Port Harcourt is preparing to host one of its most anticipated cultural events as PH City Comic Con returns for its fourth edition on Saturday, 16 August 2025. The convention, which will take place at Ediz Wine Bar, has become a rallying point for fans of comic books, anime, gaming, cosplay, films and the wider pop culture universe. Over the years, it has distinguished itself not only as a celebration of fandom but also as a platform for showcasing local talent and fostering a growing creative economy.

Speaking with The African Comics and Cinematic Empire (TheACE), Event Director Barida Lucy Alawa described the driving force behind the event in clear terms: “community and opportunity.” She explained that PH City Comic Con was conceived as a space where the city’s creative minds and enthusiastic fans could come together, share ideas, and inspire one another. “Some have gotten job opportunities, some are seeing African comic books for the first time, and some made new friends”. She stated.

While the fun and spectacle of the convention remain central, the broader aim is to use pop culture as a gateway to meaningful connections, career opportunities and the growth of a sustainable creative industry in Rivers State and beyond.

Since launching as the first comic convention in Rivers State, PH City Comic Con has introduced initiatives that have left a tangible mark on the local scene. Its Artist Alley and Creative Spotlight segments have given illustrators, animators, authors and storytellers the visibility they need to grow their audiences and secure opportunities. For some participants, the convention has been more than just an enjoyable weekend; it has opened doors to new jobs, industry mentorships, and specialised training in areas such as 3D animation. In many cases, it has also been the first time that attendees have encountered African comic books, Barida Alawa mentioned, igniting an appreciation for homegrown stories and styles that might otherwise have gone unnoticed.

The commitment to prioritising local content is evident in every edition of the convention. While international pop culture influences remain part of the experience, she affirmed the spotlight is firmly on Nigerian creators, from comic book writers and animators to visual artists and filmmakers. Even the event’s promotional artwork draws from familiar cultural elements, incorporating character designs and symbols that resonate with the South-South region’s heritage. By consciously creating this balance, the organisers have built a space that not only entertains but also reinforces a sense of cultural identity.

For Alawa, inclusivity is just as important as authenticity. She insists that PH City Comic Con is not reserved for seasoned comic or anime fans, but is open to anyone curious enough to step inside. “The event is for everybody; we want people to pick an interest in comic books”, she said. 

Each year, the programme blends cosplay parades, panel discussions, short film screenings, vendor exhibitions and interactive workshops, ensuring that there is something to capture the interest of every visitor. The result is an atmosphere that is both energetic and welcoming, encouraging even first-timers to explore new forms of storytelling and creativity.

Beyond its entertainment value, the convention is steadily building a reputation as a cultural catalyst for Port Harcourt and the surrounding region. It has contributed to rekindling a reading culture, encouraging storytelling in visual formats, and amplifying African narratives within a global pop culture space. This year’s edition promises to be the largest yet, drawing creators and fans from across the country for a day of connection, discovery and celebration.

For more information and ticket sales, visit https://www.phcitycomiccon.com.ng/ or/and https://tix.africa/discover/phcitycomiccon