By The Merit Newspaper
The National Economic Council (NEC) has approved the hosting of the maiden Nigerian Foods & Culture Festival (NFCF), a groundbreaking national event scheduled to hold from December 16–17, 2025, at the Tafawa Balewa Square Cricket Oval, Onikan, Lagos.
Organized by Irabor Creative Minds & Partners in collaboration with the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, the festival—tagged “Proudly Nigerian, Globally Celebrated”—is designed to showcase Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage through food, music, art, fashion, sports, and technology in one unifying celebration.
Following the NEC approval, the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hon. Hannatu Musa Musawa, officially unveiled the national programme at an event attended by key stakeholders in Abuja.
Described as the first of its kind in the country, the NFCF aims to bring together Nigerian families, fun lovers, and culture enthusiasts to celebrate the nation’s diverse traditions and creative excellence.
In his remarks, the Convener and Founder of Irabor Creative Minds, Mr. Jude Uwagbai Irabor, said the theme was inspired by the growing global recognition of Nigerian creativity and talent.
“Whether it’s our cuisine, literature, music, fashion, sports, or industry, our Nigerian-ness is being celebrated globally. The NFCF is a dedicated space to celebrate that excellence right here at home,” he stated.
Also speaking, the festival’s Communications Officer, Ada Onuorah, explained that the event would offer a rare opportunity for people—especially children, young adults, and tourists—to explore the different cultural aspects of the country.
She added that the festival would create vast opportunities for partnerships, networking, and socioeconomic growth, serving as a catalyst for community development and national unity.
“It is an avenue for people to experience and explore the different cultural aspects of Nigeria—especially important for children, young adults, and tourists,” she emphasized.
A statement released by the organisers further described the NFCF as “a flagship national platform created to celebrate Nigeria’s phenomenal cultural diversity—unifying food, music, art, fashion, sports, and technology under one vibrant, cohesive event.”
The spectacular two-day celebration will run from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily, featuring exhibitions, live performances, and cultural showcases from across the nation.
In line with its inclusive vision, all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) will participate through their respective Ministries of Art and Culture, highlighting the nation’s cultural and culinary diversity. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience authentic foods, artistic expressions, and innovations from every part of Nigeria.
The festival is expected to attract thousands of participants, fostering cultural exchange, national pride, and creative industry growth.
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Positioned as a wholesome, family-friendly experience, the Nigerian Foods & Culture Festival will also serve as a major cultural highlight for the popular “Detty December” season, blending entertainment with economic opportunities.
Behind the event is Irabor Creative Minds, an organization focused on youth empowerment and cultural development, founded by Mr. Jude Uwagbai Irabor. The group’s mission is to support and empower Nigerian youth and startups through mentorship, innovation, and creative initiatives.
Known for its strong commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR), the organization has spearheaded projects aimed at rebuilding communities, promoting entrepreneurship, and fostering national unity through culture.
According to the organisers, the NFCF represents more than just a festival—it is a platform for young Nigerians to express creativity, connect with opportunities, and celebrate excellence.
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“The festival embodies our vision of merging culture, commerce, and creativity to tell Nigeria’s story to the world,” the statement concluded.
