Caustival 2026, a social justice festival exploring the intersections of democracy, information integrity, culture, and civic participation, will take place from June 12–13, 2026, in Abuja, Nigeria.
Under the theme “WE DECIDE,” the festival arrives at a critical moment in Nigeria’s democratic journey, bringing together culture, storytelling, and civic dialogue ahead of the 2027 elections.
Through conversations, exhibitions, performances, screenings, and immersive public experiences, Caustival 2026 will examine how everyday decisions, media consumption, storytelling, and citizen engagement collectively influence democratic outcomes long before election day.
Why civic culture matters ahead of 2027 polls?
As misinformation, voter apathy, and political distrust continue to shape democratic participation globally, the festival seeks to create a space where citizens can engage critically with the systems, narratives, and cultural forces influencing political life in Nigeria.
Participants will explore questions around why elections matter, how governance affects everyday life, the impact of disinformation on public trust, and the role of citizens in shaping political outcomes beyond voting cycles.
The convening will also examine the continued underrepresentation of women and young people in civic and political spaces, while exploring how culture and storytelling can expand participation and visibility.
Culture, Storytelling, and Public Imagination
The festival will feature conversations led by civic and cultural voices, including Salma Ja’eh, Fakhrriyyah Hashim, Nabilah Usman, Solape Sonuga, Morenikeji Sanni, Anthony Azekwoh, Basil Abia, Nnenna Eze, Shade Mary-Ann Olaoye, Doreen Nwoke, and Ikenna Obiora-Madu, among others.
The festival will explore critical issues, including why elections matter and how they affect everyday life, the role of citizens in shaping political outcomes, the importance of tackling disinformation, and the need for stronger participation of women and young people in politics and civic life.
The Exhibition will showcase works from 20 artists interrogating themes around voting, political participation, identity, and public decision-making.
Audiences will experience interactive installations exploring voter turnout, immersive voting-themed spaces, and portrait displays documenting the experiences of first-time voters and historically underrepresented communities.
Film screenings and fireside conversations will further explore major civic themes through storytelling and public dialogue.
Featured screenings include Softie under the theme “Ballots and Betrayals”; Double Minority, exploring women and democratic power; The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos, which examines governance and survival beyond election cycles; and When Nigeria Happens, tracing the journey from protest energy to electoral power.
From Awareness to Participation
Beyond the festival programme, Caustival 2026 aims to deepen public conversation around democratic participation and strengthen civic engagement ahead of the 2027 elections.
The festival will conclude with a live performance showcase featuring spoken word, music, and civic reflections from Lady Donli, Waye, Tay Iwar, and Dre foryoursoul, bringing together culture and public consciousness in a shared call toward participation, accountability, and collective responsibility.
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