In the sleepless streets of Lagos, where food beats to its own drum, food lovers gathered for an unforgettable extravaganza at the GTCO Food and Drink Festival from April 26 to 28, 2024, at the sprawling grounds of the GTCentre on Victoria Island, which was transformed into a bustling epicentre of culinary innovation and cultural celebration.
The seventh edition of the GTCO Food and Drink Festival, touted as the continent’s premier culinary event, kicked off with gusto, promising attendees an unforgettable experience rich in flavours, aromas, and cultural delights. Segun Agbaje, group chief executive officer of Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc, expressed his delight at welcoming participants from across Africa and beyond to indulge in a celebration not just of food, but of the diverse tapestry of cultures that make African cuisine truly unique.
“This event is a celebration of not just food, but of the rich tapestry of cultures and traditions that make African cuisine so unique,” Agbaje remarked. “Our vision for curating this consumer-focused event is unchanging. We hope to consistently create memorable moments for everyone while providing a free, vibrant, and commercially viable platform for small food businesses in Nigeria to grow and thrive.”
From the moment visitors set foot inside the festival grounds, they were greeted by tantalising aromas, live cooking demonstrations, and a bustling marketplace showcasing hundreds of food retailers. The festival boasted a wealth of activities catering to food lovers of all ages, including engaging masterclasses, interactive exhibits, and a specially curated play area for children.
The festival presented itself as more than just a celebration of food; but a fulfilling experience.
Chef masterclasses were a highlight of the event, featuring renowned culinary maestros such as Aldo Zilli and Robin McBride. Zilli delved into the nuances of Italian cuisine beyond pasta, while McBride offered insights into the art of wine tasting, taking attendees on a sensory journey through the world of viticulture.
But it was not just international flavours that stole the show. Attendees were treated to an array of traditional dishes and innovative fusion cuisines that showcased the continent’s rich culinary heritage. From the spicy and succulent skewered beef suya to the puffy puff puff, each bite offered an experience of flavours that delighted and engaged multiple senses and left taste buds craving more.
The festival’s street food lineup was a particular hit, with vendors teasing noses with grilled delicious treats that stirred memories of Lagos’ bustling street corners. From pitakiwa boli and grills to mouthwatering barbecue delights, attendees indulged in a basketfull of culinary delights that showcased the best of Nigerian cuisine.
So as the sun set on the final day of the festival, attendees departed with hearts and stomachs full, their minds buzzing with memories of a culinary adventure unlike any other.
For three exhilarating days, the GTCO Food and Drink Festival had brought together food lovers from far and wide to celebrate the universal joys of good food, good company, and good times. And as the lights dimmed on another successful edition, one thing was certain: the spirit of culinary innovation and cultural celebration would continue to thrive in the heart of Lagos for years to come.
