Nigeria is gearing up for a vibrant culinary showcase as GTCO Food & Drink Festival returns for its 9th edition, promising an even bigger and more immersive experience for food lovers across Africa and beyond.
Scheduled to run from May 1 to May 3, 2026, the three-day festival will take place at the GTCentre in Lagos. This year’s theme, “Everything Food and Drink,” reflects the event’s expansive celebration of culinary diversity, innovation, and shared experiences.
Organised by Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO), the festival continues to serve as a strategic platform for promoting enterprise within the food and beverage industry while delivering memorable experiences for attendees.
Speaking ahead of the event, GTCO Group CEO Segun Agbaje подчеркed the social and economic importance of food culture. He noted that the festival has consistently fostered meaningful connections between businesses and consumers, while also driving innovation in how people experience food and drink.
“The festival has grown into a living expression of innovation, opportunity, and enterprise that is accessible to all,” Agbaje said.
In response to rising demand, organisers have expanded the festival’s capacity. According to GTBank’s Head of Corporate Communications, Oyinade Adegite, the number of free vendor stalls has increased to 204—offering more small business owners the opportunity to showcase their products to thousands of expected visitors.
Adegite revealed that the vendors were selected through a rigorous and transparent process from over 6,000 applicants, with 90 percent of participants being first-timers—underscoring the festival’s commitment to inclusivity and fresh talent.
Beyond an array of local and international cuisines, the festival will feature masterclasses led by global chefs and food experts, a state-of-the-art children’s play area, live music, and a lively after-party. Entry remains free, reinforcing GTCO’s goal of making the experience accessible to all.
Over the years, GTCO has built a reputation for innovation and stakeholder engagement, supporting businesses through initiatives such as tailored credit facilities for the food and fashion sectors.
As anticipation builds, the 2026 edition of the GTCO Food & Drink Festival is poised to once again transform Lagos into a hub of flavor, culture, and enterprise—bringing together thousands in a shared celebration of food.
