Organisers of the Firewood Jollof Festival say the second edition of their event will promote Nigeria’s food heritage and strengthen African cultural unity.
The festival, themed “Unifying African Jollof,” will take place on 29 November 2025 at Samui Okola Park, Lagos, from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
In a statement, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Firewood Jollof, Chizoma Chukwueke, said the festival has evolved into a cultural movement connecting Africans and the diaspora through food.
“The inspiration behind Firewood Jollof is how our mothers cooked it when we were growing up. That smoky, earthy taste from the firewood is part of our heritage. We’re here to preserve the original essence of this iconic dish,” she said.
Chukwueke described this year’s edition, tagged Firewood Jollof 2.0, as “bigger, better, and more immersive,” adding that it would “unite Africa through our shared love for Jollof.”
One of the festival’s highlights will be the unveiling of a special dish called West African Jollof, a creative blend of cooking traditions and ingredients from Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Kenya.
“We’re going to have chefs from across Africa come together to create something truly symbolic a Jollof that embodies the spirit of African unity,” she explained.
The event will feature celebrity appearances, live performances, cooking competitions, a kids’ fun zone, and experience areas powered by corporate sponsors.
Access Bank is the official sponsor for the 2025 edition, while Devon Kings Oil, MTN Nigeria, and Nestlé Pure Life are listed as partners.
Chukwueke commended Access Bank for supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
“This festival provides a platform for small businesses to showcase their products, connect with customers, and generate revenue. Access Bank is holding our hands through it all,” she noted.
The Marketing Director of Firewood Jollof, Chibuzor Chukwueke, said the festival is driving food tourism and entrepreneurship.
“Last year, we had about 35 small-scale businesses participate. This year, we’re looking to double that number. When you have small businesses networking, selling, and growing, you’re already contributing to Nigeria’s economic growth,” he said.
He added that organisers expect over 20,000 attendees and participation from chefs across West Africa. He also revealed plans to expand the festival beyond Lagos.
“Next year, we’re taking the Firewood Jollof Festival interstate and, with the right partnerships, to another African country maybe even London,” he hinted.
Also speaking, Voke Emeje, Assistant Brand Manager of Devon Kings, said the brand’s collaboration with Firewood Jollof aligns with its values.
“Firewood Jollof is about uniting people through food, and that aligns perfectly with our brand positioning Taste That Binds. We want to help build memories through shared experiences,” she said.
She added that Devon Kings will create a rich brand experience through product sampling, games, and giveaways.
“There’ll be food, games, prizes, and a lot of fun. We want everyone to feel nourished, both physically and emotionally,” she added.
Debuting in 2024, the Firewood Jollof Festival continues to position Nigerian cuisine as a symbol of unity, heritage, and creative expression across Africa.
