U.S. Embassy Showcases Northern Nigeria at AFFEST 2026

The United States Embassy visited the Arewa Fashion and Food Festival (AFFEST) in Kaduna, a cultural initiative organized by Women Aware of Rights Initiative (WAR). This visit allowed U.S. representatives to engage with the festival's mission of promoting Northern Nigeria’s fashion, food, art, and heritage.

Since its inception in 2023, AFFEST has evolved into an international platform connecting Northern Nigeria’s creative industry with global audiences. The festival will be broadcast internationally in countries including the United States, United Kingdom, France, Senegal, Ghana, and the Republic of Benin.

The 2026 edition, themed “Rice & Rafter: One Arewa, Many Stories,” is set for November 6-7 and aims to celebrate the region's diversity. WAR reported significant growth in attendance, from 300 in 2023 to an expected 1,500 in 2026.

The U.S. Embassy's visit was seen as an opportunity to showcase Northern Nigeria's rich cultural narratives and creative talents, positioning AFFEST as a key platform for cultural exchange.