NECLive 2025, concluded on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Landmark Events Centre in Lagos, marking another milestone in its 13-year history of shaping Africa’s entertainment landscape.
Under the theme “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise,” the conference hosted by Tee A and Bolanle Olukanni brought together over 50 participants, including Steve Babaeko, A’isha Umar Mumuni, Atinuke Babatunde, and Colette Otusheso, for a day of transformative conversations about turning Africa’s cultural dominance into sustainable economic power.
Ayeni Adekunle emphasised the importance of building awareness and investment: “We need more forums like this. Thirteen years ago, when we started NECLive, it was the only one. Today, there is a conference every other day, and it’s good. The more awareness there is, the more investment there is, the more we can build.” He also revealed plans to announce a fund next year to support young creators and innovators who lack access to conventional financing, signalling NECLive’s continued commitment to actionable solutions beyond dialogue.
In his keynote address, Steve Babaeko, CEO of X3M Ideas, highlighted the ingenuity and challenges of Nigeria’s creative sector. While critics sometimes focus on Nigeria’s limitations, the talent and determination of its people remain extraordinary. However, he warned that the country’s creative economy, contributing only 1.2 per cent to GDP, cannot rely solely on individual hustle.
The panel session, “Building Creative Infrastructure to Power Africa’s Economic Growth,” brought together Steve Babaeko, Moliehi Molekoa, Shaibu Husseini, and Colette Otusheso, moderated by Seyitan Atigarin examined what effective infrastructure looks like for film, music, art, design, and advertising, providing practical guidance for creatives, investors, and stakeholders on building ecosystems that nurture talent and drive long-term impact.
Colette Otusheso explained the kind of infrastructure that can allow young creatives to thrive using the model at Accelerate Media Group: “Infrastructure in terms of creating a place where people can grow, a space for collaboration and learning. One of our biggest challenges is not having the infrastructure for them to learn in the creative sector.”
A’isha Umar Mumuni, Chief Digital Officer at MTN, delivered a compelling presentation addressing Africa’s position in the global creative economy. She highlighted Africa’s abundant talent and cultural capital while addressing the continent’s current lack of full access to the global creative economy. She emphasised the policy, business, storytelling, and technological changes needed to position Africa as a global creative exporter.
Another panel session, “Accessing the Global Creative Innovation in a Digital Economy,” featured critical discussions on diaspora markets and value retention. Dominique Ntirushwa, CEO of Streampay Platforms Africa, stressed the need to reduce data costs for African consumers, explaining that affordable streaming remains one of the biggest barriers to digital participation.
MTN’s Funso Finnih noted the need for “building dams”—the core infrastructure needed to enhance distribution, access, and monetisation. “African content is now exported globally through music, fashion, and gaming, but the continent is still not extracting enough value from these exports.”
A standout moment came during the “Funding the Creative Enterprise Ecosystem” panel, moderated by Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi, where music artist Ayo Maff revealed his transition into acting after being cast in Chris Ihidero’s upcoming movie. “I wanted to see myself in a movie,” he shared, discussing how years of shooting music videos inspired his film debut. His story exemplified the rising wave of multidisciplinary artists in Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.
The “Timeless Vs Trending: Building Work That Endures” panel featured Daniel Atteh as educator, with panellists Hammed Adebiyi, Mai Atafo, and NECLive founder Ayeni Adekunle. Moderated by Njideka Akabogu Eke-Uche, the session examined how to balance timeless craftsmanship with fast-moving trends to create enduring creative work that influences culture and storytelling across industries.
Atinuke Babatunde, Head of Content at MultiChoice West Africa, delivered a powerful address on why Africa’s economic future depends on its creators, highlighting the creative sector’s potential to generate jobs, build global brands, and reshape the continent’s narrative. A dedicated panel session in partners hip with MultiChoice featured Kola Omotosho, Victor Agahowa, Atinuke Babatunde, and Emmanuel Adejo.
