaboration with the Nigerian Air Force, this three‑day showcase in Abuja provided a rare look into aviation technology, aerospace developments, and industry partnerships. Featuring international exhibitors, aircraft displays, and high‑level discussions, the event aimed to position Nigeria as a key aviation hub in Africa and to attract global investment into the sector.

Entertainment Week Africa (EWA), Lagos

Entertainment Week Africa, formerly known as Entertainment Week Lagos, cemented its reputation in 2025 as one of the continent’s most ambitious creative summits. Organized to bridge gaps between talent, investment, and opportunity, the event featured panels, workshops, film screenings, fashion showcases, and music performances. With more than 150 speakers and participants from over 50 sectors, EWA put Nigerian creativity on a global stage and facilitated meaningful industry connections across film, music, tech, and fashion.

New Media Conference

The 2025 New Media Conference remained a must‑attend for digital creators, media professionals, and marketers. Convened by Oluwatosin “OloriSuperGal” Ajibade, founder of OloriSuperGal.com, the event brought together thought leaders, content creators, and innovators to discuss trends in social media, digital storytelling, and content monetization. By bringing together thought leaders and practitioners, the conference reinforced Nigeria’s position as a digital media powerhouse with influence spanning across Africa.

Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF)

In 2025, AFRIFF continued its legacy as one of Africa’s most influential film festivals. Filmmakers, actors, and industry stakeholders gathered for premieres, panel discussions, and workshops designed to build distribution opportunities and creative collaborations. With a focus on storytelling that reflects African life and culture, the festival once again served as a critical platform for Nigerian and African cinema.

NECLive Festival

The Neclive Festival in 2025 offered another vibrant chapter in Nigeria’s live entertainment calendar. The music and lifestyle festival showcased performances from top Nigerian artists and rising stars, creating unforgettable moments and drawing crowds of passionate fans. With experiential spaces, creative talks, and entertainment industry discussions, it helped energize local music culture.

Ofada Rice Day Festival

The Ofada Rice Day Festival returned in 2025 as a celebration of Nigerian food culture and agricultural pride. Taking place with cooking competitions, tastings, cultural performances, and community gatherings, the festival spotlighted Ofada rice as a symbol of culinary heritage and food entrepreneurship. Chefs, producers, and food lovers converged to celebrate local flavors and boost awareness of sustainable agricultural practices.

Firewood Jollof Festival

Nigeria’s beloved Jollof rice took center stage at the Jollof Festival in 2025, where food lovers and chefs competed to create the most celebrated version of this iconic dish. The festival drew West African participants and international guests, turning culinary rivalry into celebration. With live music, cultural showcases, and social media buzz, the Jollof Festival became one of Nigeria’s most talked‑about food experiences of the year.

Iconic Fest

Iconic Fest 2025 stood out as a cultural experience fusing music, fashion, and lifestyle in dynamic celebration. Featuring performances from top Nigerian entertainers, runway showcases by emerging designers, and interactive creative experiences, the event attracted crowds seeking both entertainment and cultural inspiration.

Detty December Festival

As the year wound down, the Detty December Festival delivered on its reputation as the ultimate festivity season event. Known for its mix of concerts, beach parties, and holiday celebrations, 2025’s edition drew locals and international visitors seeking an unforgettable year‑end experience. From Lagos nightlife to coastal celebrations, Detty December kept the festive energy high throughout the holiday season.

African Creative Market

The African Creative Market in 2025 became the go‑to space for artisans, fashion designers, digital creators, and craftsmen to showcase their work. The event brought buyers, collaborators, and investors together, reinforcing the economic potential of Nigeria’s creative sectors. For many participants, the market offered new connections, business opportunities, and visibility that extended well beyond the festival footprint.

WIMBIZ Annual Conference, Lagos

The WIMBIZ (Women in Management, Business & Public Service) Annual Conference returned in 2025 as one of Nigeria’s most prominent platforms for women’s professional empowerment. Organized by the non‑profit WIMBIZ organization, the conference hosted over 50 thought leaders and featured sessions on leadership, entrepreneurship, and career advancement. By connecting women from business, corporate, and public service sectors, WIMBIZ continued to shape conversations on gender inclusion and professional development across industries.