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Abuja is gearing up to become the creative heartbeat of Africa this December as it hosts the 2025 edition of the Music and Arts Development Festival (MADEFest), a four-day event designed to promote unity, creativity, and cultural diversity across the continent. 

Scheduled to hold from December 18 to 21 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, the festival is expected to attract thousands of visitors, boost the city’s creative economy, and reinforce Abuja’s growing status as Nigeria’s cultural and entertainment capital. 

Festival Director, Malcolm Oseahon, in a statement on Saturday, described MADEFest as “more than an event — it’s a movement.” 

“We’re creating a space where creativity thrives, communities connect, and culture is celebrated. This year’s edition will be big, bold, and deeply rooted in the Nigerian spirit of resilience and beauty,” Oseahon said, noting that the 2025 theme, ‘Fusion of Eras’, will evoke nostalgia while celebrating modern innovation. 

Endorsed by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs, Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, and the Federal Ministry of Youth Development, MADEFest 2025 will feature a mix of music, art, fashion, food, and cultural showcases. 

Highlights include a music competition to discover Africa’s next star, live performances by top and emerging artists, cultural exhibitions, food and fashion fairs, and entrepreneurship showcases spotlighting local businesses. Workshops, panel sessions, and family-friendly creative zones will also feature prominently. 

A special segment tagged MADEFest Afterhours (Detty December) will deliver electrifying night experiences with DJ sets and fusion parties, aimed at driving nightlife tourism and entertainment business in the capital.