The National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) is collaborating with Enugu State Government to host the 2026 National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) to promote national unity and cultural diversity.

The director-general of NCAC, Obi Asika, said on Friday in Abuja that the 2026 edition, with the theme “Connected Culture”, will bring together delegations from the 36 states. The competition will take place in Enugu from November 21 to 28.

Mr Asika said that the eight-day competition will feature entertainment, cultural exchange, learning and national celebration activities. He said that with the postponement of the 2025 edition, the council and the Enugu government have renewed their commitment to delivering a connected national festival that reflects the cultural diversity of contemporary Nigeria.

Mr Asika added that the council is partnering with the British Council and other leading industry organisations to offer training programmes in the creative sector to enhance Nigeria’s cultural heritage across the board.

He therefore called on corporate organisations, cultural institutions, media organisations and creative industry stakeholders to become part of the national festival.

Governor Peter Mbah said the state is ready to host Nigeria and the world, noting that “Enugu is ready to host Nigeria and welcome the world” as the festival “provides an opportunity to showcase the transformation of our state, warmth of our people and the richness of our cultural heritage”.

“We are prepared to deliver a world-class festival that will allow visitors to experience Enugu as a leading destination for culture, tourism, investment and creativity,” Mr Mbah said.

The commissioner for culture and tourism, Ugochi Madueke, said, “We are excited to welcome all artists, cultural delegations and visitors from across Nigeria and beyond to Enugu. NAFEST will give us the opportunity to showcase the beauty of our city and hospitality. We anticipate, and Enugu is ready.”

(NAN)