Uyo, Nigeria
The maiden Niger Delta Festival of Arts and Culture (NIDEFEST), billed for October 28–31, 2025, at The Amphitheatre / Arena, Unity Park, Udo Udoma Avenue, Uyo, is set to be a defining moment in the cultural calendar of the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large. It is an inspired creation of the organizers — PJ Chills and the Crew– hosted by the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Culture and Tourism under the transformative leadership of Dr. Anieti Udofia, who has not only endorsed but wholeheartedly accepted to host this grand cultural convergence. This decision aligns seamlessly with the A.R.I.S.E. Agenda of His Excellency, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, Ph.D., in advancing arts, tourism and community development as drivers of unity and prosperity.
NIDEFEST will bring together participating contingents from Akwa Ibom, Rivers, Bayelsa, Delta, Edo, Ondo, Abia, Imo and Cross River States—each renowned for distinctive cultural treasures.
From the rhythmic masquerades of Cross River and the vibrant regatta traditions of Rivers State, to the intricate bronze works of Edo, the canoe and fishing festivals of Bayelsa, the colourful Ekpe and Ekpo societies of Akwa Ibom, the flamboyant dance heritage of Delta, the deep-rooted storytelling of Ondo, and the rich folklore and textile artistry of Abia and Imo—the festival will be a living showcase of diversity in unity.
The foresight of the organisers is matched by the enabling environment created by the Akwa Ibom State Government, offering NIDEFEST the potential to generate both tangible and intangible benefits: boosting tourism inflows, stimulating local economies, creating direct and indirect jobs, fostering inter-state cultural exchange, preserving indigenous traditions and enhancing Niger Delta’s visibility on national and international platforms.
It is, therefore, imperative that relevant State and Federal Government agencies, cultural institutions, tourism boards, and development partners rally behind the host government and the organising committee. Their active support—through sponsorships, policy backing, logistic facilitation, and amplified promotion—will ensure that NIDEFEST achieves its full potential as a regional flagship event.
This is a clarion call to all stakeholders: from Akwa Ibom and her sister Niger Delta States, cultural custodians, corporate organisations, creative professionals, and community leaders. Let us collectively embrace NIDEFEST 2025, participate actively and make the bold regional statement the festival intends. The legacy will not just be four days of celebration, but a lasting testament to Niger Delta’s pride, resilience, creativity, and united voice in Nigeria’s cultural renaissance.
James Nkereuwem is the Features Editor/South-South Nigeria Bureau Chief of Attractions International Monthly (AIM) Magazine
