Nigerian cuisine took centre stage at the 2025 Lagos Food Festival as the annual event returned with a colourful celebration of flavours, culture and youthful energy, drawing residents, food lovers and key stakeholders in the state’s food ecosystem.

The festival, themed “Taste Beyond Borders,” was held at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, where visitors were treated to a wide range of local, African and international delicacies, alongside live music and vibrant cultural displays.

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who attended the event, highlighted the city’s rich food culture and creative spirit, describing Lagos as a place defined by unique flavours and an unmistakable energy. The governor engaged with residents and vendors and also demonstrated his culinary skills by personally preparing seafood rice and stir-fried spinach, drawing excitement from attendees.

Sharing his experience, Sanwo-Olu said the festival reflected the true spirit of Lagos, blending food, music and social interaction in a way that showcases the city’s identity. He also noted that the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems has continued to empower entrepreneurs across the food value chain, adding that the festival provides Lagosians with an opportunity to unwind while celebrating the state’s culinary heritage.

The Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, said the state government remains committed to promoting all that defines Lagos, particularly its vibrant and diverse food culture. According to her, Lagos’ multicultural character gives its cuisine a distinctive appeal that deserves global recognition.

Beyond the food exhibitions, the festival featured live cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs and culinary showcases by students from tertiary institutions, including Yaba College of Technology, Lagos State University of Technology (LASUSTECH) and the University of Lagos. Several participants displayed their culinary talents and were rewarded with prizes.

The event attracted members of the Lagos State Executive Council and House of Assembly, current and former public office holders, political and traditional leaders, celebrity chefs, youths, food vendors and students from across the state.

The Lagos Food Festival, now in its sixth edition, has grown into a major platform for celebrating Nigerian and African cuisine, bringing together mouth-watering seafood, local dishes, fruit juices and drinks, while promoting innovation and entrepreneurship within the food industry.