… positions Nigerian street food as the next frontier in cultural exports
the world celebrated World Food Day, a United Nations observance
day celebrated annually to commemorate the date of the founding of the United Nations Food
and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 1945. It is a day that reminds us how the food we eat tells
a story about who we are and where we come from. It is also a way to share our culture and
connect with our shared humanity.
Food plays a central role in our lives, no matter where we come from or who we are. In China,
their New Year feast is a time for families to come together and celebrate the start of a new
year, and in Mexico, the Day of the Dead celebration is a time to remember and honour loved
ones who have passed away, of which food is an important aspect.
In Nigeria, our cuisine is an important aspect of Nigerian shared culture because it reflects the
country’s diversity of ethnic groups, languages, and religions. Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic
groups, each with its own unique culinary traditions. These traditions are passed down from
generation to generation, and they play an important role in Nigerian culture and identity.
On October 1, 2023, 3X4 Gourmet, a renowned food brand specializing in authentic African
food, culture, and experiences, hosted the Lagos Street Food Celebration at Tafawa Balewa
Square, Lagos Island. The event was an initiative to push Nigerian street food cuisine as the
next frontier in the country’s cultural exports.
The Lagos Street Food Celebration was a resounding success with attendees enjoying a variety
of delicious street food dishes representing the diversity and complexity of Nigeria and its
people. The menu highlighted the evolution and globalization of Nigerian food, from traditional
favourites like akara and moi moi to more modern creations like guinea fowl meatballs and
Zobo-flavoured cocktails.
“We are thrilled with the success of the Lagos Street Food Celebration,” said Banke
Makinde, founder of 3X4 Gourmet. “Our goal was to showcase the richness and diversity of
Nigerian street food cuisine to a wider audience, and we are confident that we have
achieved that goal. The event was a celebration of Nigerian culture and heritage, and we
are grateful to all who attended and supported it.”
The event also featured cultural entertainment such as traditional dance performances and art
exhibits by indigenous talents. The organizers collaborated with the curator to host a multi-
sensory art exhibition that added a fun and interactive element to the event, showcasing the
best of Nigerian street food culture. One of the featured artists was Ahmed Abiodun whose
sculptor “Chop Beta” was a captivating life-size sculpture installation that celebrated one of
Lagos’ most beloved street snacks – Puff Puff. The Lagos Street Food Celebration was more
than just a culinary event, it was also a celebration of Nigerian culture and heritage.
Banke continued, “I am so proud of what we accomplished with the Lagos Street Food
Celebration. It was an incredible event that showcased the best of Nigerian street food
cuisine and culture. I believe that Nigerian street food cuisine has the potential to be a
major cultural export for Nigeria. It is delicious, diverse, and affordable. I am committed
to continuing to promote Nigerian street food cuisine and helping it to reach a global
audience.”
The Lagos Street Food Celebration is a showcase of Nigerian ingenuity and a sign that Nigerian
street food cuisine is on the rise. With growing global interest in African culture, there is a
growing movement to elevate Nigeria’s cuisine to the same status as other global cuisines, and
street food will be at the forefront of the push. Through 3×4 Gourmet’s initiative, Nigeria’s street
food cuisine is being elevated and celebrated.
The event was sponsored by key organisations in the industry and beyond, including the
Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC), Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts &
Culture, Bank of Industry, BUA Foods, and Flour Mills Nigeria, among others.
Published on Brandfit
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