TE20 PRESS CONFERENCE

THE CONVENER'S SPEECH

Good morning distinguished members of the press, our esteemed artistes, our partners, and everyone present. Thank you for joining us today.

Twenty years ago, The Experience began as an idea; one night where music, excellence, and community could live on the same stage.

Today, it has become a global moment. And every year, since 2006, there is a point during the night, usually around midnight, when I look around and realise that this is bigger than a concert. It is what unity looks like in real time. Scripture captures this beautifully in Genesis 11:5, where God observes a people unified in heart and intention. It is a reminder that unity has always carried immense potential, especially when people gather around meaning and shared purpose.

For one night, people who do not look alike or think alike move to the same rhythm.

The rhythm is hope.

The sound is from heaven.

It is possibility.

It is the belief that even in a challenging world, we can still experience something extraordinary together.

At its core, The Experience is a simple idea executed with unwavering excellence -to bring world-class artistry to a stage on the African Continent. Create a safe space for people to convene, and remind the nation of what is possible when systems work.

The truth is that excellence is not magic. It is carefully arranged. It involves planning and accountability. It is young Nigerian professionals demonstrating, year after year, that when the environment is suitable, we perform at world-class levels.

This year, we honour the people who have shaped this platform into what it is. Our artistes, many of whom have returned time and again, are more than ministers. They are family. They have stood with us, grown with us, and poured their hearts into something bigger than any of us. Their consistency and generosity have moulded The Experience in ways that numbers cannot fully express.

Today, we are pleased to welcome Pastor Tolu Odukoya and Gaise Baba into the family, and to warmly welcome back Solomon Lange. Three powerful voices, three unique journeys, three sounds that will enrich this historic edition. Solomon's return, after a long absence, is meaningful in a year when we are bringing our entire community together once again.

Twenty years mark a significant milestone. It demonstrates the resilience of God's grace, growth, and the nation that, despite its challenges, continues to unite, celebrate, and rise together.

This brings us to our theme for this year, Jesus United. Unity does not happen by chance. It is deliberate. It starts in the heart of an individual and grows into families, communities, and nations. When people share values that uplift everyone, society begins to heal and become stronger.

Jesus united reminds us that our most profound unity is found in Him. In shared purpose. In shared grace. In shared responsibility for one another. We do not stand together because we are the same, but because we are willing to build something greater than ourselves.

To our media partners, government agencies, medical and safety teams, technical crews, production professionals, and the thousands of people who make this night work, and, of course, the DREAM TEAM, thank you. Your excellence is the backbone of this platform.

And to everyone getting ready for The Experience 20, whether you are joining us at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, Lagos grounds or online, we welcome you to a destiny-defining moment. A reminder that unity is powerful, that excellence is possible here, and that Nigeria can still showcase something that the world pauses to watch.

Welcome to TE20.

Together, let us make history again.

I thank you. God bless you. God bless The Experience, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.