GTCO Plc has announced the 9th edition of its Food and Drink Festival, set to take place from May 1 to May 3, 2026, at GTCentre in Oniru, Victoria Island, Lagos. Themed "Everything Food and Drink," the event will feature over 200 free retail stalls showcasing traditional Nigerian cuisine alongside modern interpretations of global dishes. The festival will highlight small and medium-scale food businesses as well as established brands, with activities including live cooking demonstrations, food and wine tastings, and interactive masterclasses. Family-friendly zones with dedicated children's activities will also be available. Segun Agbaje, Group CEO of GTCO Plc, described the festival as a platform that promotes innovation, inclusivity, and enterprise, emphasizing its role in uniting people across backgrounds through food while creating economic opportunities. Since its launch, the festival has grown into one of Africa's leading culinary events, drawing attendees from across Nigeria and other countries. Admission will remain free, in line with the organizers' commitment to accessibility and community engagement. The event will be held at GTCentre, a multipurpose facility developed by GTCO Plc, which also serves as the company's headquarters.
A major financial institution is now one of the continent's most visible promoters of culinary culture, raising questions about the role of private corporations in shaping public cultural events. The festival's expansion to over 200 stalls and its emphasis on SMEs reflect a growing synergy between banking capital and grassroots enterprise. Yet the event's identity as both a community gathering and a corporate showcase remains layered. When a bank stages a city's largest food festival, the line between public celebration and brand narrative blurs.
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