TE20: Nigeria can showcase something the world pauses to watch – Adefarasin

L-R: Bidemi Olaoba; Mercy Chinwo, and Dunsin Oyekan, at the Experience 20 press conference

As the day breaks over Nigeria, the Christian community across the length and breadth of Lagos, and the globe welcomes The Experience 20 at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Onikan, Lagos.

It was a dusk to dawn moment of worship as people gathered under the chilling breeze of the night to sing, praise and dance to non-stop gospel music.

For the body who witnessed The Experience, either joining live at the Tafawa Balewa Square, in Onikan or online, the 2025 edition of the global music fiesta portrays a destiny-defining moment, for both the audience and artists.

“A reminder that unity is powerful, that excellence is possible here and that Nigeria can still showcase something that the world pauses to watch,” said Paul Adefarasin, the Metropolitan, all House On The Rock churches, and convener of The Experience.

He added that at the core of The Experience is a simple idea executed with unwavering excellence that brings world-class artistry to a stage on the African continent. According to him, The Experience creates a safe space for people to convene, and remind the nation of what is possible when systems work. “It is the belief that even in a challenging world; we can still experience something extraordinary together.”

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Themed, ‘Jesus United,’ Adefarasin said that the annual gospel music fiesta demonstrates the resilience of God’s grace, growth, and the nation that, despite its challenges, continues to unite, celebrate, and rise together.

“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,” Adefarasin said.

He added that for one night, people who do not look alike or think alike move to the same rhythm, which he classified as the rhythm of hope. According to him, unity does not happen by chance – it is deliberate and starts in the heart of an individual, before growing into families, communities, and nations.

Adefarasin said that when people share values that uplift others, the 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.”

The Experience 2025 welcomed new artists like Tolu Odukoya, Gaise Baba, while Solomon Lange made a return for Jesus United. Solomon’s return, after a long absence resonated with the theme for this year; bringing the entire community together once again.

“We are really more excited that people are gathered just to see what can happen,” said Sinach, adding that every year at The Experience pushes the bar. While Tolu Odukoya, who made her first appearance at The Experience, said she’s excited to join other global artists in moments of worship.

Seyi John Salau is a BusinessDay Correspondent with interest in development journalism, which tells stories that connect the people, brands, and the government. SeyiJohn is also a media professional with BSc, Mass Communition (ACU); Masters of School Media (MSM, Ibadan) & MSc, Mass Communication (Caleb).

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