Over the past eight years, Homecoming has established itself as a cultural convergence point that redefines youth identity across the continent and its diaspora. Founded by cultural curator Grace Ladoja in 2017, the annual multi-day event returns each year to Lagos in grand style. It seamlessly blends music, fashion, sport, and art—creating a hybrid space where collaboration thrives and new narratives are born.
Known for its electrifying concerts featuring top African and global acts, Homecoming also hosts an influential fashion pop-up. Past editions have featured exclusive collaborations between global streetwear giants—like Daily Paper and Off-White—and local labels such as Motherlan, Vivendii, and WAFFLESNCREAM, spotlighting homegrown talent on an international stage.
The 2025 edition raised the bar even higher, surpassing previous years in scale, diversity, and cultural impact. Here’s what stood out:
Homecoming Summit
The festival’s signature summit returned with bold, authentic conversations on the evolution of Africa’s creative landscape.
What’s Next for Nigeria’s Music Scene?
Moderated by Joey Akan, this panel featured Bizzle Osikoya, Tunde Balogun, Kimani Moore, and Lanre Masha. They discussed the current state of Nigerian music, the role of tech and global collaboration, and the importance of nurturing emerging talent.
Africa in Frames: Archiving Culture Through Film and Photography
Moderated by Eniafe Momodu, this session brought together Stephen Tayo, Gabriel Moses, and Fumbi Ogunbanwo. The conversation explored the synergy between photography and cinematography, and how both can serve as powerful tools for cultural preservation and storytelling.
Reimagining African Identity Through Contemporary Art
Hosted by Tiwa Adegbuyi, with panelists Oyindamola Faithful, Nifemi Marcus-Bello, Niyi Okeowo, and Ore Disu, this discussion reflected on how African artists are navigating identity and influence while working within an ever-evolving creative industry.
By Hand, By Heritage: How Dye Lab Is Redefining African Fashion
This panel spotlighted the Lagos-based brand Dye Lab, founded by Rukky Ladoja in 2021. Brand director Ozzy Etomi spoke on the label’s commitment to slow fashion, traditional dyeing techniques rooted in Yoruba culture, and its ethos of producing limited-edition pieces as a response to overconsumption.
Art Tours & Exhibitions
The festival’s art component featured guided tours of prominent Lagos galleries and studios. I joined the tour on one of the days and it was intriguing to explore Lagos in a bus with a group of art enthusiasts and creatives as we drove from the studios of Lemi Gharioku and Samson Bakare to the museum of J.K Randle and the Center for Contemporary Art (CCA).
HiFi & Live Performances
The 2025 Homecoming concert series drew huge crowds and big names. Afrobeats superstar Davido headlined, performing his latest album “5ive” live for the first time. Other standout performances included Deto Black, Lady Donli, Toyé, and Mav0.
Homecoming Retail Pop-Up
Hosted at the Wings Complex in Victoria Island, the retail experience gave attendees a chance to shop exclusive drops and engage directly with designers. The pop-up remains a vital part of Homecoming’s ecosystem—bridging fashion, streetwear, and cultural exchange.
The Street Style
As always, the street style at Homecoming was its own spectacle. The 2025 edition served as a visual diary of Lagos’ boldest and most expressive looks—layered jerseys with tailored trousers, beaded accessories paired with designer sneakers, and Ankara transformed into sleek, modern silhouettes. It was fashion as identity, and identity as statement.