Inside GTCO Food & Drink Festival: How Lagos Is Building a Global Food Economy

Inside GTCO Food & Drink Festival: How Lagos Is Building a Global Food Economy

Lagos transformed into a vibrant hub of culinary excellence as thousands of food enthusiasts, vendors, and international guests gathered for the 2026 GTCO Food & Drink Festival, a three-day celebration showcasing global cuisine, innovation, and the growing dynamism of Nigeria’s food industry.

The 2026 edition of the GTCO Food & Drink Festival, themed “Everything Food and Drink,” lived up to its promise by capturing the full richness of culinary expression across diverse cultures. The annual event brought together a cosmopolitan mix of food lovers, entrepreneurs, and industry players, reinforcing Lagos’ reputation as a leading destination for food and lifestyle experiences in Africa.

According to the organisers, the festival recorded overwhelming interest, with over 6,000 applications received from food and beverage vendors. Out of these, more than 200 participants were carefully selected and provided with free retail stalls, creating opportunities for small and medium-scale businesses to showcase their products to a large audience.

The event featured an extensive array of offerings, ranging from traditional Nigerian delicacies to contemporary international cuisine. Attendees explored a wide variety of flavors while engaging directly with vendors, chefs, and culinary innovators, creating an atmosphere defined by creativity, commerce, and cultural exchange.

An international attendee from Lebanon, Tarek Furey, described the festival as a strong reflection of Lagos’ evolution and vibrancy. Speaking with The Legend News, he noted that the event represents “the evolving Lagos” and captures “the hype of Lagos,” adding that such initiatives should continue to be promoted globally. When asked about areas for improvement, he expressed complete satisfaction, stating that the event met his expectations.

Vendors also reported positive outcomes, with many highlighting increased sales and business visibility. One participant noted that beyond strong sales, the festival has contributed to expanding market reach and strengthening customer engagement. However, suggestions were made for future editions to include more interactive and engaging activities to further enhance the experience and attract even larger audiences.

The GTCO Food & Drink Festival remains a flagship platform for promoting culinary excellence, supporting food entrepreneurs, and fostering meaningful connections within the industry. As Lagos continues to grow as a cultural and commercial powerhouse, the festival stands as a testament to the city’s thriving food ecosystem and its global appeal.