By Ebunoluwa Sessou

The 7th edition of Nigeria’s largest indigenous food festival, Ofada Rice Day, lived up to expectations as music stars Salawa Abeni and Segun Johnson, alongside popular comedian Bro Shaggy and a host of leading artistes and comedians, thrilled thousands of attendees at the Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The event, themed “Eko Dun Joor,” attracted over 8,000 guests, celebrating the richness of Nigerian culture through food, music and entertainment. Organised by Ofadaboy, the festival once again positioned Ofada rice at the centre of the “Detty December” conversation, blending tradition with contemporary entertainment.

The festival brought together major brands, with Pocketmoni as headline sponsor, alongside Goldberg, Maltina, Fatgbems Group, Betnaija, Action Bitters, and partners including Golden Penny, MTN, Pepsi, Arthill Studio, among others, who delivered back-to-back audience engagements across various demographics.

Dignitaries from the Canadian Deputy High Commission, top officials of the Federal and Lagos State governments, as well as notable traditional rulers from the South-West, graced the colourful event.

Entertainment highlights included electrifying performances by Haruna Ishola, Reminisce, Dotun, Mide, Awesome Band, Elijah, SquardOne, Alex Osho, Lolo, Hyenana and ace comedian Gbenga Adeyinka, keeping the crowd on its feet.

Food vendors from across Ogun State, including Ikenne, Itoko and Iperu, showcased their culinary expertise, offering a wide range of delicacies that underscored the versatility and cultural significance of Ofada rice.

Commending the organisers, Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, praised Ofadaboy for its consistency and dedication to promoting indigenous food culture. She described the festival as a superlative show that has successfully led the Ofada rice narrative for seven consecutive years.

Similarly, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director-General of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism, lauded the brand’s commitment to projecting Nigerian cuisine on the global stage.

Speaking at the event, Creative Director of Ofadaboy, Tobi Fletcher, alongside Chief Operating Officer, Oyinda Fletcher, expressed gratitude to partners and attendees.
“This milestone is a testament to our passion for promoting Nigerian cuisine and culture. We are excited about the future and look forward to continuing this journey,” Fletcher said.

A leading name in food and hospitality, Ofadaboy operates a thriving restaurant, offers premium catering services, and produces packaged Ofada rice and spices. The brand has earned widespread recognition for its innovative role in championing Nigerian food and preserving local culinary heritage.