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Beeta Arts Festival Returns for Its 5th Edition in Abuja
The Beeta Arts Festival (BAF) is set to make a grand comeback from December 5th to 7th, 2025, in Abuja. Established by the acclaimed actor, producer, and cultural champion Bikiya Graham-Douglas, BAF has evolved into a distinguished platform celebrating theatre, film, music, dance, visual arts, and African cultural narratives. This year’s theme, “Connected Voices,” underscores the festival’s commitment to fostering unity and empowerment through artistic expression.
A Rich Lineup of Theatre and Storytelling
Hosted at the elegant Abuja Continental Hotel, the festival will spotlight riveting stage productions from renowned storytellers such as Ivie Okujaiye, Habiba Zock-Sock, Goodness Emmanuel, Ame Aiyejina, Daniel Okosun, Tony Ede (Thin Tall Tony), and Abiodun Kazeem. Alongside these established artists, fresh talents will also grace the stage, bringing new perspectives and voices to the forefront. The theatre segment will once again be produced by Ola Rotimi Fakunle, whose expertise promises a compelling and polished showcase.
“The Beeta Arts Festival was envisioned to elevate African storytelling and open doors for emerging creatives. Our theme, ‘Connected Voices,’ reflects the power of art to unite and inspire. We eagerly anticipate welcoming artists and audiences to Abuja for a memorable celebration of African artistry,” said Bikiya Graham-Douglas.
Showcasing Pan-African Cinema and New Awards
The film program, curated by Mandela Washington Fellow and filmmaker Priye Diri, will feature an impressive selection of works from emerging filmmakers across Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Burkina Faso, Uganda, Tunisia, Morocco, and Côte d’Ivoire. Notably, several films from alumni of the Multichoice Talent Factory will be screened, highlighting the festival’s dedication to nurturing new talent. For the first time, BAF will introduce an Audience Choice Award in both Film and Theatre categories, empowering attendees to vote for their favorite performances and celebrate outstanding creativity.
Music, Entertainment, and Vibrant Community Engagement
Adding to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere, upcoming musical artists will perform throughout the event, with a special guest appearance by rapper and DJ Muna Abi, whose energetic sets are sure to electrify the audience. This blend of music and arts fosters a lively environment that encourages cultural exchange and community bonding.
Insightful Conversations and Social Impact Initiatives
BAF 2025 will also host a series of thought-provoking discussions featuring influential figures such as Dimbo Atiya, Biodun Stephen, Lyndsey Efejuku, Rahama Sadau, Utee Rone, Prince (Aboki) Daniel, and Malik Afegbua. These sessions, organized in partnership with the UNDP X Jubilee Fellows Program, will explore emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities within the creative industries across Africa.
In a strong commitment to social change, the festival will conduct Social Impact Dialogues on Gender-Based Violence in collaboration with UN Women, Dorothy Njemanze Foundation, and the National Assembly Library Trust Fund. Speakers from organizations like Tech Her, Gender Mobile, and Dr. Bukky Shonibare of Invictus Africa will lead conversations aimed at raising awareness and driving action.
Festival Market, Lifestyle Experiences, and Literary Engagements
The Festival Market & Lifestyle Experiences, supported by UNDP’s #HerAFCFTA initiative, will offer attendees a rich array of fashion, crafts, literature, culinary delights, wellness activities, and cultural showcases. Additionally, the festival’s popular Literacy Segment returns, featuring curated dialogues with African authors in collaboration with Paperworth Books Limited, fostering a deeper appreciation for African literature.
Connecting Creatives with Investors: The Bridge Room
One of the festival’s highlights is The Bridge Room, a dedicated pitch session developed in partnership with the Creative Catalyst Fund by Chapel Hill Denham. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between creative entrepreneurs and potential investors, facilitating collaborations, trust-building, and funding opportunities to accelerate growth within Africa’s creative economy.
Partners and Ticket Information
Beeta Arts Festival 2025 is proudly supported by a diverse group of partners including Abuja Continental Hotel, Chairborne Global Services, UNDP, UN Women, Chapel Hill Denham, Creative Economy Practice by CC-Hub, Leadway Assurance, PaperWorth Books, Five 2 Media, National Assembly Library, Botswana High Commission, Wigwe & Partners, Century Group, Nigerian Breweries, Jura Whisky, CoolFM, Wazobia FM, Inspiration FM, and Bella Naija.
