Saturday, June 6, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

PodFest Naija returns September, unites leading storytellers, creators

 

 

By Chinenye Anuforo

 

Nigeria’s premier podcast and storytelling festival, PodFest Naija, is set to return on September 25, 2026, with a gathering of leading storytellers, podcasters, creators, brands, and culture influencers at Harbour Point, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Organised by The Muvmnt Studio, the creative force behind Nigeria’s first podcast festival, the event aims to build on the success of its maiden edition by creating a platform for collaboration, innovation, and growth within Nigeria’s rapidly expanding storytelling ecosystem.

According to the organisers, the 2026 edition will feature a diverse lineup of influential voices shaping conversations and culture across Nigeria and beyond. Participants are expected to engage in discussions focused on the future of storytelling, changing audience behaviour, emerging technologies, content platforms, and the growing impact of authentic narratives.

Speaking on the significance of the festival, Curator of PodFest Naija and Chief Executive Officer of AT3 Resources – The Muvmnt Agency, Tosin Adefeko, said storytelling remains central to meaningful communication and cultural influence.

“Consumers have evolved into storytellers in their own right, shaping narratives, influencing culture, and driving conversations. Despite the remarkable growth of the ecosystem, many creators still operate in silos. PodFest Naija was created to bridge that gap and bring the community together,” Adefeko said.

He noted that the success of the inaugural edition demonstrated the growing relevance of storytelling as a tool for connection, influence, and impact.

“This year, we are bringing together an even broader and more influential community of voices to amplify consumer-led narratives, foster deeper connections, and strengthen the storytelling ecosystem,” he added.

The festival will feature specially curated stages hosted by notable personalities across finance, branding, culture, health, relationships, and public discourse. Among them are Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani, Olushola Olaleye, Ife Durosinmi-Etti, Aproko Doctor, Joro Olomofin, Tochukwu Macfoy (Dr Foy), Babajide Ogunsanwo, and Francesca Uriri.

Other speakers expected at the event include Grace Ofure, Ify Mogekwu, Abdulhafees Adelani, Bola Balogun, Rosemary Egabor-Afolahan, Adefunke Arowolo, Audu Maikori, Morenike Molehin, Tomike Adeoye, Anthony Wolve, William Benson, Gbemi Olateru Olagbegi, Audrey Abayomi, among others.

In addition to keynote sessions and panel discussions, the festival will host the Next Big Podcaster talent discovery initiative, designed to identify and support emerging podcasting talents across Nigeria.

A Spotify-led masterclass is also scheduled to provide creators with practical insights into building sustainable and impactful content platforms.

Organisers disclosed that an interactive exhibition arena will enable brands to showcase products and services, connect directly with attendees, and engage with one of Nigeria’s most vibrant creative communities.

PodFest Naija 2026 is supported by Eventful Nigeria, MTN, Fan Milk, Eve Essentials, UAC, and other leading corporate partners.

Industry stakeholders say the festival has continued to position itself as a key platform for advancing Nigeria’s podcasting, storytelling, and creator economy while providing opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration.