The aroma of traditional delicacies and the spirit of cultural celebration marked the start of the Cuisine Competition at the 36th National Festival of Arts and Culture (NAFEST) on November 24, 2024. Held at the Arts and Crafts Village, Abuja, this year’s event showcases Nigeria’s indigenous culinary treasures while promoting the export potential of local dishes.

A total of 13 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) are participating in this year’s competition, each presenting unique ingredients and time-honored recipes. The event, dubbed the “Jollof Wars,” is being judged by a panel of culinary experts, including Mr. Godfrey Odoh and Mrs. Ngozi Obasa. The judges will evaluate entries over the five-day competition, highlighting creativity, taste, and cultural authenticity.

The Director-General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Mr. Obi Asika, officially declared the competition open, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Nigeria’s culinary heritage and its ability to foster unity and economic growth. “This competition underscores our commitment to promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural identity and positioning our cuisine for global recognition,” he stated.

Dignitaries in attendance included state commissioners, permanent secretaries, and other stakeholders, who enjoyed live music, dance performances, and the opportunity to sample diverse dishes.

Following a spirited opening round, 11 states—Rivers, Borno, Nasarawa, Ekiti, Adamawa, Niger, Delta, Lagos, Plateau, Bayelsa, and the FCT—qualified for the next stage of the competition.

The Jollof Wars at NAFEST 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience, spotlighting Nigeria’s culinary diversity and its connection to the nation’s broader cultural heritage. The grand finale of the competition will take place on November 28, 2024, with winners set to receive recognition for their contributions to preserving and promoting Nigerian cuisine.