The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), in collaboration with the Enugu State Government, has announced plans to host the 2026 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) in Enugu from November 21 to 28, 2026.
The eight-day national cultural festival will be held under the theme “Connected Culture” and is expected to bring together cultural delegations from Nigeria’s 36 states.
The Director-General of the NCAC, Obi Asika, disclosed the development in Abuja, saying the festival would provide a platform for cultural exchange, entertainment, learning and national celebration.
According to Asika, the 2026 edition is expected to strengthen national unity by providing opportunities for Nigerians from different cultural backgrounds to interact, showcase their traditions and celebrate the country’s cultural diversity.
He said following the postponement of the 2025 edition, the NCAC and the Enugu State Government had renewed their commitment to delivering a national festival that reflects the evolving cultural identity of Nigeria.
Asika also disclosed that the NCAC is partnering with the British Council and other industry organisations to provide training opportunities within the creative sector as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s cultural heritage and creative economy.
He called on corporate organisations, cultural institutions, media organisations and stakeholders in the creative industry to support and participate in the festival.
Speaking on the state’s readiness to host the event, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, said the state was prepared to welcome participants from across Nigeria and international visitors.
Mbah said NAFEST would provide an opportunity to showcase Enugu’s cultural heritage, hospitality and ongoing transformation, while positioning the state as a destination for culture, tourism, investment and creativity.
The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Ugochi Madueke, also expressed the state’s readiness to welcome artists, cultural delegations and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond.
She said the festival would offer Enugu an opportunity to showcase its cultural attractions, hospitality and creative potential to a wider audience.
The 2026 NAFEST is expected to feature cultural performances, artistic competitions, exhibitions, creative-industry activities and other programmes designed to promote cultural exchange and national cohesion.
By Enitan Mudashiru | MUK TV News
