The Experience 2026: Full Lineup Announced for 21st Edition in Lagos
Africa’s biggest gospel music gathering, The Experience, will return to Lagos on December 4, 2026, for its landmark 21st edition. The annual worship concert will take place at the iconic Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), bringing together gospel artists, worship leaders and thousands of believers for a night of praise, prayer and celebration.
Hosted by Pastor Paul Adefarasin, Metropolitan Senior Pastor of House On The Rock Church, this year’s gathering will carry the theme “JESUS THE ROCK.” The theme places Jesus Christ at the centre of the event and highlights the faith, hope and strength believers find in Him. Organizers expect another memorable night of worship, with music and prayer creating an atmosphere of unity across different Christian traditions.
Since its launch in 2006, The Experience has grown from a local worship gathering into an international gospel music event. Over the years, it has attracted millions of people, both at the venue and through online broadcasts. Its reach continues to extend beyond Nigeria, drawing viewers and worshippers from different parts of the world.
The concert has earned a strong reputation for bringing together respected gospel ministers and emerging voices on one stage. Each edition offers a wide range of musical expressions, from contemporary gospel and praise to deep worship and moments of prayer. More importantly, the event gives people from different churches, communities and nations an opportunity to worship together.
Organizers have now unveiled an impressive lineup of Nigerian and international ministers for the 2026 edition. The announced performers include Israel Houghton, Travis Greene, Dunsin Oyekan, Nathaniel Bassey, Bidemi Olaoba, Mr M & Revelation, Sonnie Badu, Eno Michael, Emma Oh My God, Tim Godfrey, LB Quake, Onos Ariyo, LMGC, Mercy Chinwo and Moses Bliss.
The list brings together artists with different musical styles and approaches to ministry. From energetic praise sessions to reflective worship moments, their contributions are expected to give the night a rich and varied sound. Their presence also reflects the event’s long standing commitment to bringing gospel voices from across the Christian music community together.
This year’s edition will also introduce several ministers making their debut at The Experience. Ghanaian gospel singer and worship leader Joe Mettle will join the gathering for the first time. He will be joined by energetic praise leader Blessing Lopez, worship sensation Kaestrings, powerhouse vocalist Sunmisola Agbebi and Oncemore Six.
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Their inclusion adds another exciting dimension to the 2026 lineup. Each brings a distinct sound and ministry expression, giving audiences an opportunity to experience different approaches to gospel music and worship. Their debut appearances also reflect the event’s continued interest in welcoming fresh voices while maintaining its connection with established ministers.
With such a wide range of performers, The Experience 2026 is shaping up to be another major night for gospel music in Africa. However, the event goes beyond the names on the programme. Its central purpose remains the gathering of believers to honour Jesus Christ, lift their voices in worship and strengthen their shared faith.
The theme, “JESUS THE ROCK,” captures this purpose. It points to Christ as the firm foundation on which believers can build their lives, especially during uncertain times. The message also speaks to the heart of the gathering, which welcomes people from different nations, denominations, cultures and backgrounds to worship in one accord.
The image of Jesus as the Rock carries a message of stability, trust and hope. It reminds believers that their faith does not depend on changing circumstances. Instead, they can find confidence in Christ, whose love and promises remain dependable. Through this theme, the 21st edition will encourage worshippers to focus on the person of Jesus rather than the differences that may separate them.
Over the years, The Experience has become much more than an annual concert. What began as a vision to bring people together in worship has developed into a global platform for gospel music, prayer and Christian fellowship. Its growing international audience shows the power of worship to connect people across geographical and cultural boundaries.
Another important part of its identity is its open invitation to the public. The concert remains free and accessible to all, allowing people from different walks of life to take part without the cost of admission. This approach reflects the spirit of inclusion at the heart of the event and reinforces its message that worship belongs to everyone.
The gathering also provides a platform for gifted psalmists and worship leaders to share their music and minister to a broad audience. Through praise, worship and intercession, the event creates space for people to express their faith and seek a deeper relationship with God. For many attendees, it has become an important moment of spiritual renewal and fellowship.
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Pastor Paul Adefarasin remains central to the vision behind The Experience. As Founder and Metropolitan Senior Pastor of House On The Rock, he has built a ministry focused on sharing the Gospel, developing people and contributing to society. His work as a teacher, author and public voice has also extended into initiatives that address wider social needs.
Through The Rock Foundation, Pastor Paul leads humanitarian programmes that support education, healthcare and empowerment for underprivileged communities. These efforts reflect his belief that Christian ministry should reach beyond the church and make a practical difference in people’s lives. The foundation’s work also forms part of the wider vision of service and social responsibility associated with his leadership.
Serving alongside him is Pastor Ifeanyi Adefarasin, Co-Pastor of House On The Rock and Founder of the Woman-to-Woman Ministry. Through the ministry, she mentors and equips women to recognise their potential, grow in faith and fulfil their God given purpose. Her work places strong emphasis on spiritual development, leadership and empowerment.
Her commitment has encouraged women across different communities to pursue personal growth and make meaningful contributions to their families, churches and society. Together with Pastor Paul, she has helped strengthen a ministry culture that connects faith with compassion, service and purposeful leadership.
The Adefarasins’ shared vision continues to shape the identity of The Experience. Their leadership reflects the values of faith, unity and service that have helped the concert grow over the past two decades. As the event enters its 21st edition, it remains a platform for worship and a wider expression of Christian fellowship.
As December 4 approaches, anticipation will continue to build among gospel music lovers and worshippers in Nigeria and beyond. With an extensive lineup of established ministers and first time performers, The Experience 2026 promises a night of diverse musical expressions and united praise.
Ultimately, the message of this year’s gathering is clear. Regardless of background, denomination or nationality, believers will come together around one name: Jesus Christ. Under the theme “JESUS THE ROCK,” the 21st edition will once again invite the world to lift one voice in worship and celebrate the faith that brings people together.
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