The 2026 edition of the Creative Africa Nexus Weekend (CANEX WKND) commenced at the Professor Wole Soyinka Arts Theatre in Iganmu, Lagos, and is set to culminate tonight with a major concert featuring some of the continent’s most prominent musical talents.
Among the headline acts are Nigerian artists Davido and Flavour, alongside Congolese star Fally Ipupa, and other performers including Cali-Ber Tha Grime, Sabrina Francis, and the DJ duo Wanni X Handi. This highly anticipated event aims to bring together artists from Africa and the Caribbean for an evening of dynamic live performances and cultural exchange.
Themed “One People, United in Culture, Creating for the World,” the four-day gathering aims to rejuvenate the Arts Theatre while fostering discussions about the creative economy across Africa. The opening day featured various workshops and training sessions, focusing on topics such as brand building for independent artists and sustainable business models in the performing arts.
Dignitaries attending the event include Vice-President Kassim Shettima, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and notable figures from various sectors, including Afreximbank President Dr. George Elombi and other influential leaders in culture and trade.
In his opening remarks, Shettima highlighted the vital role of the creative industry in driving economic growth and praised Afreximbank’s pledge of $2 billion to support Africa’s creative sectors by 2027. He drew parallels between the current event and the historic FESTAC ’77 festival, which also celebrated African culture.
With an array of performances and discussions scheduled, CANEX WKND 2026 aims not only to entertain but also to inspire collaboration and innovation within Africa’s cultural landscape.
