Manny Ita
The Association of Professional Party Organisers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN) has finalized plans for the fifth edition of its flagship annual gathering, Owambe 5.0, scheduled for February 3, 2026, at the Shaba Event Centre in Ikeja, Lagos. Under the theme “Nigeria Old Skool Concept – The 1940s Revival,” the event aims to pay homage to the “vibrant, timeless, and colourful heritage” of the country’s classic party era. APPOEMN President Ayiri Oladunmoye characterized the celebration as “more than just a party,” describing it as a “cultural thanksgiving” intended to usher in the new year while celebrating professional excellence within the event management sector.
The program is designed to recreate the social aesthetics of the mid-20th century through a combination of vintage fashion, live band performances of evergreen music, and nostalgic decor. Event Director Segun Inanwolay detailed an itinerary that includes a red-carpet “old skool” fashion parade, where attendees are encouraged to appear in 1940s-inspired attire. Inanwolay noted that the evening will provide “premium networking opportunities” for vendors, creatives, and industry stakeholders, serving as a platform where “partnerships are formed, creativity is highlighted, and emerging talents gain visibility.”
The 2026 edition is being positioned as the largest in the association’s history, reflecting a broader effort to promote professional standards and innovation within Nigeria’s creative economy. Organizers emphasized that the event marks a “social reunion” for members at the start of the fiscal year, blending professional engagement with cultural preservation. Registration for the event is currently open to both members and the general public, with various sponsorship opportunities available for brands looking to align with the high-profile cultural moment.
In addition to the fashion and music showcases, Owambe 5.0 will feature the formal recognition of key contributors to the Nigerian event industry. By bridging the gap between historical party traditions and modern event practices, APPOEMN seeks to honor the “spirit of collaboration and creativity” that sustains the industry. Stakeholders maintain that such initiatives are essential for maintaining the values and high ethical standards that define the nation’s premier event professionals.
