MTN Nigeria joins NECLive 2025 to power Africa’s creative enterprise

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 reinforces leadership role in Nigeria’s creative industry with NECLive 2025 sponsorship

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. 

The Macallan joins NECLive 2025 as sponsor to champion African creativity and artistry

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.

Ayo Maff confirmed as panellist for NECLive 2025

Ayo Maff

Since the release of his single “Jama Jama” in 2023 and “7 Days” that same year, Ayo Maff has become one of Africa’s fastest rising acts and a household name. He started 2024 with “Dealer” featuring Fireboy DML, which saw him gain over 1.1 million monthly listeners on Spotify and over 12.5K daily listeners on Apple Music.

Right now, Ayo Maff has millions of monthly listeners across all streaming platforms, cementing his place as one of the breakout artistes in recent years with a growing stature in the industry and a determination to do more.

Join AYO MAFF at NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025, at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” You can still register now: www.nec.ng

Deji Awokoya confirmed as panellist for NECLive 2025

Deji Awokoya

As a graduate of Cranfield School of Management, he began his career at SONY Europe as a Market Analyst for the UK market. He is also a seasoned media executive with over 15 years of experience in radio and broadcast management across Nigeria and the UK. Over the years, he has worked with leading global brands, including NPD, Walt Disney, and Dunnhumby—a renowned customer data science company serving Tesco worldwide.

Today, Deji serves as Group General Manager/COO at Megalectrics Limited, leading a network of 10 radio stations, which includes notable station brands like THE BEAT FM, CLASSIC FM, NAIJA FM, and LAGOS TALKS, and managing a team of over 200 professionals. driving innovation and growth in the African and UK media landscape.

Join DEJI AWOKOYA for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28, 2025, at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng

Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade confirmed as Panellist for NECLive 2025

Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade

Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade is a distinguished Nigerian executive and marketing communications expert, currently serving as the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR). His appointment positions him at the forefront of developing Nigeria’s burgeoning tourism and hospitality sectors, a critical component of the nation’s creative economy.

Prior to his public service role, Dr. Fagade established himself as a titan in the private sector as the founder and Managing Director of Sodium Brand Solutions in 2009. Under his leadership, Sodium became a major player in Nigeria’s marketing industry, managing high-profile campaigns for multinational corporations like Coca-Cola and MTN. His expertise spans experiential marketing, brand strategy, and creative communication, built on a career that began in 1999.

Beyond his corporate achievements, Dr. Fagade is a dedicated community leader, having founded the Abisoye Fagade Foundation to tackle youth unemployment through skills training. He also holds the respected traditional title of Aare Asoju Oba of Ara Kingdom. Through his diverse roles, Dr. Fagade continues to bridge the gap between corporate strategy, cultural promotion, and national development.

So Join, Aare (Dr.) Abisoye Fagade for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng

NECLive 2025 registration closes this week

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.

Bolanle Olukanni confirmed as host for NEClive 2025

Bolanle Olukanni

Bolanle is a renowned television host and filmmaker, recognized for her work on popular shows such as Project Fame West Africa, The Juice, and Moments with Mo. She is well-respected for her creativity, interview style, and social impact advocacy which have made her one of Africa’s most trusted media voices.

Having previously hosted NECLive in 2021 and 2022, Bolanle will co-host this edition of the conference alongside comedy legend Tee A. She will bring her exceptional audience engagement skills and industry expertise to guide conversations across the conference’s multi-segment format, including keynotes, panel discussions, live performances, Q&As, workshops and innovation showcases.

So Join Bolanle Olukanni for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng

Tee A confirmed as host for NECLive 2025

TEE-A

Tee A, is a leading figure in Nigerian entertainment as a comedian, master of ceremonies, and producer for television and digital content. He is considered one of the pioneers of stand-up comedy in Nigeria and is well-regarded for his clean, corporate-friendly style.

Tee A holds several firsts to his name. He was the first comedian in Nigeria to sell out a one-man stand-up comedy concert with his show “Tee-A, Live ‘n Naked,” both in Nigeria and in London. He also broke new ground as the first Nigerian comedian to perform at London’s Hackney Empire Theatre in 2001 and was the first to record and release a Nigerian comedy album.
In addition to his work on stage, Tee A has made a major impact in television and media production. He is the creator and host of the popular talk and variety show Tymeout With Tee A, and the founder of First Class Entertainment, a multimedia and TV production company that has contributed to shaping the industry.

Tee A is set to return as host of NECLive 2025 for a record eighth time, making him the most experienced host in the history of the event.

So Join Tee A for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng

Gaise Baba confirmed to perform at NECLive 2025

Gaise Baba

Gaise Baba is a Nigerian Afro-gospel artist, entrepreneur, and cultural architect known for blending contemporary music genres like hip-hop, soul, and Afro-pop with faith-driven, socially conscious lyrics. Since the release of his self-titled debut album Gaise Baba in 2011, which featured the breakout single Follow Follow, he has continued to evolve as both a musician and a cultural voice. His 2020 EP Logo and 2022 album A Decade After further established his signature style—one that fuses Yoruba, English, and Pidgin in a seamless, message-driven soundscape. In 2025, his collaboration with Lawrence Oyor on No Turning Back II went viral, amplifying his reach.

Beyond his music, Gaise Baba is recognized as a cultural influencer, using his art to shape values and inspire change. He is the founder of ARAMANDA, an Afro-Urban music and arts festival that celebrates alternative Christian creativity and expression. Through this platform and others, he positions himself not just as an entertainer but as a builder of cultural movements rooted in purpose and faith.

His impact also extends into social entrepreneurship. Gaise Baba launched the LightOut Initiative, which tours high schools across Nigeria to mentor and inspire students through music and storytelling. He is also the host of The Black Flame Podcast, where he holds bold, thought-provoking conversations, and the founder of Lounge464, a creative residency space that brings his music, message, and community into deeper engagement.

So join Gaise Baba at NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng