Nigeria has taken a bold step in cultural diplomacy and culinary innovation as the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in partnership with Novarosta, unveiled Oríkì an immersive cultural and culinary showcase designed to celebrate African excellence and promote Nigeria as a global tourism destination.
The historic event, scheduled for Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Eagle’s Square, Abuja, will bring together government officials, international partners, investors, chefs, creatives, and cultural ambassadors from across Africa and the diaspora.
Themed “When Culture Meets Cuisine, the World Connects,” the event aims to merge heritage with innovation, presenting Nigeria’s artistry, diversity, and hospitality to the world.
Inspired by the ancient art of African praise poetry, Oríkì pays homage to Nigeria’s cultural richness through poetry, music, dance, and haute cuisine. Guests will experience a sensory journey featuring regional food pavilions, modern reinterpretations of local dishes, and live performances that celebrate Yoruba Oríkì, Igbo Aha Otuto, Hausa Kirari, and Itsekiri Eré.
The Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa, commended NIHOTOUR’s initiative, describing Oríkì as a catalyst for unity and global recognition.
“Culinary art has the power to unite us beyond borders. Through food and culture, we discover our shared humanity. Oríkì is a profound expression of who we are as Africans — proud, creative, and united by heritage,” she said.
Musawa reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which seeks to harness culture, tourism, and the creative economy as engines of national growth and job creation.
The Director-General of NIHOTOUR, Dr. Abisoye Fagade, described Oríkì as a turning point for Nigeria’s hospitality and tourism industry.
“Through Oríkì, we are transforming Nigeria’s living traditions into global experiences — connecting art, culture, and cuisine to drive prosperity and pride. This is how we make hospitality a national export,” he said.
The event also marked the launch of the Cultural Gastronomy Investment Series, a new platform to attract investors and international partners to Nigeria’s culinary and creative economy.
Oríkì aligns with NIHOTOUR’s Mission 100 Vision, which aims to build Africa’s most dynamic tourism workforce while promoting heritage, creativity, and innovation.
Novarosta, co-organisers of the event, emphasised the project’s global significance.
“Culture is the heartbeat of hospitality, and hospitality is the face of Nigeria. Oríkì reflects how both can unite a nation and inspire the world,” the organisation stated.
With its blend of cultural artistry, gastronomy, and investment appeal, Oríkì is poised to position Nigeria as a beacon of African creativity and a destination of choice for global tourists and investors alike.
