Stanbic IBTC Launches 2025 FUZE Art Festival 4.0, Sets Stage for a Bigger Creative Movement
Stanbic IBTC unveiled the 2025 edition of its FUZE Art, Fashion, Music and Tech Festival—tagged FUZE 4.0—with a renewed commitment to nurturing Nigerian youth talent and expanding opportunities across the country’s creative economy.
The event will be held on Saturday, 20 December 2025, at Tafawa Balewa Square. This year’s festival introduces an all-new outdoor format, offering guests an open-air experience with expanded activities, installations, and immersive attractions.
Speaking at the launch, the Chief Executive of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, Olumide Oyetan, said the FUZE initiative has grown beyond entertainment, evolving into a national platform for skill development and youth empowerment.
According to him, the 2025 edition will further strengthen the bank’s vision to “create an environment where every young Nigerian can grow”.
“FUZE has always been about more than entertainment. It is a movement that celebrates diversity—where each talent represents a unique unit of creativity. Our goal is to empower young people to improve their craft and connect them to global opportunities. We believe in Nigerian youth and their ability to build a great nation,” Oyetan said.
He added that Stanbic IBTC remains committed to helping people “end well”, both creatively and financially, by offering platforms that support long-term personal development.
Past winners of the FUZE Talent Show also took the stage to encourage new participants.
2023 dance category winner Kalu Uche recalled how the competition transformed his perspective and strengthened his determination.
“The journey brought out the hustle in me. It pushed me years ago, and I’m grateful for every single task I was given,” he said.
He credited his roommate and father as his greatest supporters.
Music category winner Emmanuel Elijah said he joined the competition reluctantly but ended up experiencing one of his most rewarding artistic journeys.
“Something told me to try. God willing, the journey was smooth. It’s a competition, yes, but I enjoyed every moment. My advice to upcoming contestants is simple: believe in yourself,” he said.
Other winners also acknowledged the strong support they received from family members throughout the contest.
Vincent and Kalu emphasised the importance of staying focused and “keeping your head straight” to thrive.
Uche added that the FUZE platform has expanded his visibility, boosting his confidence to pursue global opportunities.
“Now that all eyes are on me, I’m working even harder to build a global presence,” he said.
FUZE judge Don Flexx praised the initiative for uncovering raw talent across Nigeria.
“The Stanbic IBTC talent show consistently brings out great talents and strengthens the brand. It is doing a whole lot for the creative space,” he said.
Award-winning singer Korede Bello, who also featured at the event, stressed the importance of financial literacy and sustainability in the creative industry.
“Everyone wants to live well and retire well. As we pursue our dreams, sustainability is key. I urge Stanbic IBTC to continue amplifying financial education in this space,” he said.
He encouraged young creatives to innovate and prioritise ideas that can impact more people rather than duplicating what already exists.
“Take advantage of what you have and utilise it well,” he added.
The FUZE Festival 4.0 is expected to feature a wider range of activities, including live performances, exhibitions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at shaping the next generation of Nigerian creative leaders.