Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has commended the annual Lagos Food Festival for its far-reaching impact, stating that the initiative has strengthened entrepreneurial capacity over the past six years while providing a platform for families to connect and celebrate the state’s vibrant and diverse food culture.
Addressing attendees on Sunday at the 2025 Lagos Food Festival held at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, the governor actively took part in the festivities by preparing and sampling seafood rice served with stir-fried spinach. With the theme “Taste Beyond Borders,” the event showcased a blend of indigenous and international cuisines, complemented by live music performances and engaging activities for residents.
According to Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos Food Festival is one of the flagship programmes of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems. He noted that the ministry has implemented several initiatives focused on agriculture and food security, which have helped empower entrepreneurs and support innovation within the food industry. He explained that beyond economic empowerment, the festival serves as a social gathering point for families to relax, interact, and experience the diversity of food cultures that define Lagos. “Food is one of the strongest ways through which we tell the Lagos story,” he said.
The governor further highlighted that the festival promotes growth in catering and food-related businesses while strengthening unity and mutual cultural appreciation among residents. He described his cooking experience as symbolic of the festival’s essence, noting that it brings families together, encourages players in the food sector, and celebrates what makes Lagos unique.
During the event, Sanwo-Olu also toured an art exhibition featuring approximately 40 wall paintings created by local artists. He described the artworks as a true representation of Lagos’ creative spirit, stressing the importance of continuously empowering people and supporting diverse skills and professions to ensure Lagos remains safe, inclusive, and welcoming to all.
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Also speaking at the festival, the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, described the event as a comprehensive celebration of Lagos’ identity and culinary legacy. She stated that the Lagos Food Festival captures the essence of the state through its food, traditions, entertainment, and cultural expressions, emphasizing that food reflects the diversity of Lagos.
Olusanya explained that the festival offers critical visibility for stakeholders across the food value chain, providing emerging entrepreneurs with opportunities to gain recognition and grow their brands. She noted that several individuals have risen to prominence through the festival, often encouraged by the governor’s personal engagement as he tastes their meals and offers motivational support. She added that the event also serves to consolidate the ministry’s various interventions over the years while celebrating those contributing to food production and availability across the state.
The festival drew a wide range of attendees, including members of the State Executive Council and House of Assembly, public officials, political and traditional leaders, celebrity chefs, young people, vendors, and students from tertiary institutions. Participants displayed their culinary talents throughout the event, with outstanding creations earning prizes and recognition.
