By Juliet Umeh

The organiser of Port Harcourt’s popular Bole Festival, Nonii Entertainment, has said the annual event has not only created jobs and spurred business growth but also boosted tourism in Rivers State.

Chief Executive Officer of Nonii Entertainment, Chinonso Iwuh, said the festival has grown into one of Africa’s most vibrant cultural gatherings, positioning the Rivers capital as a hub for cultural tourism.

According to him, “The festival’s growth shows the power of culture to generate jobs, promote local businesses, and foster community development.”

He explained that what began in 2016 with about 300 food lovers has expanded into a major attraction, drawing more than 40,000 participants in 2025.

Iwuh added: “It celebrates bole, a roasted plantain delicacy from Nigeria’s Niger Delta, often served with fish. But beyond food, the festival has broadened its scope to include live music, fashion shows, art exhibitions, and food demonstrations.”

This year’s edition attracted major sponsorships from global brands such as Guinness, Johnnie Walker, MTN, Campari, Maggi, and Moniepoint. The British Council Nigeria also supported the festival by sponsoring 10 emerging artists, providing a platform for young Nigerians to showcase their talent.

Organisers further noted that the Rivers State Government has remained a consistent supporter, helping to create commercial opportunities for vendors, artisans, and small businesses, while also promoting the region’s cultural heritage.

They described the festival as “a reunion of culture, food, and people,” stressing that it has grown beyond a celebration to become an economic driver.

Iwuh stated that Port Harcourt is now leveraging the festival to strengthen its place in West Africa’s cultural tourism landscape.