The afternoon sessions were energised by Gaise Baba, who performed his 2025 viral track “No Turning Back. and Ekemini Ekerette, who led a masterclass on “Fitness, Wellness & Creativity,” highlighting the role of physical and mental well-being in sustaining creativity—a critical conversation often overlooked in discussions about creative enterprise.
NECLive 2025 was brought to you by Nigerian Entertainment Today and the Africa Creative Foundation, in association with ID Africa, BHM, and Huce Valeris. Major sponsors included MultiChoice, MTN Nigeria, First Bank, and The Macallan.
Speakers and panellists consistently emphasised that while Nigeria’s creative economy is worth over $4.2 billion annually and African talent is gaining unprecedented global recognition, significant challenges remain. Infrastructure gaps, funding limitations, weak intellectual property protection, and distribution issues persist, preventing the continent from capturing its full share of the $2.25 trillion global creative economy.
However, NECLive 2025 made one thing abundantly clear: the conversation has evolved from whether Africa’s creative industries can compete globally to how quickly the continent can build the infrastructure, policies, and investment frameworks needed to capture and retain the value its creators generate. As Ayeni Adekunle stated in his opening remarks, “My dream and vision is that we can build at scale, and we are not just longing to be a part of what Hollywood has. I want us to perform at such a scale that we are a force to be reckoned with, and we are on the way there.”
With the announcement of an upcoming fund to support young creators and the continued expansion of platforms like NECLive, Africa’s creative economy is not just rising—it’s building the foundation to dominate. The future isn’t just bright; it’s already being constructed, one conversation, one partnership, and one bold vision at a time.
For those who missed the event, comprehensive coverage is available on nec.ng, thenet.ng, and their social pages
FirstBank of Nigeria, Nigeria’s premier financial institution, has been announced as Official Sponsor Partner for the 2025 edition of the Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive).
NECLive 2025, produced by Nigerian Entertainment Today and the Africa Creative Foundation, in association with ID Africa, BHM, and Huce Valeris, will hold on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.
Since its inception in 2013, NECLive has established itself as an influential platform for critical conversations and interventions shaping the continent’s entertainment landscape, and this partnership aligns with the bank’s strategic focus on stimulating economic diversification and growth within the nation’s burgeoning creative industry.
FirstBank’s support for the sector includes its renowned First@Arts initiative, a platform dedicated to providing financial advisory services, promoting, and supporting the entire value chain of the creative sector. The bank has consistently championed various forms of creative expression, from theatre and film to music and visual arts, viewing the sector as a critical engine for youth employment and national cohesion.
FirstBank will bring its expertise in financial inclusion and economic empowerment to the conference, participating in key discussions on funding gaps, investment strategies, and how creatives can better structure their businesses for growth.
Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive), West Africa’s largest gathering of creative industry professionals, is proud to announce MTN Nigeria Plc, the nation’s leading telecommunications provider, as an Official Sponsor Partner for NECLive 2025.
Over the last two decades, MTN has used its extensive connectivity and digital platforms to help creatives reach wider audiences and turn their passions into sustainable careers.
The company has also contributed to the creative sector by funding projects and fostering the growth and development of talents through The MUSON, Next Afrobeats Star, MTN Play and other initiatives.
Through the MTN Foundation, the company has been a consistent patron of Nigerian creativity, sponsoring major theatre productions, comedy shows, and visual arts exhibitions, including the popular musicals ‘Legends’ and ‘Saro’. This collaboration with NECLive further cements MTN’s role as a key enabler of the creative ecosystem.
MTN’s partnership with NECLive 2025 reinforces its commitment to leveraging technology, connectivity and a range of innovative digital services to drive the growth and economic viability of the African creative sector. Under the theme “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise,” NECLive 2025 aligns perfectly with MTN’s long-standing dedication to the arts and culture.
