It was glitz and glamour at the maiden edition of the Firewood Jollof Festival, co-hosted by Showmax, a leading streaming platform and Firewood Rice Nigeria, which captured the essence of Nigeria’s culinary pride and cultural vibrancy.
The event which was held recently at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, witnessed over 5,000 food enthusiasts, celebrities and culture lovers.
The festival celebrated the universally loved firewood jollof rice which represents the heart and soul of Nigerian cuisine. Participants indulged in steaming plates of perfectly cooked jollof rice with its smoky aroma that filled the air, paired with delectable side dishes from local chefs and vendors.
According to Chizoma Chukwueke, Chief Executive Officer of Firewood Jollof Nigeria, the festival is an opportunity to honour the iconic dish and also a means to showcase Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage.
“Jollof rice is more than food, it is a symbol of unity, love and celebration. This festival is our way of honouring this iconic dish while showcasing Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage”, she said.
Star-Studded Lineup
The festival boasted an impressive lineup of celebrities who added glamour and excitement to the event. Record-breaking Chef Hilda Baci captivated attendees with her inspiring stories about the power of food in connecting people. Bisola Aiyeola and influencers like Tomike Adeoye and Enioluwa Adeoluwa entertained the audience with their infectious energy, including a dance battle that became a festival highlight.
Big Brother Naija stars, including Kingsley ‘Kayyrae’ Sule, his wife and fellow ex-housemate Kassia Sule, and Dorathy Bachor, mingled with fans, adding a touch of star power. DJs Wanni x Handi, also from BBNaija, set the stage on fire with electrifying music that kept the crowd dancing all day.
Showmax: At the Heart of the Festivities
Showmax, a leading streaming platform offered an interactive and engaging experience for attendees. Their booth was buzzing with activity, offering guests exclusive subscription vouchers with their food purchases. These vouchers granted access to a wide array of must-watch content, including Nigerian originals like Wura and global hits like The Hunger Games and Dune.
“At Showmax, we believe in celebrating culture and entertainment in all its forms, the Firewood Jollof Festival is the perfect blend of both and we are thrilled to be a part of this historic event”, said Jennifer Ukoh-Osamwonyi, PR Manager, Showmax Nigeria.
A Cultural Extravaganza
Beyond the food, the festival was a rich tapestry of Nigerian culture. Traditional dancers performed with infectious enthusiasm, while local artisans displayed handmade crafts and souvenirs. Families enjoyed the kid-friendly zone, which featured face painting and mini-cooking classes, creating cherished memories for all who attended.
Impact and Legacy
The Firewood Jollof Festival wasn’t just about celebration—it was about community. The organisers used the event to bring people together, highlighting the power of food and culture in creating lasting bonds.
As the festival concluded, attendees expressed their excitement for future editions. “This was more than a festival; it was an experience,” said attendee Funmi Adebayo. “I can’t wait to see how they’ll top this next year!”
Looking Ahead
With its mix of food, culture, and entertainment, the Firewood Jollof Festival has set a high standard for culinary events in Nigeria. As Showmax continues to blend entertainment with cultural celebration through its “Holiday Tree-Ts for You” campaign, audiences can look forward to more exciting experiences in the coming months.
For those who missed out, the Firewood Jollof Festival was a testament to the magic of bringing people together over a shared love for food, culture, and entertainment. It was a day when Lagos truly came alive, and jollof reigned supreme.
