Adekunle Gold, Kayla Oniwo, Tobi Bakre Lit up Knorr Jollof Festival
Stories by Vanessa Obioha
It was another jollof-filled celebration last weekend as Knorr, the seasoning brand, drew hundreds of Lagosians to Muri Okunola Park on Victoria Island for the fourth edition of the Knorr Jollof Festival. Not even the threat of rain could keep the crowd away from what is gradually becoming a fixture on Nigeria’s culinary festival calendar.
True to its name, the festival showcased different interpretations of jollof rice, one of Nigeria’s most celebrated dishes and a key ambassador of the country’s cuisine on the global stage. Chefs displayed their culinary skills at various booths, serving up distinct flavours that left attendees eager to recreate the recipes at home.
The atmosphere was further enlivened by Nollywood actors Tobi Bakre and media personality Kayla Oniwo, who engaged the crowd as they danced to music from the DJ booths and watched live cooking demonstrations by the chefs.
While food remained the main attraction, this year’s edition featured a wider range of activities designed to create a more immersive experience. Attendees participated in interactive food games, with winners receiving prizes. The Fuji Dome, inspired by Adekunle Gold’s latest album, offered a themed photo experience, while silent disco booths allowed guests to enjoy the album through wireless headphones. There was also the Gist and Jollof podcast studio hosted by Taymesan, while the Knorr Herbs and Spice Garden gave visitors an opportunity to explore Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage. The children were not left out, as a section was dedicated to them to have fun.
According to Damilola Dania, Foods Demand Creation Lead at Unilever Nigeria Plc, the additions were intentional.
“This year, we wanted to go beyond the plate by creating an experience where food, music, art and culture come together in a way that feels authentic and deeply Nigerian,” she said.
The festival also marked the launch of Knorr Smokey Party Jollof Tomato Seasoning Powder. Made with sun-dried tomatoes, thyme, bay leaves and a blend of spices, the seasoning is designed to help consumers recreate the rich, smoky flavour traditionally associated with professionally prepared party jollof.
Explaining the thinking behind the product, Dexter Adeola, Foods Marketing Innovation & EWA Strategy Lead at Unilever, said:
“Party jollof holds a special place in Nigerian culture. It’s the flavour people remember from weddings, celebrations and family gatherings. With Knorr Smokey Party Jollof Seasoning, we’re helping consumers bring that iconic party jollof experience into their homes more easily than ever before. By working closely with party caterers and chefs, gaining insight into what makes their jollof so memorable, we have created a product that delivers that beloved smoky taste consistently and conveniently.”
The festival reached its climax when Adekunle Gold took to the stage, treating the audience to a medley of his hit songs and bringing the celebration to a fitting close.
