Monday, January 8, 2024

Nigeria Event Industry Trends in 2024

 

Nigeria Event Industry Trends in 2024

 

The last time I reviewed the Nigeria event industry trend was in 2018. Since then, a lot of developments have taken place.

 

The approach I have taken this year is to research using the AI tools. I asked this same question “What are the event industry trends in Nigeria for 2024?” to OpenAI ChatGPT, Google Bard and AskWay AI.

There is a convergence in the responses that I received. So here are the major trends predicted.

 

Hybrid and Virtual Events: The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of virtual and hybrid events. Therefore in 2024, we can expect a mix of in-person and virtual elements in events to cater to a wider audience and provide flexibility. Because Hybrid events allow for broader participation and increased accessibility, this trend of blending in-person and virtual experiences is likely to have continued dominance tis 2024.

As in the global landscape, hybrid events will remain popular in Nigeria due to their appeal to a wider audience, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility. We expect to see more blended church events, corporate conferences, Meetings, Seminars, Workshops, and even concerts with both physical and virtual components.

 

Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

Local and Cultural Integration: The Events that integrate and celebrate local culture are gaining popularity in Nigeria. These include incorporating traditional elements, local cuisines, and entertainments that reflects the rich cultural diversity of Nigeria.

While catering for international audience is still relevant, there will be a strong focus on creating immersive virtual experiences for local attendees and audience who might not be able to attend in person due to financial or logistical constraints.


Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

 

Sustainability Practices: The global focus on sustainability is growing and will definitely impact the event industry in Nigeria as well. Event planners will increasingly begin to incorporate eco-friendly practices such as reducing waste, using renewable energy sources, encouraging responsible consumption, practicing green initiatives and promoting environmental consciousness.

  • The increased awareness about sustainability will become a bigger talking point amongst event organizers and attendees in Nigeria. Eco-conscious vendors, local sourcing of materials, and carbon offsetting initiatives will be more prevalent.
  • Creative solutions will be expected in the area of innovative waste management strategies, reusable materials, and energy-efficient setups. Additionally, there might be a shift towards smaller, localized events to minimize travel emissions and cost due to rising fuel cost.

 


Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

Technology Integration: The use of technology in events will continue to evolve. This is as a result of continued advancements in event technology, such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mobile apps, AI-powered chatbots and live streaming platforms. These developments will play a significant role in enhancing event management, creating immersive experiences and increasing captivating engagement.

  • The rise of AR and VR has already found its way into Nigerian events, enhancing experiences for showcasing products, venue tours, and even cultural performances.
  • The prevalence of secure and convenient online ticketing platforms and cashless payment options has become the norm and is promoting a smooth and efficient event experience.

 

Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

Customization, Personalization and Engagement: Attendees will be seeking more personalized experiences and event organizers are leveraging technology to tailor event content, networking opportunities and meet-and-greet activities to align with specific individual preferences and interests including personalized content and experiences.

  • Nigerian event organizers have begun to leverage on data-driven approaches to technology to personalize attendee experiences. Tailored recommendations, AI-powered chatbots, and interactive elements will become more common.
  • Focus on community building has been increased thus fostering interactive networking opportunities that will be crucial for both in-person and virtual attendees. This could involve gamified experiences, online forums, and interactive Q&A sessions.

 

Security, Health and Safety Measures: Given the impact of the Global COVID-19 pandemic, the importance of health, safety and security at events in Nigeria, will remain a priority. Therefore, there will be ongoing emphasis on implementing robust measures to ensure the safety of attendees. Event organizers will continue to implement protocols like temperature checks, sanitization stations, and crowd management strategies, strictly-by-invitation checks etc. to ensure attendee safety.

 

 

Collaborations and Partnerships: Nigeria Event organizers will increasingly collaborate with other global organizations, sponsors, local businesses and influencers to promote events and create unique and impactful experiences. These partnerships will help to expand reach, share resources, enhance event offerings, create more value for attendees and offer diverse perspectives.

 

Innovative Venue Choices: Event Planners are now exploring non-traditional and unique venues to host events, providing attendees with impactful, memorable and distinctive experiences. This pattern will continue in 2024. Venues will become more tech-friendly by providing facilities like Digital Signage, Fast Reliable Wi-Fi and Charging Stations.

 

Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

Special Party Effects: The event decorators will continue to up their game in 2024 with the influence of party effects from China. 360 Degree Video Booths, Fog machines, Cold Spark machine, Flame machines, Bubble and snow equipment, Confetti Blast machines, Moving Heads lights, Laser lights, PAR lights, LED dance floor, CO2 and Foam machines have made their way into the event space in Nigeria.

This trend will continue as China keeps churning out new designs

Balloons have maintained persistent presence in the decoration space and will continue the run into the year 2024 and beyond.

To promote eco-friendliness and green initiative, live plants are making their way into event spaces as center pieces and decorations.

China’s strong influence into the Nigeria event technology and decoration industry will continue way beyond 2024 as hitherto unaffordable event industry items are not available at a more affordable cost through China.



Photo: Courtesy of eCache Events

Other Noteworthy Trends:

  • There will be increased focus and priority on local content and talent such as promoting Nigerian artists, musicians, comedians and speakers; celebrating the country's rich cultural heritage.
  • The growth of bleisure (coined from the words Business and Leisure) travels that combines business events with leisure activities will be attractive to attendees, encouraging tourism and boosting local economies.
  • The rise of niche events leading to events catering to specific interests and communities, such as gaming tournaments, food festivals, and fitness workshops, will gain traction.

Generally, these are just some of the anticipated trends and the Nigerian event industry is constantly evolving. By staying informed and adapting to these changes, event organizers can create successful and memorable experiences for their audiences in 2024 and beyond.

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