“NECLive as a platform perfectly aligns with our core mission of using our technology and digital infrastructure to empower industries and enable African creatives to reach global audiences,” said Tobe Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, MTN Nigeria Plc.
In response, Ayeni Adekunle, NECLive Convener, stated, “This partnership with an industry leader like MTN is a monumental step for the entire creative ecosystem, providing not just support but the crucial technological backbone needed to scale our creative enterprises across the continent and beyond.”
The partnership will see MTN contribute its expertise in digital infrastructure and youth engagement to the conference, particularly in discussions around how technology can bridge the gap between African content and global audiences.
NECLive 2025, produced by Nigerian Entertainment Today and the Africa Creative Foundation, in association with ID Africa, BHM, and Huce Valeris, will hold on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.
MultiChoice Nigeria, Africa’s leading entertainment company, has been confirmed as a major sponsor for the Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive) 2025, reaffirming its long-standing commitment to developing the continent’s creative and content infrastructure.
As a consistent and dedicated supporter of NECLive, MultiChoice’s renewed partnership is a powerful statement about its belief in the conference’s position as the defining industry gathering where brilliant minds, boldest visionaries, and brightest talents converge to power Africa through creative enterprise and drive meaningful change.
A subsidiary of The MultiChoice Group, MultiChoice Nigeria’s investment in the creative sector spans content creation, talent development through initiatives like the MultiChoice Talent Factory, and the establishment of platforms that showcase African stories to the world, including the Africa Magic channels and the prestigious AMVCA awards.
John Ugbe, CEO of MultiChoice, West Africa, says. “MultiChoice is committed to fostering sustainable growth and enriching the lives of professionals in Africa’s creative and entertainment industries. We are delighted to participate in NECLive 2025 and anticipate strengthening our relationships with stakeholders across West Africa and the continent,”
MultiChoice will contribute its wealth of experience in content aggregation, distribution, and infrastructure development to the conference, participating in key panel discussions, masterclass sessions, and conversations focused on the future of African storytelling and global market access.
“Having MultiChoice as a sponsor represents a powerful validation of NECLive’s impact on the African entertainment ecosystem,” said Ayeni Adekunle, NECLive Convener “MultiChoice’s platforms have been instrumental in demonstrating the impact of creative enterprise on Africa’s economic transformation. This partnership creates an opportunity for conference participants to engage with industry leaders who are actively building the foundation for a sustainable industry.”
NECLive 2025, produced by Nigerian Entertainment Today and the Africa Creative Foundation, in association with ID Africa, BHM, and Huce Valeris, will hold on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.
Organisers of this year’s edition of the Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive) have announced a partnership with The Macallan, the world-renowned single malt Scotch whisky, as Official Sponsor Partner.
The Macallan has consistently supported high-end art and cultural initiatives in Nigeria, collaborating with Nigerian artists and celebrating the nation’s cultural tastemakers and top whisky connoisseurs over the last few years.
This partnership with NECLive signifies a powerful alignment between the ultra luxury brand’s commitment to craftsmanship, art, and cultural heritage, and the burgeoning excellence of Africa’s creative industry. According to Hammed Adebiyi, Senior Brand Manager, West and Central Africa, Edrington Portfolio, “The Macallan has always celebrated exceptional craftsmanship and artistic excellence, values that resonate deeply with Africa’s thriving creative community. Our partnership with NECLive 2025 is a natural extension of our commitment to championing cultural tastemakers and supporting platforms that elevate creativity across the region.”
Also commenting on the partnership, NECLive Convener, Ayeni Adekunle, said, “We are honoured to partner with The Macallan for NECLive 2025. This collaboration showcases the premium value and world-class artistry within Africa’s creative industry. It reinforces our mission to power the continent through creative enterprise by attracting globally renowned brand partners who recognize and celebrate African creativity.”
NECLive 2025, themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise,” is produced by Nigerian Entertainment Today (Netng) and the Africa Creative Foundation, in association with ID Africa, BHM, and Huce Valeris. The conference will hold on Friday, November 28, 2025, at the Landmark Centre, Lagos.
