The Federal Government has postponed the 2025 edition of the National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST), earlier scheduled to begin on November 22 in Enugu State.
The announcement was made in Abuja yesterday through a statement by Nneka Anibeze, Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy.
According to the ministry, the postponement followed a careful assessment of the nation’s security situation and the somber mood across the country in the wake of recent attacks.
“In solidarity with the affected families and communities, and out of deep respect for the lives lost, the Minister, Hannatu Musawa, in consultation with stakeholders, has approved the postponement of the festival to a later date,” the statement said.
The ministry noted that NAFEST has historically played a vital role in national unity, cultural diplomacy and soft power, bringing Nigerians together and strengthening social cohesion.
“NAFEST remains one of the rare national events capable of projecting a different and more accurate picture of Nigeria—a picture of unity, inclusiveness, hospitality, and national confidence,” the statement added.
A new date for the festival is expected to be announced after further consultations and security reviews.
