Convener promises cultural fireworks as masquerades, dances, cuisines, and fashion take centre stage.
By Emmanuel Ukpong
All is set for what has been described as a cultural explosion. Solemn Sounds and SO Entertainment, in collaboration with UNTLD 360 Management, prepare to host the Ibom Cultural Festival in Lagos. The event, billed for Saturday, September 20, 2025, at the Union Bank Stable, Bode Thomas, Surulere, will showcase the vibrant cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking at a pre-event press briefing at Protea Hotel, Ikeja, convener Mr. Sunday Okpo said the festival would feature thrilling cultural displays such as Ekpo masquerades, Ekpe and Utu Ekpe dances, Asian Uboikpa, traditional cuisines, artefacts, and exhibitions of entrepreneurial creativity.
“As a young boy growing up in Lagos, I was always fascinated by the rhythm and drumbeats from our cultural dances. I have always cherished the need to showcase this culture to Akwa Ibomites in the diaspora, so they can fully imbibe and appreciate their roots,” Okpo explained.
Over 3,000 people have already indicated interest in attending the event, while no fewer than 66 entrepreneurs will display locally made fabrics, beads, shoes, hats, bangles, and
Other accessories are rooted in Akwa Ibom tradition.
Okpo stressed that the festival would serve as more than just a cultural display.
“This will be a marketplace where entrepreneurs can network with visitors, guests, and potential buyers. Beyond that, it will promote tourism and align with Governor Umoh Enoh’s Arise Agenda, which prioritises showcasing Akwa Ibom’s rich cultural and tourism potential,” he said.
He added that both the people and government of Akwa Ibom State, officials of Lagos State, the Akwa Ibom State Community (AKISCOM), and the leadership of the 31 local government areas in Lagos have expressed readiness to attend.
The convener also acknowledged the support of corporate partners, including Nigerian Breweries, Alliance Française, and Protea Hotel, which hosted the press conference.
Okpo described Akwa Ibom’s culture as “one of the most exploitable in the world,” but lamented that it remains “grossly untapped.” He emphasised the need for indigenes, the government, and lovers of culture to harness and export it.
Event coordinator Mr. Ope Awomolo hailed Okpo as a passionate cultural enthusiast, noting his participation in global cultural festivals such as Felabration, the Irish St. Patrick’s Day, and Alliance Française exhibitions.
Looking beyond Lagos, Okpo disclosed plans to make the festival an annual affair and eventually take it global.
“This is just the beginning. In the future, Ibom Cultural Festival will be hosted in London, France, Germany, and other parts of the world. Our culture deserves global recognition,” he said.
He urged Akwa Ibomites, entrepreneurs, and culture lovers across Lagos to turn out in their numbers.
“We are ready to ignite cultural fireworks that will place Akwa Ibom in global perspective and reckoning,” Okpo declared.