NECLive 2025 registration will close at 11:59 PM on Friday, November 21, 2025. There will be no registration available at the venue, and entry will be strictly limited to registered participants, guests, and accredited media only.
Secure your spot now to join industry leaders, innovators, and change-makers for this premier event.
Important Details:
Registration Deadline: Friday, November 21, 2025, at 11:59 a.m.
Venue Access: Pre-registration required — no on-site registration available
Attendance: Limited to registered participants, guests, and accredited media
Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of NECLive 2025.
Register before the deadline to ensure your access.
The editorial board of Nigerian Entertainment Today (Netng) and the organisers of the Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive) are profoundly saddened by the passing of the legendary Nigerian Live Band Grandmaster, Akinloye ‘Akiin Shuga’ Tofowomo.
Akiin Shuga was an exceptionally gifted musician, a revered performer, and a passionate advocate for creativity and inclusion. Stricken by polio at the age of five, he defied physical challenges to build an extraordinary career. As the Founder and Lead Vocalist of the iconic Shuga Band and Managing Director of the Shuga Limb Foundation, he inspired millions through his artistry, infectious energy, and his powerful, personal story of resilience and triumph over adversity, becoming a symbol of hope for many living with disabilities.
In a remarkable career spanning over two decades, Akiin Shuga redefined live performance in Nigeria. He led the Shuga Band to become one of the country’s most respected and sought-after acts. His signature sound, compelling showmanship, and unwavering commitment to excellence elevated the live music experience and earned him admiration across generations of fans, creatives, and corporate partners.
NECLive Convener, Ayeni Adekunle, expressed his condolences, noting that Akiin Shuga’s participation at the 2017 edition of NECLive (NECLive5), where he shared insights on the business and evolution of live music in Nigeria, reflected his deep belief in the power of collaboration, mentorship, and the collective advancement of the Nigerian entertainment industry. His legacy as a pioneer, mentor, and cultural icon will continue to inspire generations of artists and creatives.
While we join his family, friends, and the entire industry in mourning this great loss, we will forever recognise and celebrate the remarkable life he lived and the powerful body of work he left us with.
The complete lineup for NECLive 2025 has been unveiled, revealing an unprecedented gathering of Nigeria’s most influential creative industry leaders set to converge on the Landmark Event Centre on Friday, November 28 2025.
MultiChoice Nigeria CEO John Ugbe, X3M Ideas founder Steve Babaeko, and FilmHouse Group co-founder and Group CEO Kene Okwuosa headline a roster of over 40 industry titans who will lead conversations on “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise” at West Africa’s largest creative industry conference.
This year’s edition, organised by Nigerian Entertainment Today and Africa Creative Foundation, brings together an unparalleled mix of media executives, filmmakers, music leaders, tech innovators, government officials, and investment experts—all tasked with charting the future of Africa’s $4.2 billion creative economy.
“This lineup represents the full ecosystem of Nigeria’s creative economy,” said Ayeni Adekunle, NECLive Founder and Convener. “From the CEOs making multi-billion naira decisions to filmmakers breaking box office records, from the tech innovators building platforms to the traditional custodians preserving culture—everyone shaping our industry’s future will be in the room.”
All speakers and discussants at NECLive2025
John Ugbe, whose journey from MultiChoice help desk analyst in 1998 to CEO in 2018 embodies African excellence, will share insights on building creative infrastructure. Under his leadership, MultiChoice Nigeria launched three Africa Magic channels in local Nigerian languages, introduced GOtv for affordable access, created the MultiChoice Talent Factory, and established the prestigious AMVCA awards.
Steve Babaeko, the creative genius behind X3M Ideas—operating in seven countries from Lagos to London—brings his award-winning expertise. With multiple Cannes Lions, Loeries, and Cristal awards, and as a Visiting Fellow at Henley Business School (UK), Babaeko represents African advertising at its global pinnacle.
