Abia State Ministry of Arts, Culture & Creative Economy Clarifies Misconceptions Surrounding Abia Comedy Fest, Reaffirms Support for Creative Industry

The Abia State Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy has debunked circulating claims and criticisms on social media concerning the forthcoming Abia Comedy Fest, scheduled for December 12, 2025 at the Michael Okpara Auditorium, Umuahia.

In a formal statement, the Ministry expressed displeasure over what it described as negative and unfounded allegations aimed at discrediting the highly anticipated entertainment event. To dispel misinformation and provide clarity, the Ministry outlined its position and involvement in the project.

According to the statement, the Abia Comedy Fest is a joint initiative between the Abia State Government and Enyioha Global Promotions, a reputable private entertainment outfit, and not solely a government-owned event. The Ministry explained that its participation is strictly supportive and supervisory in line with its mandate to promote arts, culture, tourism, and the creative economy in the state.

The Ministry emphasized that the collaboration is part of the present administration’s ongoing efforts to uplift the creative industry, ensure high event standards, and position Abia as a competitive cultural and entertainment destination.

Addressing claims that Abia-born entertainers were excluded, the Ministry clarified that several homegrown talents are on the performance lineup, including MC Organic, Asanwa Merit, Funny Urch, Don Wise, and P-Square, whose marital ties connect him to Abia. It noted that organizers made deliberate efforts to balance local representation with other top-performing acts, in line with the state’s commitment to promoting local content.

The Ministry also noted that groups such as the Abia Entertainers Frontiers Association and Abia Entertainers Forum, which have raised objections online, are yet to identify or register officially with the Ministry, a compulsory administrative requirement for all industry associations, unions, and guilds for effective planning and sector development. Meanwhile, other entertainment and hospitality stakeholders, including the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Hotel Owners Association, Hotel Proprietors Association, and Travelers Agency of Nigeria, have duly complied.

Stressing the importance of proper registration, the Ministry explained that the process is not punitive but essential for collaboration, coordination, and inclusion in government programmes and benefits.

Reaffirming the administration’s priorities, the Ministry highlighted Governor Alex Otti’s unwavering commitment to nurturing talents, supporting entertainment-driven initiatives, and strengthening Abia’s creative economy to attract tourism and continental recognition.

The statement urged residents, entertainers, and stakeholders to dismiss misleading narratives and continue supporting programmes aimed at promoting Abia’s identity and economic growth.

The clarification was signed by:

Hon. Matthew Ekwuribe

Honourable Commissioner,

Ministry of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Abia State