The highly anticipated Afro Nation 2025 music festival kicked off in spectacular fashion on Wednesday night, with electrifying performances from Nigerian music stars Shallipopi and Davido. Held in the scenic coastal city of Portimão, Portugal, the opening night delivered high-energy acts, emotional moments, and unforgettable scenes that marked the beginning of the three-day celebration of African music and culture.
Afro Nation, which was launched in 2019 by an international entertainment company, has since become the world’s leading festival celebrating Afrobeats, Amapiano, dancehall, hip-hop, R&B, and African culture. The 2025 edition has drawn fans from around the globe, all converging to witness performances from the biggest names in African music.
One of the standout performances of the night came from rapidly rising Nigerian artist Shallipopi. Known for his vibrant energy and chart-topping street anthems, the Edo State-born star set the stage ablaze as he performed his viral hit “Lahoo.” In a heartfelt gesture that resonated with fans both at the venue and online, Shallipopi brought his siblings and fellow emerging artistes on stage to share the moment.
The crowd erupted as he shouted, “This one na for my people. We rise together, and we win together.” His decision to spotlight his family and team was seen by many as a reflection of humility and deep appreciation for his roots.
Taking over from the street pop sensation was none other than Afrobeats megastar Davido, who headlined the opening night with a powerhouse set that spanned his decade-long catalog of hits. The DMW boss thrilled the packed crowd with smash records including “If,” “Fall,” “Fia,” and his career-launching anthem “Dami Duro.” With each song, fans sang along word for word, waving Nigerian flags and dancing to the irresistible rhythms.
As Davido wrapped up his energetic performance, Afro Nation took to their official X (formerly Twitter) page to celebrate his presence at the festival. Sharing a video of his performance, the organizers wrote:
“ANP2025? OBO OUR HEADLINER!! @davido closed our day one of #ANP2025 with the biggest and BADDEST energy 001 would bring!”
Similarly, Shallipopi’s showstopping act did not go unnoticed. Afro Nation praised the artist’s breakout performance with the caption:
“MONUMENTAL! @theycallmeshallipopi came to SCATTER the Portimão at #ANP2025!”
The festival, which runs from July 10 to July 12, features a diverse lineup of African and global acts. Nigerian Grammy winner Tems is set to take the stage on Thursday night, where she is expected to perform tracks from her acclaimed debut album and recent collaborations. Known for her soulful voice and emotionally charged lyrics, Tems has grown into a global sensation, and fans are eagerly awaiting her set.
The grand finale on Friday night promises to be just as explosive, with African Giant Burna Boy, South African dance queen Kamo Mphela, French rap heavyweight Booba, and Jamaican dancehall artist Dexta Daps all billed to perform.
For many fans, the opening night served as a powerful testament to the global rise of Afrobeats and the genre’s undeniable influence on world music. The production, stage design, and overall experience reflected the festival’s commitment to celebrating African excellence on a global stage.
Fan reactions across social media have been overwhelmingly positive. Videos and pictures of Shallipopi’s touching moment with his siblings and Davido’s commanding stage presence have gone viral, with fans applauding the unity and star power on display.
One festival-goer, Sandra O., who flew in from London, said, “I’ve been to Afro Nation before, but this year is on another level. Shallipopi really surprised me — bringing his family on stage was so real. And Davido? He is the king of performances. He owned the stage like no other.”
For many industry observers, the presence of new wave acts like Shallipopi alongside seasoned legends like Davido signifies a healthy generational blend that ensures the future of Afrobeats remains strong. Shallipopi, who rose to fame with songs that reflect street life and youthful energy, is now becoming a regular feature on big international stages, and Afro Nation 2025 may have just cemented his place as one of the next global breakout stars.
Davido, on the other hand, remains a symbol of consistency and longevity. Having performed at nearly every major music festival worldwide, his Afro Nation appearance further underscores his status as one of Africa’s biggest musical exports. Beyond the music, Davido has consistently used his platform to uplift other artists, including Shallipopi, who has acknowledged Davido’s influence on his journey.
As the sun set over Portimão and the Afro Nation stage glowed with lights, energy, and African pride, one thing became clear: the continent’s music has arrived on the global stage with full force — and it’s here to stay.
The next two days of the festival are expected to offer even more excitement, collaborations, and moments that will leave lasting memories in the hearts of fans. Afro Nation continues to prove itself not just as a music festival but as a cultural movement — connecting the African diaspora, amplifying Black voices, and celebrating the richness of the motherland’s sound.
With Shallipopi’s breakout and Davido’s masterclass, Afro Nation 2025 is off to a spectacular start.
