Lagos residents defied downpour on Saturday night to attend the 2026 edition of the Knorr Jollof Fest held at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The Newsmen report that the annual culinary festival, the fourth edition sponsored by Unilever Nig. Plc., attracted thousands of food enthusiasts, chefs, culinary entrepreneurs and other stakeholders in Nigeria’s food industry.
In spite of rainfall, the event recorded a massive turnout of people from different parts of Lagos, including Igando, Alakuko, Ikorodu and other neighbouring communities, who gathered to celebrate Nigeria’s iconic local delicacy, Jollof Rice.
The festival featured culinary masterclasses, food exhibitions, entertainment performances, interactive sessions and cooking demonstrations showcasing different variations of Jollof Rice, including Smoky Jollof, Ofada-style Jollof and Rosto Jollof.
Mrs Bolanle Kehinde-Lawal, East and West Africa Head of Demand Creation, Foods, Unilever Nig. Plc., said that the festival had continued to resonate strongly with Nigerians.
“We have to bring the Nigerian flavour because of the emotional and cultural connection many people have with Jollof Rice,” she said.
Kehinde-Lawal said that the large turnout of people in spite of unfavourable weather conditions reflected the enduring popularity of the dish and the growing influence of food-centred events in bringing communities together.
“Nigerians love to have fun, it is a youthful population, with over 50 per cent of the population below 30 years, and they want to connect.
“For us, food is the bridge in Nigeria. Food is a passion pack. People enjoy connecting around food which is the essence of the Knorr Jollof Fest.
“Looking around, more people are still turning in to the event centre, there are more people coming every year.
“This is the fourth edition, and it just keeps getting better. We try to stay very close to our consumers,” she said.
A prominent Nigerian celebrity chef and the Chief Executive Officer of Orchid Bistro in Lagos popularly known as Dr Roberts, urged the participants to change their eating patterns.
“We need to change how we eat one plate at a time. We need to make the best jollof for the world.
“We all have our own jollof story and the reason we are here is to celebrate to enjoy and to realise the rich culture we have as Nigerians and how we make the best Jollof Rice in the world,” he said.
He emphasised the need for consistency in preparation of jollof rice for parties.
“There is always the challenge of consistent delivery of that Smokey Jollof. We have identified that gap and that is the essence of us coming up with the Knorr Party Jollof.
A first-time attendee, Miss Toluwani Olunloyo, described the experience as worthwhile and memorable.
“I can confidently say that attending the 2026 Knorr Jollof Fest was worth every effort, from defying the rain to spending time and resources to be here.
“The organisers delivered an exciting experience.
“Beyond the food, the entertainment, cultural displays and interactive activities made the event truly enjoyable,” she said.
Another participant, Miss Aliyah Adebiyi, who came from Alakuko, said the festival offered both fun and valuable learning opportunities.
“ I am leaving with practical knowledge on how to improve my cooking, especially when preparing Jollof Rice,” she said.
