By; BASHIR BELLO DOLARS, Abuja The Platform for Cooperation on Mixed Migration (PCMM) has announced plans for the Cultural Hangout Festiv
By; BASHIR BELLO DOLARS, Abuja
The Platform for Cooperation on Mixed Migration (PCMM) has announced plans for the Cultural Hangout Festival (CHF) 2025, a three-city celebration highlighting the contributions and rights of migrants.
The festival will be held in Abuja from December 12 to 14, with subsequent editions in London and Manchester, United Kingdom.
Themed, “Honouring the Contributions of Migrants and Respecting Their Rights,” the Abuja event would bring together migrants, policy leaders, cultural icons, and development partners.
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Cultural Hangout Festival, Aihawu Victor, said in a statement, that the event would feature music, dance, art, storytelling, trade exhibitions, and policy dialogue, all aimed at promoting inclusion, cultural exchange, and economic opportunities.
According to him, the CHF aligns with the United Nations Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration (GCM), supporting objectives to empower migrants, eliminate discrimination, and create conditions for their full contribution to sustainable development.
One of the highlights would be the Migrant Excellence Awards Night, a red-carpet ceremony recognising outstanding migrants who have significantly contributed to Nigerian society and beyond, he said.
Aihawu clarified that Abuja was chosen in recognition of Nigeria’s leadership role in migration governance, especially as the country currently chairs the Rabat Process, an Africa-Europe dialogue platform on migration and development.
“Cultural Hangout Festival is more than an event, it’s a declaration that migration enriches societies.
“We are here to challenge negative narratives, foster inclusion, and celebrate the people who carry cultures across borders,” said Aihawu.
The Abuja edition builds on the success of the inaugural CHF London held in May 2025 in commemoration of Africa Day, which was endorsed by the African Union and attended by Africans in the Diaspora and lovers of African culture.
Already, some federal ministries are showing interest in the cultural hangout considering its diplomatic advantage, cultural integration and economic importance to the participating countries especially Nigeria.
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