Guaranty Trust Holding Company has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in Nigeria through the highly anticipated 2025 GTCO food and drink festival.
Speaking at a press conference to announce the 8th edition of the festival on Tuesday, the bank’s group corporate communication, Mr Charles Eremi, said no fewer than 204 local food vendors were supported with free stalls to showcase their culinary products and services to thousands of attendees.
According to him, the three-day event, scheduled to be held from Friday, May 2 to Sunday, May 4, is expected to draw thousands of food enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals from Nigeria and abroad.
Eremi said the festival with the theme: “A Shared Experience”, would feature a wide range of food and beverage offerings, including traditional Nigerian dishes, innovative fusion meals, and international cuisines.
He described the festival as the biggest food and drink event in Africa, which according to him serves as a major platform for promoting local food businesses and empowering SMEs in the food and drink sector.
He added that the festival would also feature 11 internationally recognised chefs, who will lead culinary masterclasses, live demonstrations, and workshops.
The chefs, including Cristian Duhalde, chef Tilly, Tamra Patterson, Thomas Zacharias, Lorenzo Cogo, Gabriel Rodriguez, Hardette Harris, Lasheeda Perry, Daniel Galmiche, Shalamar Lane, and Hiroo Nagahara, will share their expertise and culinary knowledge with attendees, aspiring chefs, and food entrepreneurs.
Eremi said, “The 2025 edition will feature 204 free retail stalls, showcasing the rich diversity and creativity of our food culture—from traditional Nigerian dishes and regional delicacies to contemporary fusion cuisines, savory bites, refreshing beverages, and gourmet desserts.
“Beyond the festivities, the festival reflects our commitment to supporting local enterprise—creating a free business platform where food retailers can connect with consumers, share their unique offerings, and take meaningful steps toward growth and long-term sustainability.
“At the heart of the festival is GTCO’s vision of promoting enterprise in support of small businesses, especially indigenous foodpreneurs.
“It is part of the group’s broader commitment to creating great experiences for customers by offering meaningful opportunities for connection, growth, and shared success.
“Attendees can also look forward to a series of masterclasses, where internationally renowned chefs and respected culinary experts will share practical insights, recipes, and techniques spanning a wide range of cuisines and disciplines.
“In addition to the food exhibition and masterclasses, visitors will enjoy an expansive street food arena, offering a vibrant selection of popular local delicacies, and a dedicated children’s play area, ensuring a fun, safe, and memorable experience for the entire family.”
