FirstBank of Nigeria Limited has been announced as the official bank partner for the 2025 edition of the Calabar Entertainment Conference (CEC).
The organisers, Hit FM Calabar, confirmed the partnership in a statement, noting that the ninth edition of the event will hold on October 17 and 18 at Hogis Royale, Calabar, Cross River State.
CEC, which began in 2017, brings together young creatives, industry leaders, investors and policymakers to discuss opportunities and challenges in Nigeria’s creative economy.
This year’s edition will feature keynote addresses, panel discussions, masterclasses and networking sessions.
Executive producer of the conference and CEO of Hit FM, Patrick Ugbe, said the collaboration with FirstBank demonstrates the importance of financial support for the creative sector.
“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,” Mr Ugbe said.
Acting group head, marketing and corporate communications at FirstBank, Olayinka Ijabiyi, said the partnership aligns with the bank’s commitment to youth empowerment.
“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,” Ijabiyi stated.
The bank added that it will leverage its First@Arts initiative to extend support for the creative sector through the platform.