Kene Okwuosa, co-founder and Group CEO of FilmHouse Group, is a filmmaker and visionary leader who has expanded Nollywood’s reach, spotlighted African stories, and redefined cinema experiences in Nigeria. His leadership has positioned FilmHouse as one of Africa’s premier cinema operators and film distributors.
Chris Ihidero, CEO of PinPoint Media and founder of Lagos Film Academy, will address talent development. The filmmaker and former MTV Shuga producer has spent his career training the next generation through True Nollywood Stories and masterclasses that have shaped countless Nigerian storytellers.
Ojoma Ochai, Managing Director of Africa’s largest innovation centre, CcHUB, bridges technology and creative enterprise with unmatched expertise. Serving on the board of ₿trust (the Bitcoin development fund founded by Jay-Z and Jack Dorsey), chairing the African Tech and Creative Group, and sitting on UNESCO’s Global Expert Panel on cultural diversity since 2012, Ojoma’s insights into Africa’s creative-tech ecosystem are unparalleled.
Yinka Obebe, founder of Popcentral TV, brings expertise on AI and African creativity. The media entrepreneur who transformed an Instagram page into DStv Channel 189 is also co-founder of Mefa, a pioneering network of concert venues launching across Nigeria, and curator of the landmark “70 Years of Music in Nigeria” project.
Fisayo Fosudo, with 750,000+ YouTube subscribers and 110 million video views, will share insights on building sustainable creator businesses. The YouTube Black Voices 2022 honoree and TechPoint Tech Influencer of the Year makes technology and finance accessible to 1.5 million followers across Africa.
David Adeleke, founder and CEO of Communiqué—a media and intelligence company reaching over 140,000 creators, investors, and policymakers across 105 countries—brings his expertise as a strategist and storyteller shaping the future of Africa’s creative economy.
Nora Awolowo, at 26, made history as the youngest Nollywood producer to gross over ₦100 million at the box office with her 2025 debut feature “Red Circle.” The AMVCA-winning cinematographer who has worked with Netflix, FIFA, Guinness, and Sony represents a new generation of technically-skilled, business-savvy filmmakers.
Moses Babatope, Group CEO of The Nile Media Entertainment Group and member of the International Emmy Academy, oversees Nile Cinemas, Nile Entertainment, and Nile Motion Pictures. Recently appointed to the advisory committee for TIFF: The Market (launching September 2026), Babatope has been instrumental in shaping Nigeria’s box office landscape and bridging Nollywood with global markets.
James “Abinibi” Alabi, whose series “Life and Dirt” topped Prime Video charts in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, exemplifies purpose-driven African storytelling. The Best Director winner at the 2019 African Film Awards creates content that tackles social issues while achieving commercial success.
Chichi Nwoko, a visionary leader and Pan-Africanist with over 20 years in media and broadcast, has worked as Country Manager of Kwese Free Sports in Nigeria, Executive Producer of the CBS franchise “Kids Say The Darndest Things” in Nigeria, and one of the producers of “Lion Heart”—Netflix’s first West African original acquisition.
Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Director-General of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), brings regulatory expertise and global influence. As a voting member of the Golden Globe Awards, consultant to Berlin International Film Festival, and chair of the AMAA selection committee, Husseini is widely regarded as Nollywood’s foremost documentarist and authority.
Adekunle Adebiyi, Executive Director of Investments at MBO Capital Management, has deployed over ₦6 billion into Nigerian film, supporting 30+ productions now streaming on Netflix and Amazon Prime Video. With an MBA from Kellogg and an MA/MEng from Cambridge, plus 22+ years in private equity, Adebiyi represents the sophisticated investment capital Nollywood needs to scale globally.
Chidi Aneto-Okeke, founder and CEO of Groove Platforms (uduX), brokered the first strategic music partnership with Sony Music West Africa in 2012. With nearly two decades of building African digital music infrastructure and partnerships with Universal Music Group, Sony Music, and Warner Music, Aneto-Okeke ensures African artists access fair compensation and global distribution.
