December 26th, 2025, marked a pivotal moment in Lagos' cultural landscape as Adekunle Gold hosted a groundbreaking concert that transformed the recently renovated National Theatre, now officially known as The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts. This event was not merely a performance but a historic occasion, being the first concert held at the iconic venue in years. Adekunle Gold, accompanied by a magnificent 55-piece orchestra and his band, the 79th Element, delivered a masterful performance that profoundly showcased the artistic depth and expansive range of Afrobeats music.

The celebration extended beyond the concert hall to an exclusive after-party, meticulously hosted by The Macallan, a renowned luxury Scottish whisky brand. This sophisticated gathering took place on the National Theatre’s rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking, sweeping views of the glittering Lagos Marina skyline. Adhering to a black-tie dress code, the event attracted Lagos society at its finest, embodying an aura of elegance and refinement from start to finish. The atmosphere was expertly curated by DJs Uche Briggs and Soul Yin, who kept the energy flowing with a selection of Afrobeats favorites, creating a perfect blend of celebration and relaxation. Hypemen Wale Ozolua and Big Bimi skillfully elevated the mood, recognizing the importance of this night for Adekunle Gold to celebrate his achievements with his inner circle. The esteemed guest list included Nigeria’s creative elite, influential industry tastemakers, and close friends who have been integral to Adekunle Gold’s journey.

A defining moment of the evening occurred midway through the night when Hammed Adebiyi, Senior Brand Manager for West and Central Africa at Edrington, presented Adekunle Gold with a bottle of The Macallan 25 Years Old Sherry Oak. For connoisseurs of premium spirits, this gesture held immense significance, as this particular whisky represents a quarter-century of unparalleled craftsmanship, meticulous patience, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Adebiyi articulated the synergy between the artist and the brand, stating, “We recognize in Adekunle Gold the same values that define The Macallan: dedication to craft, commitment to excellence, and the patience to create something truly exceptional.” He added, “This concert represents years of artistic evolution, and we’re honored to celebrate this milestone with him.” The symbolism of the moment was profound: an artist who has spent over a decade perfecting his unique sound receiving recognition from a brand that has dedicated generations to perfecting its craft, exemplifying excellence acknowledging excellence.

This collaboration was not The Macallan’s first engagement with Adekunle Gold; they had previously supported the launch of his ‘Coco Money’ music video with an intimate event earlier in the year. However, this after-party held a more significant resonance. The Macallan successfully created an ideal, luxurious yet welcoming space for Adekunle Gold and his community to celebrate this landmark moment in a fitting manner. The rooftop venue was elegantly appointed without being overly formal, and The Macallan flowed freely as guests engaged in animated discussions about their favorite moments from the concert—ranging from the orchestra's reinterpretation of familiar songs to Adekunle Gold’s commanding stage presence, and the broader implications of witnessing Afrobeats performed with such orchestral grandeur.

By the time guests began to depart around 2 a.m., the prevailing atmosphere was one of deep satisfaction and thoughtful reflection. Attendees had not only witnessed history unfold inside the National Theatre but had also appropriately celebrated it on the rooftop above. The entire evening served as a powerful demonstration of what is achievable when global brands approach African culture with genuine respect, cultural intelligence, and a true understanding of its value. It was a remarkable night where the pinnacle of whisky craftsmanship converged with musical excellence, and where Nigeria’s vibrant creative community united to honor one of its most celebrated talents.