By Kenneth Oboh

In a world increasingly dominated by digital screens, Saturday is revitalizing the social dining Nigeria scene by bringing people back to genuine face-to-face connections through curated weekend dining experiences.

Recently launched, the AI matching dinner app invites Nigerians to rediscover the joy of authentic conversations and community over great food in Lagos dinner events and Abuja social dining gatherings.

At the heart of Saturday is a simple yet transformative process designed to connect like-minded individuals while celebrating Nigeria’s rich culture and social spirit. Participants begin by taking the Naija Quiz algorithm, a personality and interest-based questionnaire tailored to Nigerian tastes and lifestyles.

The platform’s smart, algorithm-powered social events engine then matches each participant with four to five others who share common interests but come from diverse backgrounds, ensuring balanced, engaging dinner groups that foster meaningful interactions and lifelong connections. This unique blend encourages cultural exchange, fresh perspectives, and genuine friendships that transcend everyday encounters.

“Saturday is a day Nigerians cherish for rest, bonding, and making memories,” said Ayo Kolapo, founder and CEO of Saturday. “Our mission is to amplify that energy by creating a space where new friendships, partnerships, and stories are born naturally.”

Once matched, guests gain access to a pre-dinner group chat 24 hours before the event, breaking the ice and building anticipation. The exact venue is revealed a day ahead, featuring some of the city’s best restaurants—from the upscale Nok by Alara in Victoria Island dining hotspots to the trendy Hard Rock Café rooftop.

Safety is paramount: all venues are carefully vetted, members complete ID-verified events enrollment, and optional women-friendly tables are available for added comfort.

Priced transparently to fit various social calendars, Saturday offers one-time experiences starting at ₦10,000 and monthly dinner subscription plans for frequent diners, including VIP memberships with exclusive perks and priority booking. The clear, transparent event pricing makes joining easy for both locals and expat events Lagos enthusiasts.

The impact is already tangible. Among many stories is that of Myron Timilehin, who found a lifelong circle through Saturday’s “We Met on Saturday” dinners.

“What started as a books and literature-themed dinner in Lekki themed dinners turned into a monthly tradition with friends who have become family,” Myron shared. “We’ve supported each other through life’s ups and downs, all because a matching algorithm brought us together over dinner.”

Now in July 2025, Saturday is welcoming everyone eager to expand their social circles and create meaningful weekend memories. The platform actively encourages cultural appreciation through cultural exchange dinner nights celebrating Nigerian heritage, music, and cuisine.

Participants pay for their meals individually, with Saturday’s fee covering matching services, venue arrangements, and hosting. Dietary restrictions are carefully accommodated, and flexible cancellation policies suit busy lifestyles, making it one of the most affordable group dining Nigeria options for people with hectic schedules.

As Nigeria navigates an era of digital fatigue and social disconnection, Saturday shines as a beacon for mindful weekend experiences. Plans are underway to extend the experience to other major cities, deepen collaborations with chefs and cultural partners, and create a nationwide movement where Saturdays become synonymous with connection, culture, and celebration.