Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Convener of the annual Christian music festival, The Experience, has described the event as a platform to inspire African youths to take over leadership roles across the continent.
Speaking during a press briefing ahead of the 2025 edition of the all-night gospel concert, Adefarasin, Senior Pastor of House on the Rock Church, emphasised that the festival provides not only spiritual enrichment but also visionary training for participants, equipping them to address Africa’s socio-economic and developmental challenges.
“The unity and vibrancy witnessed during The Experience expose young people to divine inspiration, preparing them to lead and innovate in all sectors of national life,” he said.
He noted that the 2025 edition, themed ‘Jesus United’, marked over 20 years of the festival’s evangelistic impact and celebrates the contributions of artists who have been central to its success.
Adefarasin lamented Africa’s underdevelopment, stressing that through worship, prayer, and communal engagement, the youth are being shaped to drive a new era of leadership.
“God’s response to praise and worship is visionary leadership, enabling individuals, communities, and nations to overcome stagnation and challenges,” he added.
Organised by House on the Rock Church, The Experience is one of the largest gospel music festivals in the world, drawing thousands of attendees to Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos.
The festival features both international and local artists, creating an electrifying atmosphere focused on spiritual growth, unity, and empowerment.
This year’s lineup includes Travis Greene, Chevelle Franklyn, Onos Ariyo, Beejay Sax, Muyiwa Olarewaju, Israel Houghton, Dunsin Oyekan, Mike Aremu, Mercy Chinwo, Naomi Raine, Chandler Moore, Adeyinka Alaseyori, Sinach, Frank Edwards, and the Lagos Metropolitan Gospel Choir.
Also, Tolu Odukoya and Gaise Baba will make their debut appearances at the event.
The church has assured attendees of adequate security measures for the flagship programme, which continues to serve as a hub for nurturing young leaders and fostering spiritual and creative excellence across Nigeria and Africa.
