- Safiu Kehinde
Nigeria’s banking industry giant, First Bank Limited, is set to sponsor the upcoming 9th edition of the Calabar Entertainment Conference (CEC).
This was announced statement issued by the organiser of the event and leading radio station in Cross River Satte, Hit FM.
As contained in the statement dated 7th of September 2025 and made available to NPO Reports on Wednesday, First Bank was announced as the official bank partners for the flagship youth engagement program in the Creative Sector.
In his remark, the executive producer and CEO of Hit FM Patrick Ugbe, said the creative sector is in dire need of intervention that facilitate capacity building, funding, distribution, and thought leadership as he expressed his delight with First Bank’s partnership.
“By coming on board as the Official Bank, FirstBank further demonstrates its role as a catalyst for growth, providing financial inclusion and fostering creativity among young Nigerians.
“We are thrilled to welcome FirstBank as the Official Bank of the Calabar Entertainment Conference.
“Their support not only validates the importance of the creative sector in driving national development but also provides a strong platform for youth to access resources, knowledge, and networks that will help transform their ideas into sustainable ventures.” Ugbe said.
He further noted that FirstBank’s partnership underscores the bank’s long-standing commitment to supporting youth empowerment, innovation, and entrepreneurship across diverse sectors.
This year’s event will hold on the 17th and 18th of October at Hogis Royale, in Calabar.
It is expected to bring together young talents, industry leaders, investors, and policymakers to explore opportunities, tackle challenges, and chart pathways for sustainable growth within Nigeria’s dynamic creative economy.
Also speaking on the partnership, Olayinka Ijabiyi, the Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank, stated, “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 drive to promote innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship as key drivers of Nigeria’s future.
“Through our First@Arts initiative, which is geared at consolidating support for the creative arts, we are leveraging platforms like the Calabar Entertainment Conference to enable our stakeholders to explore the wealth of opportunities that the creative industry has to offer.”
The two-day event will feature keynote addresses, masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to inspire and equip participants to maximize the opportunities in the creative industry.