The Lagos State Government is gearing up to showcase its rich cultural heritage and vibrant creative scene at the African Cultural Festival in Pennsylvania, USA, scheduled for September 19-21, 2025. This strategic move aligns with the government’s THEMES+ agenda, which prioritizes tourism and entertainment as key drivers of economic growth and global recognition. The festival presents a unique opportunity for Lagos State to strengthen its position as a prominent cultural hub on the world stage, fostering collaboration and exchange with international audiences. The state’s participation will involve a diverse delegation of creatives, entrepreneurs, and innovators, all eager to share their talents and perspectives with the world.
Adding star power to the Lagos State delegation is the acclaimed Afrobeats musician, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba. Renowned for his captivating performances and global hits, 2Baba will grace the festival stage with his musical prowess, further amplifying the state’s cultural message. His iconic song “African Queen,” recently recognized by Billboard as the Greatest Afrobeats Song of All Time, will undoubtedly resonate with the audience, showcasing the power of African music to transcend borders and connect people. This performance will not only entertain but also serve as a testament to the vibrancy and global influence of Nigerian music. 2Baba’s participation underscores the importance of music as a cultural ambassador and its potential to forge connections between nations.
The African Cultural Festival, themed “Africa to the World: Culture, Creativity and Collaboration,” aims to bridge the gap between Africa and its diaspora, fostering economic development and cultural exchange. The event promises a dynamic platform for showcasing African art, music, fashion, and cuisine, offering attendees an immersive experience of the continent’s diverse cultural tapestry. This cross-cultural exchange will facilitate a deeper understanding and appreciation of African heritage, fostering unity and collaboration between different communities.
The festival’s CEO, Wole Adeniyi, emphasizes the significance of this event as a catalyst for African growth and reconnection with its diaspora. He envisions the festival as a movement to ignite cultural and economic transformation, creating opportunities for collaboration and partnership between Africa and the world. The timing is considered ideal, as the world seeks unity and collaboration to address global challenges. The festival offers a timely platform for promoting African perspectives and contributions to the global conversation.
The selection of 2Baba to perform at the festival is particularly poignant, given the recent recognition of “African Queen” as the greatest Afrobeats song of all time. This accolade further solidifies 2Baba’s status as a musical icon and highlights the global impact of his music. The song’s enduring popularity, spanning decades, speaks to its universal appeal and its ability to resonate with diverse audiences. The performance at the African Cultural Festival will be a celebration of both 2Baba’s musical legacy and the cultural significance of “African Queen.”
The Lagos State Government’s participation in the African Cultural Festival represents a strategic investment in promoting its cultural identity and fostering international partnerships. By showcasing its creative talents and engaging with a global audience, Lagos State aims to strengthen its position as a leading cultural destination and contribute to the broader narrative of African excellence. The event provides a platform for Lagos State to tell its unique story and demonstrate its contributions to the global cultural landscape. The presence of 2Baba, a musical icon, will undoubtedly amplify this message and draw attention to the vibrancy of Lagos State’s creative scene. The festival serves as a springboard for future collaborations and partnerships, contributing to the growth of the state’s creative industries.
