FirstBank Partners Hit FM as Official Sponsor of Calabar Entertainment Conference
A Major Sponsorship for Nigeria’s Creative Sector
First Bank of Nigeria Limited has taken the spotlight as the official bank sponsor of the 2025 Calabar Entertainment Conference (CEC). The annual event has become a defining platform for Nigeria’s creative economy.
Now in its ninth year, the conference will hold on October 17 and 18 at Hogis Royale, Calabar. It is designed to bring together young talents, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers. Together, they will explore opportunities, address pressing challenges, and chart a path for sustainable growth.
Why the Conference Matters
Since its inception, the Calabar Entertainment Conference has served as a hub for innovation, dialogue, and collaboration. It bridges the gap between young creatives and stakeholders who shape Nigeria’s cultural and economic future.
Patrick Ugbe, CEO of Hit FM and Executive Producer of CEC, emphasized the urgency of this year’s theme.
“The creative sector has never been in more urgent need of interventions that drive capacity building, funding, distribution, and thought leadership,” he said.
He also praised FirstBank for supporting the initiative at a critical time. According to him, the bank’s involvement will expand financial inclusion and unlock creativity among Nigerian youth.
FirstBank’s Commitment to Creativity
For more than a century, FirstBank has played a central role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria. Its partnership with Hit FM on the Calabar Entertainment Conference reflects a continued commitment to empower young people and nurture talent.
Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at FirstBank, highlighted this passion.
“At FirstBank, we are passionate about supporting platforms that empower young people and nurture talent. Our partnership with CEC aligns with our drive to promote innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of Nigeria’s future,” he said.
He further pointed to the bank’s First@Arts initiative, created to strengthen support for the creative industry. By combining this initiative with its sponsorship of CEC, FirstBank is strategically opening more opportunities for young talents nationwide.
What to Expect at CEC 2025
The two-day conference will offer a dynamic mix of knowledge sharing and networking. Attendees can expect keynote addresses, panel discussions, masterclasses, and interactive sessions that place them at the center of the creative economy conversation.
Delegates will also interact with industry leaders, learn from professionals, and connect with investors seeking innovative ideas. In addition, the event will showcase policy discussions aimed at fostering growth in entertainment and culture.
Building the Future of the Creative Economy
With FirstBank’s sponsorship, the 2025 edition of CEC aims to set new standards for youth engagement in the creative sector. The collaboration between financial institutions and media platforms highlights the power of partnerships in strengthening Nigeria’s creative industry.
As the conference marks its ninth year, Calabar once again takes center stage. The event offers young people the tools, access, and inspiration they need to shape the future of Nigeria’s creative economy.
