By Emmanuel Ukpong
The rich culture of Akwa Ibom State will take centre stage in Lagos as Solemn Sounds and S.O. Entertainment, in collaboration with UNLTD 360 Management, gear up for the maiden edition of the Ibom Festival.
The two-day cultural celebration, scheduled for September 20 and 21, 2025 at The Stable, Union Bank Sports Centre, Surulere, and Alliance Française, Ikoyi, will feature traditional dances, masquerades, cuisines, fashion, music and trade exhibitions.
Speaking on the vision behind the festival, Mr. Sunday Okpo, CEO of Solemn Sounds and S.O. Entertainment, said the event will promote Akwa Ibom’s heritage while also boosting economic opportunities for small businesses.
“Our culture is one of the richest in Nigeria, yet many of our people in the diaspora do not fully know or appreciate it,” Okpo said. “This festival will help them reconnect with home, understand who they are, and be proud of our traditions, attires, music, talents, and hospitality.”
He explained that exhibition stands for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) will be provided free of charge upon registration at https://www.ibomfestivallagos.com/ in order to support entrepreneurs and catalyze growth.
“The festival is multidimensional. Beyond showcasing Ekpo masquerades, Asian Uboikpa dance, Utu Ekpe and other colourful performances, we want to empower small businesses making local attires, beads, shoes, caps and artifacts,” he said.
Okpo added that the Ibom Festival will become an annual event and would, in future, be replicated in the United States, Britain, Canada, and Germany to further strengthen Akwa Ibom’s cultural and economic diplomacy.
“I want Akwa Ibom people everywhere to eat, wear, speak and proudly exhibit our culture,” he urged. “Our identity deserves global recognition, and this festival is one way to achieve that.”
Government officials, members of the diplomatic community, corporate organisations and Akwa Ibom indigenes at home and abroad are expected to attend the event.