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By Henry Uche
The Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy has assured that the upcoming Maiden Nigerian Foods & Culture Festival (NFCF) would showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage, attract local and foreign investors and boost the economy.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa, made this known as the National Economic Council (NEC) approved the hosting of NFCF, slated for December 16–17, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, Onikan, Lagos.
Put together by Irabor Creative Minds and Partners in collaboration with the aforementioned Ministry and the Creative Economy, with the theme: “Proudly Nigerian, Globally Celebrated”, the event would showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through food, music, art, fashion, sports, and technology in one unifying celebration.
The NFCF aims to bring together families, fun lovers, and culture enthusiasts to celebrate the nation’s diversity, unity, and creative excellence.
In a remark, the Convener and Founder of Irabor Creative Minds, Mr. Jude Uwagbai Irabor, said the festival’s theme was inspired by the growing global recognition of Nigerian creativity and talent. “Whether it’s our cuisine, literature, music, fashion, sports, or industry, our Nigerian-ness is being celebrated globally. NFCF is a dedicated space to celebrate that excellence right here at home,” he stated.
Also speaking, the festival’s Communications Officer, Ada Onuorah, explained that the event would offer a unique opportunity for people—especially children, young adults, and tourists—to explore the different cultural aspects of the country.
She added that the festival would create vast opportunities for partnerships, networking, and socioeconomic growth, serving as a catalyst for community development and national unity. “It is an avenue for people to experience and explore the different cultural aspects of Nigeria—especially important for children, young adults, and tourists,” she emphasized. Kicking off by 10:00 a.m, the event will feature exhibitions, live performances, and cultural diversities from across the nation.
In line with its inclusive vision, every state and the Federal Capital Territory will participate through their respective Ministries of Art and Culture, highlighting Nigeria’s cultural and culinary diversity. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience authentic dishes, artistic expressions, and creative innovations from every part of the country.
The Fest will also serve as a major cultural highlight of the popular “Detty December” season, blending entertainment with economic opportunities.
According to the organisers, the NFCF represents more than just a festival—it is a platform for young Nigerians to express creativity, connect with opportunities, and celebrate excellence. “The festival embodies our vision of merging culture, commerce, and creativity to tell Nigeria’s story to the world,” the group added.
A major highlight of the festival will be the training and empowerment of selected youths across the country’s six geopolitical zones in fashion, culinary arts, adire-making, and more, by a non-governmental organization, the WealthHead Foundation.
The WealthHead Foundation, one of the festival’s partners, is reputed for empowering young Nigerians to become economically self-reliant by teaching them how to design and produce various local fabrics and fashion accessories.
