Year 2023 Events That Are Talk Of The Town In Nigeria So Far

The year 2023 has been the one in which the Nigerian culture took the world by storm, leaving its mark across various sectors. 

From groundbreaking films like ‘The Black Book,’ setting new standards for African cinema, to unforgettable fashion moments like Tems’ show-stopping Oscars outfit that reverberated in the fashion community, and star-studded events such as The Macallan x ATAFO fashion showcase, 2023 has witnessed the ascendancy of stars and defining moments in the entertainment realm.

We’ve carefully curated a list of events that have shaped the landscape, making a significant impact while asserting their relevance. Here are the standout events that have defined the entertainment space in 2023

1. The AMVCA

The Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) is undeniably the biggest film award show in Africa. This year, the highlights were innumerable. From the crowning of Tobi Bakre – acclaimed by netizens as the thriller king, as the actor of the year – to the recognition of Kunle Afolayan’s ‘Anikulapo’ as the Best Film. Nigerian filmmakers and actors received well-deserved honours for their significant contributions to the African film industry.

Beyond the accolades for Nollywood stars, the AMVCAs also provided a spotlight for budding African designers, offering them an invaluable opportunity and platform to showcase their designs to the industry’s finest. The awards simply delivered an unforgettable celebration of African talent and creativity.

2. The ATAFO X The Macallan Showcase

ATAFO’s Spring/Summer ‘24 showcase was as star-studded as star-studded could get. From the appearance of top Nollywood veterans like RMD to the appearance of star actors like Alex Ekubo, Adesua Etomi, Lillian Afegbai and more. The showcase was one of the most iconic events of the year and the perfect way to kickstart Lagos Fashion Week.

The show, held at the Eko Convention Centre and sponsored by the world-renowned Scotch whisky brand, The Macallan, showcased over 50 pieces that redefined traditional and civil wear. From 100 front-row seats to musical performances, it was indeed an experience.

3. Lagos Fashion Week

Every year, Lagos transforms into a vibrant hub of fashion and innovation as hundreds of designers converge for Lagos Fashion Week, showcasing their latest creations on the runway.

Aside from the iconic nature of getting front-row seats to some of the best fashion talents in Africa, the street style for this edition was next to none. From innovative baclava’s to uniquely structured outfits that matched the theme of the showcase “Standing the Test of Time,” it was a blast.

4. Headies

It was a historic moment at the 2023 Headies, from Rema’s iconic speech encouraging Nigerian artistes to support African platforms to Asake’s incredible feat where he became the first Nigerian artiste to win the Next Rated Award and Album of the Year for his 2022 record, ‘Mr Money with the Vibe.’ 

Odumodublvck also earned two awards at his first Headies performance, and Blaqbonez became the centre of attention as his choice of hairstyle put him atop conversations. Overall, it was a night that celebrated creative excellence and stood out for its fashion moments, especially that of its host, Osas Ighodaro.

5. Miss Universe 2023

Mitchel Ihueze once again represented Nigeria at an international pageant. This time, it was not in her capacity as Miss Nigeria in 2017 but as Miss Universe, where she merged elements from Queen Moremi, Queen Idia and Amina, Queen of Zazzau, to create her national costume for the semi-finals.

Although Nicaragua’s Sheynnis Palacios won the competition, Mitchel still got to showcase the beauty of Nigerian culture during her showcase.

6. Barbie Nigerian Premiere

It was Barbie season in August. As a result, the unofficial colour code for the month was ‘Barbie Pink.’ For the Nigerian premiere of the live-action film, Nigerian stars all graced FilmOne’s carpet in their interpretation of the theme, with stand-out outfits from top fashion personalities like Derin From Isale Eko, Nonye Udeogu, Hermes Iyele and more.

6. Nigerian Idol

Like every season, thousands of contestants come together to put their vocals to the test as they compete for the ultimate prize. This year, the competition was fierce but with a twist. There was an opportunity to crown a woman the winner of the season, the first since the show came back to our screens. 

However, week after week, Victory Gbakara, Nigerian Idol Season 8 Winner, brought unrivalled pizzaz to the stage with a unique charm and presence that led him to win the show. For the first time in a while, viewers could barely tell the winner, especially because Precious Mac comes from a family of performers – famous for their performances in the music competition sphere.

7. Ojude Oba

While Muslims were celebrating the annual Eid-Al-Kabir festival, natives of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, were celebrating their annual festival, Ojude Oba, a festival that celebrates and pays respect to the Awujale of Ijebuland. This year, the Ijebu did it in style with a variety of high-end traditional materials on display and accessories that showcased the beauty of Yoruba culture. It was gorgeous!

We were all obsessed with how beautiful the cultural event was this year.

8. MET Gala

Tems was the star of the show at the 2023 MET Gala as she employed the expertise of Hong Kong-born designer Robert Wun, her long-time stylist Dunsin Wright, and fashion archivist and image researcher Kim Russell for her dress. 

In honour of Karl Lagerfeld, she referenced his Spring ‘92 Chanel Couture, a collection whose influence went beyond the runway to influence pop culture. 

This moment alone made the MET Gala one of the best events of 2023.

9. Cannes Festival

The Cannes Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world that previews movies across all genres. For the first time since its inception in September 1946, the film festival invited a Nigerian actor.

Chika Ike showed up for its opening night looking as glamorous as ever as she wore a metallic green dress designed by Kud Collections, the Nigerian designer behind some of the show-stopping outfits we saw at Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story African premiere, including dresses worn by Mercy Eke and Lilian Afegbai. The overall look was styled by Swanky Jerry.

What’s not to love about 2023?!