Buchi, Mike Abdul, Others Electrify ‘Aramanda 2025’

Iyke Bede

This past Holy Saturday,the afro-urban Christian music and arts festival ‘Aramanda’ returned with its theme,‘Biggest Christian Party,’ showcasing some of Nigeria’s renowned gospel acts,as well as up-and-coming creatives dedicated to promoting the message of the Christian gospel.

Powered by Spotify and staged at the Landmark Event Centre,Victoria Island,Lagos,the evening was a convergence of youths in their multitude,with a common goal in mind — praise and worship. Kicking off past 4 p.m.,there was a seamless transition of performing artists who helped maintain the tempo. From singers to rappers to spoken word poets to comedians dramatising issues with the aim of providing solutions,‘Aramanda’s’ return this year left no room for snoozing.

With an impressive lineup,some of the standout performers included Tobi Peter,a disc jockey who took the audience on a rave-esque session,blending sounds from present and past,eliciting excitement and pure nostalgia. Performing for the first time at the festival,Kachi Annuncia delivered a soulful medley,connecting with the audience on a deeper level. Singer Angeloh took a page from the Book of Solomon as he performed songs that celebrated personal and romantic relationships,especially honouring women. For their slot,the group Spirit of Prophecy embraced a calmer tone with their opening rendition of ‘Above All’ before swiftly turning the praise on.

Mike Abdul,a member of Midnight Crew formed in the early 2000s,also performed a medley of worship and praise songs that connected well with the crowd,evoking a sense of collective joy and fulfilment.

Anticipated for his appearance,Buchi Atuonwu,mononymously known as Buchi,stepped out in traditional,free-flowing native wear and his signature headgear,commanding the stage with quiet confidence and overt stage presence as he performed some of his biggest records.

The event also paid tribute to the late Big Bolaji (born Bolaji Olanrewaju),who passed away that day after a brief illness. A singer,media personality,and ordained pastor,his legacy was honoured with a minute’s silence,led by convener Gaise Baba.

Yet again,‘Aramanda’ delivered an unforgettable night of music,praise,and unity,bringing together some of Nigeria’s top gospel acts and fresh talent and reinforcing the power of community and faith.