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ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL (AAF) SET TO DEBUT IN ABU DHABI, UAE

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ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL (AAF) SET TO DEBUT IN ABU DHABI, UAE

ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL (AAF) SET TO DEBUT IN ABU DHABI, UAE

SUPERSTARS OMAH LAY, STONEBWOY, DIAMOND PLATNUMZ, YEMI ALADE, TEKNO AND SKALES SET TO PERFORM

 

 

 

The award-winning All Africa Festival (AAF), the UAE’s largest celebration of Africa’s rich and diverse cultures in all their vibrant expressions and representations, is set to make a return for its 3rd edition, debuting in the nation’s capital, Abu Dhabi.

 

 

 

 

 

The festival will take place from 02 – 04 February 2024, and will see the UAE Africa Connect (UAEAC) platform operate as the festival’s strategic partner.

 

 

 

UAEAC is a platform that celebrates the harmonic and solid partnership between the UAE and Sub-Saharan Africa.
A-List artists slated to perform at the event include Omah Lay, Diamond Platnumz, Yemi Alade, Eddy Kenzo, Tekno, Skales, Kofi Olomide and Nora Fatehi amongst many other African stars.

 

 

 

 

The stage will be set on the grounds of Etihad Park; located in the heart of Abu Dhabi’s landmark family entertainment destination, Yas Island.

 

 

 

 

 

This fun packed event will bring together residents and visitors alike for a 3-day long entertainment and culturally immersive extravaganza that includes performances from globally renowned music icons, as well as locally based talents and DJs, with representation from all regions of the African continent.

 

 

 

 

 

Festival goers are invited to also come out and enjoy diverse offerings of pan-African cuisine, catch a glimpse of unique displays of live art and creative installations, immerse themselves in fashion exhibits from UAE based designers; all of which come together to present a mosaic of uniquely curated experiences that pay homage to the spirit of Africa and its people residing in different corners of the world.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“We couldn’t be more excited to bring back the All Africa Festival, with Yas Island in Abu Dhabi providing the perfect backdrop to take this event to new heights in driving our mandate to showcase and celebrate Africa’s vibrant entertainment, food and cultural experiences to residents and visitors to the UAE and the GCC region at large,” said Nina Olatoke, CEO and Co-Founder of the All Africa Festival.

 

 

 

 

 

 

“From humble beginnings in Dubai’s Creek Park in 2018, to two consecutive years hosting the Festival at the foot of Burj Khalifa in Burj Park, our history spans more than five years of curating and successfully producing a festival that welcomes all nationalities to come and experience the heartbeat of Africa through sound and displays of art, fashion and cuisine,” said Nina.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The decision to move the All Africa Festival to Abu Dhabi, comes inspired by the nation’s ongoing commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally diverse society, as well as having witnessed the growth in numbers of African expats living and working in the UAE. The UAE is increasingly becoming widely viewed by the African community as a land of opportunity and a global destination of distinction for occupational, entrepreneurship and creative opportunities for expats.

 

 

 

 

 

“As we bring to life the electric, vibrant energy for which Africa is known through music performances, fashion and art installations across the three days, we are truly honoured to be working closely with UAE Africa Connect, our strategic partner, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, as well as Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, in bringing this event to life,” Nina adds.

 

 

 

 

 

 

The African renaissance is alive and growing across the world, with African music genres Amapiano and Afrobeats for example, becoming platforms for which to connect the world with the indomitable buzz of African creativity and intercultural exchange through song and dance. The All Africa Festival seeks to therefore build on previous successes, attracting residents and tourists to what has become an annual event that celebrates not only the diversity of African culture, but also the equally culturally diverse landscape for which the UAE is known.

 

 

ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL (AAF) SET TO DEBUT IN ABU DHABI, UAE

 

 

 

Tickets to the All Africa Festival on Yas Island are now available for sale on Platinumlist and Ticketmaster.
Ticketmaster: https://rb.gy/jzzj6
Platinumlist: https://rb.gy/oejdh

 

 

 

 

Potential vendors and performers keen to participate in this edition of AAF are invited to register their interest by emailing info@allafricafestival.

