A renewed partnership between Hit FM, the organisers of the Calabar Entertainment Conference & Festival (CECF), and First Bank of Nigeria Limited will see the bank return as the festival’s Official Banking Partner for the second consecutive year.

For FirstBank, the continued collaboration reflects its commitment to Nigeria’s growing creative economy and its support for platforms that encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, investment, and sustainable economic development.

Celebrating its 10th edition, CECF has established itself as a major gathering for players across Nigeria’s creative and entertainment landscape. Policymakers, business leaders, investors, artists, media professionals, content creators, and young entrepreneurs are expected to converge at the festival to discuss emerging opportunities and the ideas shaping the future of Africa’s creative sector.

Speaking on the renewed partnership, the executive producer of the Calabar Entertainment Conference & Festival, and CEO, Hit FM, Patrick Ugbe, described FirstBank's continued support as a strong endorsement of the festival's vision.

"Having FirstBank return as our Official Banking Partner for the second consecutive year is both an honour and a vote of confidence in what we are building. Beyond sponsorship, this partnership reflects a shared belief that the creative industry is a powerful driver of economic development, job creation, youth empowerment, and national growth. We are excited to continue this journey with an institution whose legacy of excellence spans over 132 years."

As a Platinum Sponsor of the event, FirstBank’s support is anchored on First@Arts, the Bank’s flagship initiative dedicated to advancing the entire arts ecosystem in Africa. Through First@Arts, FirstBank provides strategic funding, visibility, and capacity-building support to artists, curators, galleries, festivals, and cultural institutions. The initiative is aimed at preserving African heritage, promoting creative enterprise, and positioning the arts as a key driver of economic growth and cultural diplomacy across the continent.

Commenting on the partnership, Olayinka Ijabiyi, Group Head, Marketing & Corporate Communications, FirstBank, said, "At FirstBank, we remain committed to enabling success and creating value for our customers and the communities we serve. Our continued partnership with the Calabar Entertainment Conference & Festival aligns with our strategic focus on supporting the creative economy by providing platforms that inspire innovation, encourage entrepreneurship, and unlock opportunities for sustainable growth. We are proud to once again partner with this important initiative and will continue to provide support for the creative arts ecosystem through First@Arts."

The two-day event will feature Keynote addresses, masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking sessions designed to strengthen collaboration across the creative value chain.

As Official Banking Partner, FirstBank will play a central role in enhancing the festival experience while reinforcing its reputation as a trusted financial institution committed to supporting innovation, enterprise, and national development.

The Calabar Entertainment Conference & Festival continues to position Cross River State as a leading destination for creative exchange, cultural tourism, and entertainment business in Africa, bringing together the brightest minds to shape the future of the industry.