Ejiro Efenudu
The Lagos State Government has officially announced a strategic partnership with the African Cultural Festival (ACF), signaling a major cultural and economic exchange initiative in anticipation of the festival’s 2025 edition. Themed “Africa to the World: Culture, Creativity, and Collaboration,” the event will begin with countdown activities across Lagos in July 2025, culminating in a landmark festival in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, USA, scheduled for September 19–20, 2025.
This collaboration is a significant move by the Lagos State Government to reinforce the state’s position as a global cultural hub, deepen connections with the African diaspora, and unlock new avenues for economic growth through cultural diplomacy and creative enterprise.
Cultural Diplomacy and Economic Diversification
Mr. Idris Aregbe, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tourism, Arts, and Culture, stated that the initiative is strongly aligned with the administration’s THEMES+ agenda, particularly in the areas of economic diversification and cultural diplomacy.
“Our Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, sees the festival as aligned with our administration’s THEMES+ agenda, particularly around economic diversification and cultural diplomacy,” Aregbe said.
He further stressed the broader socio-economic impact of the festival, stating, “While it may appear to be a festival of colours, we see beyond that. We see the opportunities it presents to tell our stories and secure a seat among global cultural hubs. I can assure you that this platform is a catalyst for lasting socio-economic transformation.”
Strengthening Diaspora Participation
A central pillar of the collaboration is diaspora engagement. Aregbe emphasized the importance of involving Africans abroad in reshaping the continent’s future.
“We aim to strengthen diaspora participation, because building the Africa of our dreams demands unity, purpose, and commitment from Africans and all who believe in her future,” he stated.
The Lagos State delegation to the U.S. will include a mix of creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators passionate about culture and its global significance. The government believes that showcasing Lagos’ vibrant creative scene on a global platform like ACF can help attract investment, foster cultural pride, and build long-term global partnerships.
Festival Highlights and Global Participation
The African Cultural Festival 2025 is expected to attract a broad and diverse range of participants, including African and diaspora leaders, U.S. lawmakers, global creatives, and key players from the media, cultural, and business sectors.
Key events and attractions during the festival will include:
Africa Arise Leadership Summit
ACF Marketplace
Taste of Africa – a showcase of African cuisine
African I-D-E-N-T-I-T-Y Exhibition – exploring identity and heritage
NextGen Connect Youth Forum – youth empowerment and networking
African Diaspora Summit
The official launch of Duduplugs, a new innovation hub designed to connect Africa’s creative and economic sectors to global markets
A major cultural highlight will be the “Celebrating African Elders” event, which will honor iconic African figures who have made significant contributions to culture and heritage. Among those to be recognized are Nike Okundaye, founder of Nike Art Gallery, and Miss Phipps, both acknowledged for their preservation of African wisdom and cultural heritage.
Elevating Africa’s Creative Economy
The African Cultural Festival is organized by ACI Entertainment, a company operating in both Lagos and Pennsylvania, with a mission to elevate Africa’s creative economy on the global stage.
This partnership, according to the Lagos State Government, reflects a deep and strategic understanding of culture not just as entertainment, but as a driver of innovation, identity, diplomacy, and economic transformation.
By aligning with ACF, Lagos continues to position itself at the forefront of Africa’s cultural renaissance, offering a platform that amplifies African voices and showcases the continent’s rich creative potential to the world.
