Entertainment Deputy Editor
Pius Imafidon
Global music star and American Idol alumna Jordin Sparks is set to make a historic appearance in Lagos as the headliner for the maiden edition of the Artistic Pulse Festival (APF) — Africa’s first festival dedicated to sustainability within the creative economy.
The multi-day celebration, scheduled to run from December 3 to 7 at Remembrance Arcade, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), will unite music, film, fashion, food, art, and technology under one expansive theme:
“Footprints of Interconnectivity, Growth and Expansion: Creativity, Culture, Commerce, and Innovation.”
A Festival With a Mission
Curated by NMO Management and PR, the Artistic Pulse Festival aims to redefine Africa’s creative landscape by merging artistry with sustainability and entrepreneurship. The event is designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises, support indigenous creators, and strengthen the continent’s position in global creative markets.
Attendees can expect a rich array of activities, including:
-
Trade fairs and creative exhibitions
-
Film screenings and symposia
-
Children’s art and innovation workshops
-
Cultural showcases and networking opportunities
Speaking during a press briefing, Dr. Ngozi Omambala, P Group Managing Director of NMO Management Ltd and Vice Chair of the NACCIMA Creative Economy Trade Group, described APF as a transformational platform.
“APF is not just a festival; it is a movement that positions Nigeria and Africa as global leaders in sustainable creative innovation,” she said.
Major Highlights
The showpiece of this year’s festival will be the 11th Annual Pan-African Music Fashion Runway (MFR), taking place on Saturday, December 6, at the Naval Dockyard in Victoria Island.
Here, Jordin Sparks will thrill guests with a live performance, joined by top fashion designers, international models, and musical acts representing the best of Pan-African creativity.
Another key feature is the Golden Break Through (GBT) Auditions, a youth-driven talent discovery program that will select and mentor two emerging models for the 2025 runway season.
Citywide Impact
Co-founder of Lagos Island Connect, Ms. Yemisi Ransome-Kuti, praised the initiative, emphasizing that the festival shines a spotlight on the cultural depth and creative spirit of Lagos while promoting environmental mindfulness.
President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, also lauded the organisers for boosting local entrepreneurship.
“Embracing Nigerian-made products is both patriotic and strategic. Each purchase supports jobs, strengthens our heritage, and contributes to national economic growth,” he said.
Driving Sustainable Development Through Creativity
Fully supported by the Lagos State Ministry of Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment and NACCIMA Global, the Artistic Pulse Festival aims to situate Nigeria’s creative sector at the forefront of sustainable innovation and global cultural relevance.
The inaugural edition promises to set a new benchmark for creativity-driven economic empowerment on the African continent.
