Organisers of the Firewood Jollof Festival say the second edition of their festival will promote Nigeria’s food heritage and strengthen African cultural unity.
The festival, themed ‘Unifying African Jollof’, will be held on 29 November 2025 at Samui Okola Park in 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 had evolved into a cultural movement that connects 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 said.
The festival 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 serve as partners.
Chukwueke commended Access Bank’s role in supporting small and medium enterprises.
“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 said.
The Marketing Director of Firewood Jollof, Chibuzor Chukwueke, said the festival was 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 the organisers expect over 20,000 attendees and participation from chefs across West Africa. Chukwueke 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, the Assistant Brand Manager of Devon Kings, Voke Emeje, 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 would create a rich brand experience at the festival 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.
The Firewood Jollof Festival, which debuted in 2024, continues to position Nigerian cuisine as a symbol of unity, heritage, and creative expression across Africa.
