The Nigeria Food Summit 2025 was successfully held at the iconic Landmark Centre, Lagos, bringing together top chefs, culinary innovators, food entrepreneurs, policymakers, and industry leaders under the powerful theme: “Making Nigeria a Global Food Destination.” The event marked one of the largest gatherings in Nigeria’s food industry, aimed at driving innovation, collaboration, and sustainability across the food value chain.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Food Industry Experts
The summit attracted top personalities and celebrated chefs including Anjola Awosika, Tolani Tayo-Osikoya (Diary of a Kitchen Lover), Hilda Baci, Ayo Bankole, and Kitchen Amuse. These food leaders shared strategic insights on launching food businesses, sustainability in the industry, and the importance of representing Nigerian culture through cuisine.
Powerful Panel Sessions Addressing the Future of Food in Nigeria
The Nigeria Food Summit 2025 featured four impactful panel sessions focused on critical issues in the food sector:
- “The Past, Present, and Future of the Nigerian Food Industry” – Moderated by Bukola Benson, featuring thought leaders like Iquo Ukoh, Michael Williams, Paul Kavanagh, and Dr. Eric.
- “Launching, Sustaining, and Scaling a Food Business in Nigeria” – Led by Bukkie Akinmade, with panelists including Anjola Awosika, Eunice Adeyemi, Abiola Adelana, and Gbenga Sosan.
- “A Fully Automated Food Industry: The Future is Tech” – Moderated by Uzo Orimalade, with key voices such as Vera Ebhohon, Ted Oladele, Toheeb Bakare, Luther Lawoyin, Tanaz Bahnam, Chikodi Ukaiwe, and Aghuienoh Tarek discussing the intersection of food and technology in Nigeria.
- “Running a Business in Nigeria: Beyond the Clout” – Moderated by Uju Ameshi, this session included inspiring stories from Victory Jumbo, Hilda Baci, Modupe Emmanuel, Olapeju Umar, and Malaika.
- “Chef’s Table” – Featuring top chefs like Chef Nick (Vice President, APCN), Chef Amaka (President, CAPA), and Chef Ik from Ghana, the discussion focused on culinary excellence and cross-border food collaboration.
Hands-On Masterclasses Empower Foodpreneurs
Attendees enjoyed expert-led masterclasses by Anjola Awosika, Chef Miyonsea, Chef Tucker, Chef TYB, and Omoye Cooks, covering key topics such as:
- The history of Nigerian cuisine
- Plating and molecular gastronomy
- Food styling and content creation
- Canapé table spreads and food photography
- Farm-to-table culinary practices
Additionally, the live recording of the “One Bite at a Time” podcast by Chef Vee and Chef Wu added a dynamic and interactive element to the summit.
Driving Vision and Investment in Nigeria’s Food Industry
Chef Gbolabo Adebakin (Chef Gibbs), the convener of the Nigeria Food Summit, gave a compelling opening address, urging Nigerian food professionals to preserve and promote the country’s rich culinary heritage.
“Nigeria’s culinary heritage is one of the richest in the world, yet it remains underrepresented globally. This summit is a call to action… we must innovate, collaborate, and harness our local resources to make Nigeria a true food destination.”
$1 Million Food Fund Launched to Support Entrepreneurs
One of the major highlights was the keynote speech by Kola Oyeneyin, who announced a $1 million fund dedicated to scaling food businesses in Nigeria.
“Access to capital is crucial. This fund empowers food entrepreneurs to scale, innovate, and compete globally. Investing in food is not just about business — it’s about securing the future of our economy.”
Pitch-a-thon Competition Rewards Food Innovation
The Pitch-a-thon Contest saw emerging food entrepreneurs present innovative ideas, with Elizabeth Toluwalope Akinwole of Tblizs Foods emerging as the winner. She received ₦1 million worth of business support from County Support Consulting, an all-expense-paid resort trip sponsored by Torrista, branding support by Snappcode Productions, and mentorship from Food Business Consultant.
Summit Partners and Food Sponsors Elevate the Experience
The summit was supported by top brands including:
- Corporate Partners: Sterling Bank, Nestlé Pure Life, Glovo, Maggi, Isivini, Opay, AddMe, Power Oil, My Food Angels, OmniRetail, FMN, and more.
- Food Sponsors: Eric Kayser, Celebrazioni, Loaves and Nuts, Home of Tasty Meals, Delinas, Nitascents Kitchen, Asher4920, Proveg, Chumpes Pot, Peppersoup Shop, Happy Coffee, and others.
These partners played a key role in providing both logistical support and a world-class culinary experience for all attendees.
Nigeria Food Summit 2025 Sets the Pace for Africa’s Culinary Future
The Nigeria Food Summit 2025 has solidified its reputation as a game-changing platform for food innovation in Africa. By bringing together key players across the food industry, the summit not only highlighted the potential of Nigeria’s culinary landscape but also laid the foundation for economic growth, food security, and global recognition of Nigerian cuisine.