In a rare show of national sensitivity, the Federal Government has stepped back from the much-anticipated 2025 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), postponing the event originally slated to open on November 21 in Enugu State.
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy said the decision was driven by the sombre mood across the country following recent insecurity incidents that have left families grieving and communities shaken.
Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Dr Nneka Ikem Anibeze in a statement indicated that Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa, after wide consultations, agreed that pressing ahead with a celebratory national festival at a time of collective mourning would be inappropriate.
The statement explained that for decades, NAFEST has been a unifying cultural stage—one that projects Nigeria’s strength, resilience, and diversity to the world adding 2025 was no different: with over 28 states already in Enugu, preparations were in full swing, and expectations were high.
But the Ministry the statement noted respect for human life outweighs fanfare.
The postponement, it said, aligns with the nation’s values of empathy, unity, and responsible leadership.
A new date will be announced after further consultations with states, cultural institutions, and security agencies to ensure the festival holds under safer and more befitting conditions.
The Ministry expressed gratitude to cultural troupes, participating states, partners, and the public for their understanding, promising that when NAFEST eventually holds, it will be even stronger and more unifying.