By Michael Dibie
The city of Abuja, Nigeria witnessed a major cultural revival with the return of the Abuja Alternate Festival (AAF) 2026. The much-anticipated music festival, organised by Bluetooth Entertainment, delivered a renewed celebration of alternative music, arts and creative industry development.
Highlights of the event included performances AFRIMA Award-nominated indie-alternate band The Isomers, Nunu Eluma, Jarell Ebuka, Francis Atela (Nigeria Idols finalist), Jordan Bangoji and other notable Rising icons who delivered unforgettable performances that cemented the AAF as the ultimate platform for discovery.
Since its debut in 2021, the festival has carved a niche as a sanctuary for artists whose sounds defy conventional trends. The organizers say the festival is the blueprint for the next generation of independent creators, turning raw talents into sustainable, global brands.
“The festival is to create a home not just alternate art but the music eco system, the first edition was artist focus but this second edition is Artist and brand focus, so we are trying to see how bands can tap into the Eco system and not just music as a form of entertainment but also as a form of business, said MCluetooth, on Air personality, talent Manager and cultural architect.
“So when we celebrate the alternate from the capital, we are trying to spotlight the amazing crop of musicians within that genre of music in the city centre doing the job” Said Big Sheddy on D Beats, a seasoned On-Air Personality with Beat FM, Abuja.
According to some artistic legends, the show has become a staple in Abuja’s cultural calendar, offering a platform for discovery and artistic expression.
Abuja music is more sensational more like a playback, we have more connection with our fans. I would say Abuja holds a very big step, when it comes to revolution in music. Said Jordan Bangoji, An Artist.
“if they support artist and give them capital but most importantly collaboration, when artists start collaborating with other and they are also receptive, thinks will work.” Said Meemah Jackson, Another Artist.
Also speaking at the event, The Chief Executive Officer, DNT Authors, Odide Olwaseun, said there is a connection between musicians and luxury cars adding that the car one drives tells a lot about the personality of a person.
“You know the likes of other musical personality out there, you talk about the luxury cars they drive, so for every music person we are willing to give the opportunity to experience our luxury cars.
Since inception, the show has attracted thousands of fans and earned recognition for its seamless logistics, premium sound quality and intimate yet energetic atmosphere.
