On behalf of the Government and good people of Kano State, I am delighted to announce the maiden edition of KANFEST (Kalankuwa) a festival of arts and culture that will celebrate the rich heritage, creativity, and identity of our people.
The festival will take place from October 25th to 27th, 2025, at the Kano Trade Fair Complex, through Kano State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, under the coordination of His Excellency, the Deputy Governor of Kano State, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam. This historic event promises to be a melting pot of tradition and creativity, bringing together artists, cultural groups, investors, and visitors from across Nigeria and around the world.
KANFEST (Kalankuwa) is themed “Preserving the Past, Inspiring the Future.” It represents our government’s firm commitment to preserving our cultural values, promoting creative innovation, and building bridges between the past and the future. Through this festival, we aim to make culture a tool for peace, unity, tourism, and economic growth.
The people of Kano are proud custodians of history and during these three days, history will come alive in Kano. Guests will have the unique opportunity to see, taste, and feel Kano’s soil, and to experience our finest cultural traditions on one stage.
Highlights of the festival will include:
Wrestling the Old Kano Way, showcasing our traditional strength and valor.
Majema Tanning Artistry Revealed, celebrating our global reputation for leather craft.
Dukawa Leather Craftsmanship, where innovation meets tradition.
All Tribes, One Stage, reflecting our unity in diversity.
KANFEST is a festival beyond entertainment it is a cultural rebirth. It is about honouring our heritage and empowering the future, because culture is our identity, and it must be celebrated.
Through this festival, we are reviving our heritage, creating opportunities for cultural industries, and attracting new investments to Kano truly, from festival to foreign direct investment.
As we open our doors to the world, I call on everyone within and outside Kano to join us in this cultural movement. Let us show the world that Kano remains the cradle of Hausa civilization, a land of proud people and proud heritage, where culture connects communities and inspires tomorrow.
Indeed, the world is coming to Kano through culture.
Signed:
Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya
Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs
Kano State
22nd October, 2025
