After two years of planning, the Ofe Owerri Food and Drink Festival is set to make its debut in Owerri, Imo State, from January 3 to January 4, 2026.
The festival has received official endorsement, positioning it as an annual cultural celebration that blends tradition, tourism, and hospitality.
The Imo State Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality and Culture, Jerry Egemba, confirmed the government’s strong support in an official endorsement letter. He noted that the festival reflects the ministry’s commitment to promoting tourism, culture, and hospitality as drivers of economic growth and unity.
“By celebrating Ofe Owerri, the king of soups as a cultural symbol, this event reinforces our identity, showcases our heritage and positions Imo as a proud custodian of Igbo culinary excellence,” Egemba said.
The festival is being organised by the International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum in partnership with Culinary and Culture Africa Ltd. Chibuikem Diala, Founder and Executive Director of IHTEF, described the festival as more than just a food showcase. He said it will also highlight cultural pride, tourism promotion, and economic empowerment.
“By attracting both local and international visitors, we are positioning Imo State as a hub for culinary tourism, while creating opportunities for farmers, food vendors, youth SMEs, FCMGs, and hospitality businesses across the value chain. The Ofe Owerri Food and Drink Festival 2026 promises to be a landmark international event blending heritage, hospitality, and culinary diplomacy,” Diala said.
According to him, the event has secured support from a wide range of partners, including hospitality brands, beverage companies, tourism operators, cultural associations, diaspora organisations, and development agencies. He explained that the festival will serve as a platform for cross-cultural exchange, draw the diaspora community closer, and project Nigeria’s culinary heritage to a global audience.
He also called on the media, development partners, tourism promoters, and the public to play their part in making the Ofe Owerri Food and Drink Festival a historic event and a cultural story the world will not forget.
