"AKWA MUSIC FESTIVAL" SET FOR 6TH EDITION, TO DRIVE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS THROUGH MUSIC

 

The Akwa Music Festival has officially been unveiled for its 6th edition,with organisers announcing plans to use music as a powerful tool for HIV/AIDS awareness,prevention advocacy, and the promotion of healthy living among young people.

The festival was unveiled during a press briefing held on Monday, July 27, 2026, at Wattbridge Hotel, Uyo,where members of the organising committee briefed media practitioners on preparations for the event. In his welcome remarks, the Head of Media, Mr. Isaac Nice, said the meeting was convened to seek the support and partnership of the media in ensuring the success of the festival.

Presenting the project overview,the Festival Manager, Mr. Nelson NseAbasi announced that Akwa Music Festival 2026 is scheduled to hold on Sunday, November 29, 2026, at Ibom Plaza, Uyo, beginning at 4pm.

According to him, the festival has evolved beyond being a music concert into a strategic platform for discovering and showcasing emerging talents, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Akwa Ibom State, promoting the creative economy,and using entertainment as a vehicle for social development.

He explained that the 2026 edition is themed "Music for Life," with a special focus on creating awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention,combating the stigma associated with the disease, and encouraging healthy lifestyles through the universal language of music.

Mr. NseAbasi disclosed that the festival will feature live performances by established and emerging artistes,talent showcases, creative exhibitions, and public awareness campaigns. He added that the event is designed to provide young people with opportunities to connect with industry professionals and access career development pathways within the entertainment sector.

The Festival Manager also called on government agencies, corporate organisations, development partners, the media, and the general public to partner with the organising committee in delivering a successful event. He noted that such collaborations would strengthen the creative industry while driving positive social impact through entertainment.

During the interactive session, the Festival Director, Mr. Cyril Udotuk, responded to questions from journalists on logistics, artiste participation, sponsorship opportunities, and the festival's HIV/AIDS awareness campaign strategy ahead of the November event.

In his closing remarks, Mr. NseAbasi appreciated members of the media for their continued support and urged journalists to help amplify the message of HIV/AIDS awareness, youth empowerment, and positive social change as preparations gather momentum for the 6th edition of Akwa Music Festival.

The Akwa Music Festival has grown into one of Akwa Ibom State's leading entertainment and talent development platforms, bringing together artistes, creatives, industry stakeholders, and music enthusiasts from across the state and beyond.

© Moses Umoh

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