Calabar Entertainment Conference Opens as MultiChoice Renews Decade-Long Partnership

The 10th edition of the Calabar Entertainment Conference opened in Calabar, Cross River State, on Friday, October 23, 2026, as organisers continued preparations for a two-day programme aimed at connecting entertainment professionals, emerging creatives and audiences with opportunities across Nigeria’s creative industry.

The event, known as the Calabar Entertainment Conference & Festival (CECF), is organised by Hit 95.9 FM. This year’s edition marks a decade of partnership with MultiChoice Nigeria, which has renewed its support for the gathering for the 10th consecutive year.

The conference is scheduled to bring together participants for keynote presentations, panel discussions, masterclasses and networking sessions. The programme is designed to encourage professional exchange, strengthen industry relationships and create opportunities for people working across entertainment and related creative fields.

The renewed partnership reinforces MultiChoice Nigeria’s continued association with the Calabar event, which organisers have positioned as a platform for supporting creative talent and strengthening connections within the entertainment sector.

Patrick Ugbe, executive producer of the conference and festival and chief executive officer of Hit 95.9 FM, described the decade-long relationship as a reflection of shared commitment to the growth of Nigeria’s creative industry.

According to statements released by the organisers, Ugbe said the event had developed into a meeting point where creative professionals could exchange ideas, build relationships and explore opportunities for collaboration.

Tope Oshunkeye, senior vice-president of communications at MultiChoice Nigeria, also reaffirmed the company’s support, explaining that the partnership provides an opportunity to strengthen its engagement with regional audiences while contributing to the development of the creative sector.

The renewal comes as Nigeria’s entertainment industry continues to draw attention for its cultural influence and potential to generate employment, stimulate enterprise and create opportunities for emerging talent. However, the extent to which individual initiatives translate into sustainable jobs and commercial growth depends on factors including access to funding, professional training, distribution and viable routes to market.

The 2026 programme is structured as a two-day event, with the conference taking place on Friday, October 23, followed by the festival on Saturday, October 24.

According to the event’s official website, the conference is scheduled for Hogis Royale Banquet Hall on Bishop Moynagh Avenue, State Housing Estate, Calabar. The organisers have listed the conference as free to attend.

The festival is scheduled to take place at The Mirage Carpark on MCC Road, Calabar, from noon on Saturday. Organisers have advertised activities including live music, food, games and other entertainment experiences, with tickets listed at ₦5,000.

The format combines professional engagement with public entertainment, giving participants opportunities to discuss industry challenges and connect with peers before the programme shifts towards live performances and festival activities.

Beyond its entertainment programme, the conference provides a platform for discussions about the conditions required for Nigeria’s creative industries to grow. These include developing talent, improving access to professional networks, encouraging investment and helping creators connect their work with wider audiences.

For emerging artists, content producers and entrepreneurs, such gatherings can provide opportunities to meet established industry figures, exchange practical knowledge and explore potential partnerships. The long-term value of these encounters, however, will depend on whether the relationships formed lead to continued collaboration and tangible opportunities.

Calabar’s cultural identity and tourism appeal also offer a regional setting for the event. By bringing industry conversations and public entertainment together, the conference and festival seek to attract attention to Cross River State’s contribution to Nigeria’s creative landscape.

MultiChoice’s renewal for a tenth consecutive year represents a significant milestone for the event and its organisers. Sustained private-sector support can help cultural and creative initiatives maintain continuity, expand programming and build relationships with industry stakeholders.

Nevertheless, the wider impact of the partnership will be better assessed through measurable outcomes, including participation by emerging creatives, new professional collaborations, business opportunities and the event’s contribution to the local economy.

As the conference begins its 10th edition, attention will be on the quality of discussions, the opportunities available to participants and the ability of the event to translate industry connections into lasting benefits for Nigeria’s creative community.

The festival programme continues on Saturday, October 24, offering a public celebration of music, culture and entertainment in Calabar.