Abayomi Susan
The 9th edition of the GTCO Food and Drink Festival 2026 has opened in grand style, transforming the GTCentre in Oniru, Victoria Island into what is widely recognised as Africa’s largest culinary marketplace. Scheduled to run from May 1 to May 3, this year’s edition is themed “Everything Food and Drink,” reflecting the dynamism, diversity, and growing entrepreneurial strength within Nigeria’s food ecosystem.
Organised by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), the festival has evolved from a seasonal attraction into a leading cultural and economic platform. Featuring over 200 complimentary retail stalls—approximately 90 per cent of which are first-time participants—the event is creating significant opportunities for small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) to gain visibility, connect with consumers, and expand their market reach.
The festival is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and delivers a rich culinary experience, showcasing traditional Nigerian dishes, street food, pastries, premium beverages, and international cuisines. Visitors are also participating in a series of masterclasses and live cooking demonstrations facilitated by renowned local and international chefs.
Day one highlights included baking demonstrations by Dera Oluyede and Kemi Anazodo, as well as international culinary showcases by Dylan Eitharong of Thailand, Begoña Rodrigo of Spain, and Italy’s Paolo Griffa. These sessions are designed to enhance culinary skills while encouraging cross-cultural exchange and innovation.
Beyond gastronomy, the festival also promotes financial inclusion and business development. According to GTCO’s Chief Communication Officer, Oyinade Adegite, vendors utilising GTCO point-of-sale terminals are eligible for merchant loans of up to ₦30 million, providing critical access to funding that extends beyond the festival period.
The event maintains a strong family-oriented appeal, featuring a dedicated children’s play area and a range of activities designed for younger attendees, thereby strengthening its community engagement.
Since its inception, the GTCO Food and Drink Festival has become a key platform for emerging food entrepreneurs, many of whom leverage the event to build brand awareness, gather customer insights, and scale their businesses. This year alone recorded over 6,000 vendor applications, highlighting the festival’s growing prestige and competitiveness.
With free admission for all attendees, the festival continues through Sunday, May 3, reinforcing its mission to democratise opportunities within Nigeria’s food industry while celebrating the unifying power of food and culture.
