Celebrated filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, entertainment executive Mike Dada, theatre producer and investment banker Joseph Edgar, alongside creative industry advocate Mary Ephraim-Egbas, have been confirmed as panellists at the upcoming QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit.
The announcement was made on Monday by Mighty Media Plus Network Limited, publishers of the online news platform QEDNG.
With the theme “Financing as Catalyst for a Thriving Creative Economy,” the summit will explore innovative strategies for funding and expanding Nigeria’s creative sector. It will convene key players across the industry, including policymakers, investors, and emerging creatives.
Veteran journalist, cultural promoter, and former Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Steve Ayorinde, will moderate the panel. Ayorinde, who also previously served as Commissioner for Information and Strategy, brings deep insight into Nigeria’s creative landscape, having reported on and worked closely with the industry over the years.
Earlier, the organisers had announced Udeme Ufot, Group Managing Director of SO&U, as chairman of the event, while Dr. Nkiru Balonwu, founder of The Africa Soft Power Group, will deliver the keynote address.
Kunle Afolayan, regarded as one of Africa’s most influential filmmakers, is known for works such as The Figurine, October 1, Citation, and AnÃkúlápó. Afolayan is the founder of KAP Hub, home to a production studio, cinema, film academy, and post-production facilities. His KAP Film Village and Resort in Oyo State serves as a hub for filmmaking, tourism, and cultural exchange. He remains committed to telling authentic African stories and nurturing future filmmakers.
Mike Dada is the founder and president of the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), a prestigious platform celebrating the continent’s musical excellence. Under his leadership, AFRIMA—organised in partnership with the African Union—has become a global symbol of African music and culture. Dada also leads PRM Africa, a communications and events company.
Popularly known as The Duke of Shomolu, Joseph Edgar is an investment banker turned theatre producer. His portfolio includes powerful stage productions like Aremu, Emotan, Bianca, and Our Duke Has Gone Mad Again. Edgar’s work highlights the commercial potential of cultural storytelling and its value in business and investment.
Mary Ephraim-Egbas, CEO of Okhma Global, is a strategic communications expert and seasoned event producer. She is also president of Homelands Film and founder of the Africa Film Finance Forum (AFFF), an initiative connecting African filmmakers with investors. As Executive Director of SERAS Africa CSR/Sustainability Awards, she continues to champion sustainable creativity and corporate impact across the continent.
Speaking on the line-up, Olumide Iyanda, CEO of Mighty Media Plus Network Limited and convener of the summit, said the chosen panellists represent the soul of Africa’s creative space.
“These are professionals who have built strong careers in film, music, theatre, events, marketing, and branding,” Iyanda said. “They understand the hurdles and the opportunities that define the creative industry. This panel will deliver actionable insights, share real experiences, and inspire new thinking. And with Ayorinde moderating, it’s set to be a truly engaging session.”
The QEDNG Creative Powerhouse Summit holds on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, at Radisson Blu Hotel, Isaac John Street, Ikeja GRA, Lagos.
The event is open to creatives—filmmakers, musicians, designers, advertisers—as well as financial institutions, policymakers, and aspiring talents looking to build sustainable careers in the industry.
Registration is now open via https://www.qed.ng/creative-powerhouse-summit/
Further announcements will be made as the summit approaches.