Dolapo Amusat, founder and CEO of WeTalkSound—West Africa’s largest youth-led creative network—has collaborated with Joeboy, Lojay, Victony, and Teni while delivering campaigns for EMPIRE and Sony Music. A Recording Academy (Grammys) member and former Google Product Marketing Manager who led Rema’s historic O2 concert YouTube livestream, Dolapo bridges corporate experience with creative entrepreneurship.
Mike Dada, founder of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA) launched in partnership with the African Union in 2014, champions Pan-African unity through music. His vision: using music to foster continental identity and promote Africa’s cultural heritage globally.
Audu Maikori, co-founder of Chocolate City Group and former CEO, launched the careers of M.I Abaga and Ice Prince. The British Council’s International Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year (2007) and African Awards for Entrepreneurship winner (2011) continues to mentor emerging entrepreneurs and advocate for social justice through creative enterprise.
Jide Taiwo, veteran Nigerian journalist and cultural writer, has spent most of his career documenting Nigerian pop culture across different eras. The former editor of Nigerian Entertainment Today has authored several books about music in Nigeria, making him an essential voice on the industry’s evolution.
Gaise Baba, Afro-fusion gospel artist and founder of ARAMANDA Festival, LightOut Initiative, and Lounge464 creative residency, will perform at the conference. His 2025 collaboration “No Turning Back II” with Lawrence Oyor went viral and has been submitted for consideration at the 2026 Grammy Awards.
Timi Dakolo, Nigerian singer and songwriter, returns to NECLive. The musician burst into the limelight after winning the first season of West African Idol in 2007 and has become a mentor for many in the industry, serving as a judge on singing competition shows, most notably The Voice Nigeria.
Bukunmi ‘KieKie’ Adeaga-Ilori, Forbes Africa’s Top Content Creator of 2024 and AMVCA Best Online Social Content Creator winner (2023), built a multimedia empire from viral skits. The Nollywood actress and founder of Accost Collections fashion brand demonstrates how creators can monetise influence while building sustainable businesses.
Colette Otusheso, CEO of Accelerate Media Group with 23+ years of experience, oversees the Accelerate Plus streaming platform, Accelerate Studios, and The Phoenix Project, which has trained over 12,000 young Nigerians. The former Paramount Africa Country Lead, who managed MTV Shuga and launched Africa Magic channels, is among MIPAD’s 100 Most Influential People of African Descent.
Yinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, manages marketing budgets exceeding ₦80 billion across seven markets. With 25+ years spanning journalism, telecommunications, and financial services, Ijabiyi has led FirstBank’s major rebranding efforts and the customer-focused ‘Giants’ initiative.
Moliehi Molekoa, Managing Director of South Africa’s Magna Carta Reputation Management Consultants—named “African Consultancy of the Year” by PRovoke Media—leads operations across 18 African countries. Managing brand reputation and crises for MTN Group, Standard Bank, Old Mutual Limited, and PepsiCo, Molekoa brings nearly 20 years of Pan-African strategic communications expertise.
Hammed Adebiyi, with over a decade building brand equity for The Macallan and Imperial Blue across Edrington, Pernod Ricard, and Guinness Nigeria, brings expertise in premium spirits and luxury positioning. His integrated marketing strategies have delivered consistent market share gains and solidified brand dominance in competitive African markets.
Qudus Onikeku, who has performed in over 60 countries and whose work appears in the National Gallery of Canada’s permanent collection, is CEO of the J. Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History. The choreographer and founder of Afropolis Festival blends Yoruba philosophy with contemporary dance, proving traditional African knowledge systems can drive global artistic innovation.
Yolanda Okereke, costume designer behind “House of Ga’a,” “Seven Doors,” and “Everybody Loves Jenifa,” is the founder of The Rani Company. The 2025 Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival award winner became the first African costume designer to host a masterclass at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC (2022).
