US - based Nigerian Chamber of Commerce plans 12-day cultural fiesta in Abuja

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By Madu Obi

A United States of America, USA, - based Nigerian Chamber of Commerce is to organize a 12- day cultural fiesta in Abuja in November this year.

The Founder and Chief Executive Officer, CEO, of the Chamber, Mr Gregory Ihenacho said in Awka that the organization, which was established in 2002, connects business communities in the US and Nigeria for the purpose of uniting them for greater successes.

According to him, the Abuja Afrocentric Cultural Expo will be the largest global cultural platform in the country, adding that it will showcase the rich African cultural values and traditions that will involve Nigerians, Africans from the mainland, and Africans from the diaspora—including Brazilians, Caribbean residents, Americans, South Americans, Europeans, and Asians.

Ihenacho said the Chamber has already secured partnerships with the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), the Arewa New Agenda (ANA), and numerous federal government parastatals to ensure the success of the programme.

He said the project is expected to have a direct economic impact of at least $250,000,000, adding that the 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.

"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! For my African brothers and sisters, book your flights and head to Abuja.

On why Abuja was chosen for the fiesta, he 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. The continent’s economic boom awaits, and we must seize it to establish a stable and prosperous future and failure will lead to external influences and disarray", he said.