The event is the sort that lingers in the memory long after it has held. Different International chefs from around the world, witnessed the event tagged -Gtbank Food and Drink Fair 2018.
The annual fair which lasted from April 29th to May 1, held at Oniru-Lekki, Lagos. Its aim is to connect buyers and sellers in the food and drink enterprise from different parts of the country, enabling them showcase their products and innovation in the million dollar industry and also display the unique and rich Nigerian food culture thus promoting enterprise and free business platforms for small businesses.
Over 150 businesses with the beauty and variety of street foods and confectioneries were showcased at the fair. Besides the deliciousness of those street dishes which leaves lasting memories, their low prices and accessibility to all make the Lagos experience unforgettable, There were, among others, puff puff, run run, abacha, akara. The foods at the event by the different vendors were presented in a unique way and customers who came close to the outlets were encouraged to have a taste.
Like many of the food vendors at the fair, Grace, of Aion farms, saw the event as an opportunity to sell her product. “We are into fish farming and we can help you set up your farm. We also deliver our product at your doorstep,” she said.
Another staple showcased during the fair is the Nigerian Ofada rice. Olu Sokoya, one of the ofada vendors said his company feels honoured to be part of the 2018 fair as it has been a successful outing for them. “We feel honoured to display our product to the society and we are also satisfied that the taste of our meal is spicy.” Apart from Ofada, there was also Banga rice which aroma filled the complex.
Many families came around to witness the food and drinks fair. Jerry chukwuma was one of them. The man, who came with his family, said he’s a first timer at the event and is excited witnessing the event “A lot of food, a lot of drinks and also many beautiful things to see. It is an event you can make a choice and also learn a few things. as you can see I am here with my family having fun. We were aware of this event last year but couldn’t make it. Now here we are,” he said.
Siba Mtongana, a South African chef, born and raised in east London who was part of the international chefs that participants in the food and drinks fair, said she feels fulfilled being a chef.” If my parent had their way, I would have ended up being a lawyer, doctor or politician. But I convinced them to allow me to choose food as a career. Today, I create my recipes for people who are on the go, who love to be entertained and also for those who have good taste,” she said.
Additional report by Timilehin Okunuga
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