Obi Asika, Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture, brings 30 years of experience building Nigeria’s creative ecosystem. The Nigerian Idol judge, Storm 360 founder, and Big Brother Nigeria producer co-founded Social Media Week Lagos and lectured at Harvard, Wharton, MIT, and London Business School. Inducted into the Afrobeats Hall of Fame (2022) and selected as Cannes Lions Music Jury member (2024), Asika sits on advisory boards, including the Smithsonian Museum of African Art.
Folu Storms—actor, broadcaster, media executive, and qualified barrister (UK & Nigeria)—founded F.S. Media, consulting for Tecno, YouTube, Heritage Bank, and Oando. The AMVCA winner, who starred in Red Circle and Crime and Justice, spent over a decade excelling across film, television, and communications with MTV, BET, and Paramount.
Seyitan Atigarin, Head of Entertainment and Culture Desk at Arise News Television, has covered the Oscars, Grammy Awards, MET Gala, and the Coronation of King Charles III at Westminster Abbey. The international correspondent with a Master’s in International Broadcast Journalism from Birmingham City University is also the founder of Abebi and The Good News Anchor.
Kolapo Olapoju, Editor of TheCable and DAME Awards winner, launched TheCable Fact-Check Desk (2021), Climate Cable, and TheCable DINA—Nigeria’s first disability-inclusive news app (2023), which won a Google News Innovation Challenge award. His investigative reporting exposed lead contamination and influenced the federal government’s VAT exemption for sanitary products.
Tomiwo Ojo, Head of Content at Black House Media, overseeing Netng, Neusroom, 234Star, and Orin, previously led content strategy at Technext. With Reuters and Google certifications in journalism, data analytics, and digital marketing, Tomiwo’s work spans politics, culture, sports, and technology.
Iretomiwa Akintunde-Johnson, Regional Manager at BHM, spearheads growth strategies and communications models across West Africa (Lagos & Accra). The lawyer and author manages day-to-day client leadership for Pan-African brands.
Njideka Akabogu Eke-Uche, Regional Manager for East Africa at ID Africa, drives communications for MultiChoice, Showmax, MTN, Heineken, The Macallan, and Betway. Recognised in Brand Communicator’s 35 under 35 Top Marketing Professionals (2022) and PR Society of Kenya’s top PR Practitioners (2024), she’s also Chief Consultant at BHM.
Legendary comedian Tee A returns for a record eighth time to host NECLive alongside award-winning TV personality Bolanle Olukanni. The AMVCA-nominated documentary filmmaker (God’s Wives) and founder of Olukanni Legacy Foundation joins Nigeria’s stand-up comedy pioneer to anchor a day of crucial industry conversations.
Moderating sessions will be Hero Daniels, Kolapo Olapoju, Seyitan Atigarin, and Tomiwo Ojo.
Event coordination is led by Henry Ekechukwu, CEO of award-winning HUCE VALERIS and NECLive’s longest-serving coordinator, who has curated campaigns for Netflix, USAID, TikTok, Apple, and the World Bank Group.
Since its inception in 2013, NECLive has addressed critical challenges, including infrastructure deficits, limited funding access, inadequate intellectual property protection, and weak distribution networks that continue to constrain growth despite Nigeria’s creative sector contributing approximately 2.3% to GDP (worth over $4.2 billion annually).
With Nollywood as the world’s second-largest film industry by volume and Afrobeats achieving global mainstream success, NECLive 2025 arrives at a pivotal moment. The conference aims to transform cultural momentum into sustainable economic power through policy advocacy, practical solutions, and strategic partnerships.
Over nine editions, NECLive has hosted more than 500 industry experts, attracted over 100,000 participants, reached audiences exceeding 100 million people across 50+ countries, and facilitated over 1,000 deals and partnerships.
NECLive 2025 will be held on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
