Hit FM, the foremost radio station in Cross River State and convener of the Calabar Entertainment Conference (CEC), has announced First Bank of Nigeria Limited as the Official Bank Partner for the 9th edition of its flagship creative industry event.
Since its inception in 2017, the Calabar Entertainment Conference has become a premier platform for youth engagement, capacity building, and innovation in Nigeria’s creative sector. According to Patrick Ugbe, Executive Producer of CEC and CEO of Hit FM, the industry has “never been in more urgent need of interventions that facilitate capacity building, funding, distribution, and thought leadership.”
Driving Creative Growth Through Partnership
This year’s conference will take place on October 17–18, 2025, at Hogis Royale in Calabar, Cross River State. It will gather young talents, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to discuss opportunities, address challenges, and map strategies for sustainable growth in Nigeria’s dynamic creative economy.
FirstBank’s partnership reaffirms its long-standing commitment to youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and financial inclusion. Ugbe emphasized that, “By coming on board as the Official Bank, FirstBank further demonstrates its role as a catalyst for growth, providing access to resources, networks, and creativity-driven opportunities for young Nigerians.”
FirstBank’s Ongoing Support for the Arts
Speaking on the collaboration, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, noted:
“At FirstBank, we are passionate about supporting platforms that empower young people and nurture talent. Our partnership with the Calabar Entertainment Conference aligns with our mission to promote innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of Nigeria’s future.”
Through initiatives like First@Arts, FirstBank continues to strengthen its support for the creative sector, enabling stakeholders to explore the wealth of opportunities available within Nigeria’s growing entertainment and arts industry.
What to Expect at CEC 2025
The two-day event promises an engaging lineup featuring:
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Keynote Addresses by industry leaders
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Masterclasses designed to sharpen creative and business skills
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Panel Discussions tackling pressing challenges in the sector
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Networking Sessions to foster partnerships and collaborations
With FirstBank’s sponsorship, the Calabar Entertainment Conference 2025 is set to become a transformative experience, empowering participants to turn ideas into sustainable ventures while spotlighting the creative industry as a driver of national development.
