Organisers of the 2025 Eko Fiesta have unveiled plans for a three-day cultural and commercial showcase designed to promote Lagos as a leading hub for tourism, arts, entertainment and investment in Africa.
The disclosure was made at a press conference held at the Federal Palace Hotel and Casino, Victoria Island, Lagos, ahead of the event scheduled for December 22 to December 24, 2025, at the Muri-Okunola Park, Victoria Island
Speaking at the briefing, the Convener of Eko Fiesta and Partner at Dosh and Wales Group, Wale Oyebanji, described the fiesta as more than a festive gathering, but a deliberate platform aimed at connecting celebration with economic opportunity.
From a job creation standpoint, initiatives like this stimulate growth, activate trade and help people turn ideas into reality,” she said, adding that the bank’s programmes support Nigerians across generations—from students and young professionals to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Providing insights into participation levels, one of the organisers, Oluwadamilare Osho, revealed that public interest in the event has been overwhelming, with over 10,000 people already registered online ahead of the fiesta.
“We are pushing towards 15,000 registrations. Although the Muri-Okunola Park can accommodate between 8,000 and 9,000 people at a time, we are expecting at least that number daily across the three days,” Osho said.
He also disclosed that 50 vendors have already been confirmed to showcase their products and services across commerce, culture and entertainment, noting that the strong turnout reflects growing confidence in the Eko Fiesta concept.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Idris Aregbe, reiterated the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment through creative and cultural initiatives.
He assured stakeholders that the government would continue to support and participate in the Eko Fiesta annually.
Adding a creative industry perspective, a young fashion entrepreneur, Miss Tosky Opeifa, expressed excitement at being part of the event, saying she intends to blend European influences with local fabrics to showcase the richness and versatility of Nigerian materials.
He added that the event would also showcase the creativity of young Lagosians to a global audience, create networking and mentorship opportunities for young professionals and entrepreneurs, and serve as a civic platform for engagement between regulatory institutions, youths and the diaspora in a relaxed setting.
Also speaking, Ayodele Olojede, Divisional Head, Retail and SMEs, Wema Bank Plc, said the bank’s involvement in the Eko Fiesta was driven by its focus on impact, empowerment and sustainable economic growth.
“Getting involved in an initiative like this is first and foremost about impact. It is about the people who will benefit and the value it creates across communities,” Olojede said, noting that programmes such as Eko Fiesta address one of the biggest challenges facing SMEs—access to markets.
She disclosed that Wema Bank has supported about 3,000 vendors by connecting them with nearly 3,000 buyers, adding that partnering with the organisers was a natural fit.
