Femi Adebayo joins NECLive 2026 speaker lineup

The Nigerian entertainment industry is set to bring together some of its leading creative minds as actor and filmmaker Femi Adebayo joins the speaker lineup for the 2026 Nigerian Entertainment Conference (NECLive). Other notable names announced include music executive Bizzle Osikoya and filmmaker Kayode Kasum.
The announcement, reported by TheCable Lifestyle on October 28, 2026, highlights the growing importance of conversations around Nigeria's creative economy and the opportunities available to entertainment professionals.
The conference will hold on November 12, 2026, at Alliance Française de Lagos, Ikoyi, under the theme "Home Advantage: Transforming Local Demand into Global Power."

Who is on the NECLive 2026 lineup?

The newly announced personalities represent different areas of Nigeria's entertainment industry.
Femi Adebayo is an award-winning actor, producer and director known for his contributions to Nollywood. He is also the filmmaker behind popular productions such as Jagun Jagun and Seven Doors. His experience in film production and storytelling makes him an important voice in discussions about the growth of Nigerian cinema.
Bizzle Osikoya, a music executive and co-founder of The Plug, brings experience in artist management, talent development and the business side of the Nigerian music industry. His work has contributed to the growth of several entertainment talents and music platforms.
Kayode Kasum is another prominent filmmaker on the lineup. He has directed and produced several Nigerian films, including Ajosepo, Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story and Soole.
Other personalities expected at the conference include Genoveva Umeh, Chimezie Imo, Efa Iwara, Uzoamaka Power, Dika Ofoma, DJ Obi, Godwin Tom and Gbemi Olateru-Olagbegi.
Comedian Tee A will also return as the conference host.

Why creators should pay attention

NECLive 2026 offers an opportunity for filmmakers, musicians, content creators, entrepreneurs and other entertainment professionals to learn from people with practical industry experience.
For upcoming creators, the conference could provide valuable insights into building sustainable careers, attracting investment, developing audiences and turning creative ideas into profitable businesses.
The theme, "Home Advantage: Transforming Local Demand into Global Power", is particularly relevant because Nigerian entertainment already enjoys considerable attention locally and internationally.
However, having a large audience does not automatically translate into financial success for creators. Issues such as monetisation, intellectual property ownership, funding and distribution remain important challenges.
The conference is expected to explore how Nigerian entertainment businesses can generate more value from their domestic audiences while expanding their international influence.

What NECLive usually covers

Since its introduction in 2013, the Nigerian Entertainment Conference has provided a platform for discussions about the opportunities and challenges facing Nigeria's entertainment industry.
Its activities typically cover music, film, television, fashion, media, technology, business development and the creative economy.
The conference also encourages networking, knowledge sharing, partnerships and conversations about policies that can improve the industry.
Previous editions have featured industry professionals, entrepreneurs, policymakers and creative talents who share their experiences and discuss possible solutions to challenges affecting the sector.
For anyone interested in Nigeria's entertainment industry, NECLive 2026 presents an opportunity to understand how local creativity can translate into stronger businesses and international opportunities.
The major takeaway is simple: Nigeria has the creative talent and audience. The next challenge is building sustainable businesses that allow creators to earn more, retain ownership of their work and compete globally.