The GTCO Food & Drink Festival, held in the bustling heart of Lagos State—Oniru, Victoria Island to be precise—brought together food lovers, chefs, vendors, and adventurers in a vibrant celebration that showcased the diversity and depth of Nigeria’s culinary scene, enriched by international influences.
The 3-day event, which ran from May 2nd to May 4th, drew thousands of attendees from all walks of life and featured over a hundred food vendors offering a wide range of local and international delicacies. From classic Nigerian staples such as suya, amala and ewedu, jollof rice, bole, and grilled proteins, to convenient finger foods like small chops, popsicles, and popcorn, the festival catered to a broad palate. It provided an avenue to unwind, network, and connect through the unique opportunity for culinary exploration.
A major highlight was the cooking masterclass sessions, where professional chefs—including LORENZO COGO, who became one of the youngest chefs to receive a Michelin star at age 25—took the stage to demonstrate techniques and share recipes from across the globe. Attendees were introduced to Thai stir-fry, Italian pasta-making, and North African spice blends, among other culinary arts. These sessions attracted large audiences, many of whom engaged with the chefs during live Q&A segments, followed by taste-testing of the prepared dishes.
Beyond food, the event celebrated Nigerian culture and fashion. Attendees showed up in style, adding flair to the festive atmosphere. Organizers distributed numerous freebies, cash gifts, and shopping vouchers, enhancing the overall experience.
The crowd was diverse—families, young professionals, tourists, and media representatives—many of whom took the opportunity to capture and share photos and videos of the beautifully arranged dishes and lively performances. Social media buzz surrounding the event surged, with widespread praise for its organization, variety, and the blend of local and global culinary representation.
One vendor, the owner of the popular *Abeke Alamala*, who showcased the Yoruba delicacy *Abula*, remarked, “This kind of platform allows small businesses like mine to connect with new customers and also learn from other cultures.”
The GTCO Food & Drink Festival continues to grow in popularity, firmly establishing itself as a key event on the city’s cultural calendar—especially notable for its completely free entry, making it accessible to a wide audience.
Overall, the 2025 edition was a resounding success—bridging tradition and innovation, community and cuisine.
