By Peter Omopo
Legendary American R&B group Shalamar will headline a major concert in Abuja on October 4 as part of Nigeria’s 65th Independence celebrations.
The event, billed for the International Conference Centre, is being promoted by iCreate Africa in partnership with First Culture Limited, and promises to deliver a night of nostalgia, electrifying performances, and timeless music.
Shalamar, famed for classics such as A Night to Remember and I Can Make You Feel Good, will perform alongside its iconic lineup — Howard Hewett, Carolyn Griffey, and Jeffrey Daniel, who pioneered the “backslide” dance move, later popularised as the moonwalk.
Chief Executive of iCreate Africa, Bright Jaja, described the concert as more than entertainment.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Shalamar to Abuja this Independence weekend. Their decision to include Nigeria on their global tour is not just an honour, it’s a gift to a vibrant community of music lovers who have carried their legacy for decades,” he said.
Tunde Babalola, Creative Director of First Culture, added that the show would serve as a cultural bridge.
“This isn’t just a concert, it’s a gift to all generations — a musical bridge between the past and present,” he noted.
Tickets are currently on sale at Jabi Boat Club, El-Amin International School, House 43, and Istanbul Restaurant, Jabi Mall.
In a video message, the group expressed excitement about returning to Nigeria, promising fans a performance true to their name: “a night to remember.”
This marks Shalamar’s second major outing in Nigeria. Their first visit in 1982 saw sold-out shows at the National Arts Theatre in Lagos and universities in Ibadan, Lagos, and Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
With more than 25 million records sold and a legacy of influencing funk, soul, and dance culture worldwide, Shalamar’s Abuja concert is expected to be a historic highlight of Nigeria’s Independence festivities.