 

 

 

 

To learn more about the All Africa Festival or catch key event updates, visit www.allafricafestival.com

 

 

Notes to the Editors

ALL AFRICA FESTIVAL
The All Africa Festival (AFF) is brought to you by the All African Food & Culture Fest, a Dubai DED registered company Lic. No. 955399. Having started in 2018, AFF was conceived with the desire to showcase the vibrant energy, beauty, culture, and diversity of Africa in all HER expressions to residents and expat of UAE and the region.
The Founding members and organisers of AFF lead non-profit initiatives which support Africans in the UAE, in collaboration with African Missions, businesses and communities; doing so by running workshops, seminars and events that help foster collaboration between the African business community and residents and expats living and working in UAE.

YAS ISLAND
Yas Island is an island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It occupies a total land area of 25 km². It is a leisure island and one of the largest tourism projects in Abu Dhabi.

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Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration

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Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)

 

Otunba Gbenga, popularly known as Leo Taiwo, will be celebrated for his 45-year journey in the music industry at a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in Lagos.

 

The event, set to hold at the Radio Lagos Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, is expected to bring together friends, family, and associates to honour a career defined by longevity and consistent contribution to Nigeria’s Fuji music scene.

 

Though not widely in the public spotlight, Leo Taiwo is regarded within industry circles as a respected figure whose work has spanned decades. His role as a music producer and collaborator has positioned him among the quiet contributors who have supported the growth and continuity of Fuji music over the years.

 

The celebration is slated to begin at 2 p.m., with guests expected to observe a white dress code. Attendance will be by access card, with caps and gele serving as entry identifiers.

 

Fuji star King Sule Alao Malaika is billed to lead the music for the occasion, while popular hosts Ifankaleluyah and Tokunbo Marvins will anchor proceedings.

 

The choice of venue underscores the cultural relevance of the event. Radio Lagos has long been associated with the promotion of indigenous music, making it a fitting location for a milestone rooted in tradition and legacy.

 

Reaching 45 years in any creative industry is a notable achievement. In a genre that has evolved across generations, such longevity reflects both resilience and sustained relevance.

 

As preparations continue, the event is shaping up to be not just a celebration of one man’s journey, but also a moment to acknowledge the enduring community behind Fuji music.

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BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy

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*BREAKING NEWS

*Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*

Lagos, Nigeria – In a stunning display of talent, leadership, and philanthropy, Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo has been crowned winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award. This remarkable achievement cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.

 

Amb. Chelsea Nwodo, the newly crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her in this remarkable achievement.

 

“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to announce that I have been crowned the winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award,” Amb. Nwodo said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who voted for me, including my loving family members and TOSA to NAGA , I am honored to be part of this prestigious award and I appreciate the recognition.”

 

Amb. Nwodo, a multifaceted personality, has proven herself as an acclaimed actress, dedicated philanthropist, and visionary business leader. Her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.

 

As CEO of the Chelsea Nwodo Foundation, she drives transformative initiatives empowering women and children, fostering growth and opportunity. Her leadership skills extends to Chy-kas Travels and Tour, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen.

 

Recently appointed Chief of Staff to the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, Amb. Nwodo’s exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood is undeniable.

 

Amb. Nwodo’s philanthropy resonates deeply. Her impactful “Operation Feed 5000 Street Children” program, in partnership with Regal Connect Foundation-Ghana, delivered food, shelter, and skills training to vulnerable children in Ghana, attracting high-profile support.

 

Her NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 win celebrates not just her achievements but her dedication to uplifting others, making her a beacon of hope across industries. This recognition solidifies her position as a role model and influencer, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.

 

The NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA award is a testament to Amb. Nwodo’s hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Her win is a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent, showcasing the best of Nollywood’s talent and philanthropy.

