Lagos: The Organisers of the Sen. Gbenga Daniel Choir Competition have announced a prize pool of N30 million for the 2025 edition of ‘The Asiwaju of Remo Christians Choir Festival competition’, scheduled for July 6.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the festival, which has been an annual event for the past two decades, was founded and sponsored by Senator Gbenga Daniel, who represents Ogun East. In recent years, the festival has expanded its scope to include more competitive prizes, attracting choirs from across Nigeria and beyond.
Senator Daniel, speaking in Lagos, shared his motivation for the festival, rooted in his experiences as a chorister and pianist at the Baptist Boys’ High School in Ogun. He emphasized the role of music in his spiritual and musical development and expressed his desire to use the festival as a platform to influence the values of the younger generation.
Daniel highlighted the importance of addressing moral decadence in society and using music to foster discipline and proper values among youth. He urged parents to actively participate in reshaping societal values to create a positive impact on future generations.
Dr. Opeyemi Asaolu, Curator and Member of the Organising Board, revealed that 850 choristers are expected to participate in the event at the Abraham Tabernacle Church in Sagamu, Ogun State. This year, nine choirs have qualified for the competition, an increase from the usual six in previous editions.
Asaolu detailed the prize distribution, with the winning choir set to receive N5 million. Other prizes range from N3.5 million for second place to N500,000 for ninth place, with observing choirs receiving N500,000 each. The selection of participants followed a rigorous auditioning process, aiming to ensure high-quality performances.
In 2024, the festival, held in Remo, Sagamu, saw a total prize pool of N10 million, with the first prize set at N3 million. The upcoming 2025 edition marks a significant increase in prize offerings, encouraging wider participation and support.
The festival’s Governing Board includes Ms. Lilian Imoni, Dr. Adeola Badru, and Mr. Seun Owoaje, who work alongside Senator Daniel and other members to ensure the event’s success. The organisers call on Nigerians to support the festival, enhancing its reach and impact.