Culinary Excellence: Lagos Empowers Young Chefs With ₦10m At ‘A Lagos Food Story’ Event

The Lagos State Government has celebrated young culinary innovators with cash prizes totalling ₦10 million and other rewards at the Eko Flavours Food Competition, themed “A Lagos Food Story.”

The event, organised by the Ministry of Agriculture in collaboration with Culinara Group, took place on Saturday at the Fresh Food Hub in Mushin. Ten contestants showcased their skills across four categories — sandwiches, appetisers, main courses, and desserts — in a vibrant display of creativity and innovation.

Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Abisola Olusanya, said the initiative was designed to strengthen connections within the state’s food value chain, from research and production to processing, distribution, and culinary creativity. She noted that most participants were between 20 and 35 years old, describing the platform as a launchpad to elevate their businesses and vocational potential.

The grand prize winner, Agabus Agboye, received ₦5 million, while the first and second runners-up, Rotimi Oluwadamilola and Alexander Peace, took home ₦3 million and ₦2 million respectively. Other contestants received consolation prizes and gifts from the event’s partners. Olusanya also highlighted the government’s “Produce for Lagos” programme, aimed at boosting local food production and linking farmers directly to markets.

Co-founder of Culinara Group, Jennifer Odufuwa, said the competition was created to spotlight emerging chefs and connect them with career and business opportunities in the food industry. She added that beyond cash prizes, winners would gain access to an accelerator programme, partnerships, and mentorship to enhance their entrepreneurial and creative growth.

“When you combine culinary talent with entrepreneurship and content creation, you’re shaping the next generation of global food ambassadors for Nigeria — the next Ify’s Kitchen or Hilda Baci,” Odufuwa said.