By Daniel Peters
Nigeria’s Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hanatu Musawa, along with the Founder, NICOCUSA, Mr Gregory Ihenacho, will be briefing newsmen on Friday to unveil Afrocentric Cultural Expo project’s global opportunities.
The news conference will be hosted by the Nigerian Chamber of Commerce-USA (NICOCUSA), in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture and Tourism and the Afrocentric Cultural Expo Organising Committee
ahead of the forthcoming Cultural Expo in November 2026.
The head of media and communications, NICOCUSA, Mr Samuel Odi, said the Press parley is designed to formally unveil the vision, objectives, programmes and key activities of the Expo, while highlighting its role in promoting African culture, creativity, entrepreneurship, tourism, investment and global economic opportunities.
“The occasion is expected to be graced by the Honourable Minister of Arts, culture and creative economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, on Friday at the City gate, Abuja.
“We look forward to welcoming members of the press and working together to amplify the story of Africa’s culture, creativity and global opportunities”, Odi noted.
The United States based Nigerian Chamber of Commerce has stepped up preparations to organize the 12- day cultural fiesta in Abuja in November this year.
The Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the Chamber, Mr Gregory Ihenacho, told our Correspondent in Abuja that organizers have already sold over 1,000 exhibition booths to food vendors and medium and large-scale companies.
He added: ”This festival, originally conceived to be held in Lake Skinner Park, Los Angeles, was frozen after obtaining the necessary usage permit. Last year, I revived the idea and pitched it to Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, who immediately adopted the project and promised to partner with the chamber.
“The event will take place from November 7-18, 2026, at the Mashood Abiola National Stadium Complex in Abuja and 12 simultaneous events will be held. The stadium will be transformed into a 24-hour city during the festival”, Ihenacho assured.
“The programmes will feature Afrocentric music festival, fashion week, custodian of African Heritage Awards, African Women Are Gorgeous,
University Intellectual Debate, Food Expo, Health Fair, Dance Your Culture, Cultural Festival, Football Tournament, FIlm Festival, Global African Business and Investment Forum”.
He further said: “It is now imperative that we take control of our narratives and embark on a process of recalibration. The time has come for us to unite and reclaim the narrative, thereby effecting a complete transformation of the erroneous perceptions and detrimental public relations that have persisted unchecked.
“As one people, arts serve as a powerful unifying force. We have established a comprehensive cultural platform that accommodates all. Anthropology upholds the principle of cultural equality, recognizing the inherent value of each culture. Regardless of one’s heritage or race, we invite you to join us in celebrating our shared humanity.
“As a Nigerian that has lived in America for 39 years, I’ve witnessed America’s blessings. It shaped me into the person I am. I often say I’m more American than Nigerian. I urge my diaspora brothers and sisters to return. Africa awaits you!
On why Abuja was chosen for the fiesta, Mr Gregory Ihenacho stated: “Abuja is renowned for its beauty. It is an ideal city with world-class highways and road networks, a thriving hospitality industry, a diverse array of restaurants, and numerous tourism attractions. Abuja houses the highest concentration of foreign missions in Nigeria and serves as the capital of the nation.”
According to Ihenacho, the Afrocentric Cultural Expo was meticulously curated to serve as the preeminent African cultural authority, facilitating the activation of creatives, fostering economic development, and empowering individuals through the transformative power of cultural exhibitions and trade.
“The Cultural Expo was conceived to shift the prevailing narrative in our favour. Through cultural exchange, the world will gain a profound appreciation for the richness and depth of our heritage. It is imperative that Africans take the initiative to narrate our own stories.
“Africa, as a global leader in music and fashion, presents an opportunity for unity and addressing challenges”, Ihenacho stated.
The organization, which was established in 2002, connects business communities in the US and Nigeria for the purpose of uniting them for greater successes.