 

BREAKING NEWS *Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*

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Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release 

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 Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release

By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji) 

Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola, widely known as Omo-Opeki, is stepping into a defining moment in her career with the official announcement of her ambitious 3-in-1 Fuji album. Titled Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, the project is scheduled for release on April 8 — a date that also marks her birthday.

 

More than a strategic rollout, the timing signals intention. It frames the project as both a personal milestone and a cultural statement, positioning the veteran Fuji act at the center of a conversation that extends beyond music.

 

A Three-Part Statement of Growth, Identity, and Gratitude :
By unveiling the titles of the three albums, Omo-Opeki transforms what was once a bold concept into a fully realized artistic vision.

Each title carries its own thematic weight:
• Step Up suggests progression — a conscious elevation into a new phase of artistry and influence

• Multi Talented highlights range, reinforcing her versatility within a genre that rewards depth and endurance.

• God’s Mercy reflects gratitude, pointing to the spiritual and personal journey that underpins her career.

 

Together, the albums form a layered narrative. Rather than a single body of work, the 3-in-1 structure allows for a broader exploration of identity, sound, and storytelling — a format that aligns naturally with Fuji’s tradition of extended compositions and expressive delivery.

 

April 8 : More Than A Release Date :
Choosing April 8 as the release date adds a deeper layer of symbolism to the project. Birthdays often represent renewal, reflection, and forward momentum — themes that mirror the essence of the album titles themselves.

 

For Omo-Opeki, the alignment of her birthday with such a significant release suggests more than coincidence. It positions the moment as a personal and professional convergence — one that celebrates longevity while signaling evolution.

 

In an industry where timing can shape perception, anchoring a major release to a date of personal significance strengthens the narrative around it. It becomes not just a drop, but a moment of declaration.

 

Rewriting the Narrative for Women in Fuji :

Fuji music, deeply rooted in Yoruba Islamic and Apala traditions, has long been shaped by male dominance in both performance and large-scale releases. While female artists have contributed significantly to its growth, landmark projects of this magnitude have rarely been associated with women.

 

Omo-Opeki’s 3-in-1 album challenges that precedent.

Executing a multi-volume release demands more than creative output. It requires strategic planning, financial commitment, audience loyalty, and the confidence to carry such weight within a traditional space. By taking on this scale, she is not only expanding her own catalog but also redefining what is possible for female Fuji musicians.

Leadership Beyond The Studio :
Beyond her work as a recording artist, Omo-Opeki serves as the President of the Elite Women Musician Association of Nigeria (EWMAN). Her role within the organization reflects a broader commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and structural support for women in the music industry.

This dual position — as both artist and leader — strengthens the significance of her upcoming release. It reinforces her credibility not just as a performer, but as a figure actively shaping opportunities for others.

 

Balancing creative output with industry leadership is no small feat. Yet, it adds weight to the moment, positioning the album as part of a larger narrative around representation and access.

 

A Strategic Moment For Fuji in a Global Era :
The announcement arrives at a time when Afrobeats continues to dominate global conversations, often overshadowing indigenous genres. In this context, bold releases within traditional spaces carry added importance.

 

A project of this scale does more than spotlight an individual artist — it draws attention back to the genre itself.

 

By delivering a 3-in-1 album with clear thematic direction and symbolic timing, Omo-Opeki is contributing to a renewed visibility for Fuji. It becomes a reminder that the genre remains dynamic, evolving, and capable of commanding attention on its own terms.

A Defining Chapter in Motion :
With Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, Omo-Opeki is not just releasing music — she is curating a moment that blends personal significance, artistic ambition, and cultural impact.

 

April 8 will mark more than a birthday. It will stand as a milestone in her journey and, potentially, a turning point in the narrative surrounding female artists in Fuji music.

 

As the date approaches, anticipation continues to build. But beyond expectation lies something more enduring — the sense that this release is not just about what is coming next, but about what it makes possible going forward.

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