Caustival 2026 to Spotlight Democracy, Civic Participation Ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 Elections

By Iyojo Ameh

Organisers of Caustival 2026 have announced plans for a two-day social justice festival aimed at deepening civic engagement, promoting information integrity, and encouraging democratic participation ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections.

Scheduled to hold in Abuja from June 12 to 13, the festival will bring together artists, filmmakers, civic leaders, policy advocates, and young Nigerians under the theme, “WE DECIDE.

According to the organisers, the event seeks to create a platform where culture, storytelling, public dialogue, and civic action converge to address issues shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.

The festival comes at a time when concerns over misinformation, voter apathy, declining public trust in political institutions, and the underrepresentation of women and young people continue to dominate discussions on democratic governance.

Organisers said the initiative will explore how citizens’ everyday decisions, media consumption habits, cultural narratives, and community engagement influence democratic outcomes long before election day.

Speaking on the objectives of the gathering, the organisers noted that the festival is designed to encourage Nigerians to critically examine the systems and narratives shaping political participation while fostering greater understanding of governance and accountability.

Participants will engage in discussions on why elections matter, how government policies affect daily life, the dangers of disinformation, and the role citizens can play in shaping political outcomes beyond the ballot box.

The event will also focus on increasing the visibility and participation of women and young people in civic and political spaces, while highlighting the role of culture and storytelling as tools for social change.

Art, Film and Civic Dialogue

A major highlight of the festival will be an exhibition featuring works by 20 artists exploring themes of voting, identity, governance, public decision-making, and political participation.

Visitors will experience interactive installations focused on voter turnout, immersive voting-themed exhibits, and portrait displays documenting the experiences of first-time voters and members of historically underrepresented communities.

The festival will also feature panel conversations and public dialogues led by notable civic and cultural figures, including Salma Ja’eh, Fakhriyyah Hashim, Nabilah Usman, Solape Sonuga, Morenikeji Sanni, Anthony Azekwoh, Basil Abia, Nnenna Eze, Shade Mary-Ann Olaoye, Doreen Nwoke, and Ikenna Obiora-Madu.

Film screenings and fireside conversations will further examine key democratic issues through storytelling. Featured productions include Softie, which explores political participation and leadership; Double Minority; The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos, which examines governance and survival beyond election cycles; and When Nigeria Happens, which reflects on civic activism and electoral engagement.

Strengthening Democratic Participation
Organisers said the festival is intended to move citizens from awareness to action by fostering sustained public conversations on accountability, democratic responsibility, and civic participation ahead of the 2027 polls.

The event will conclude with a live performance showcase featuring acclaimed musicians and spoken-word artists, including Lady Donli, Waye, Tay Iwar and Dre foryoursoul.

Organisers described the closing performances as a fusion of art, music and civic reflection aimed at inspiring greater citizen participation and collective responsibility in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Caustival 2026 will hold in Abuja on June 12 and 13. Admission is free, but attendance is subject to prior registration through the festival’s official website, caustival.com

Media contacts for the event are Christina Akintoye and Oiza Alonge of Gatefield.