The vibrant Muri Okunola Park on Victoria Island, Lagos, was the epicentre of a massive celebration of indigenous Nigerian culture on December 20, 2025. The seventh edition of the Ofada Rice Day festival, themed "Eko Dun Joor," successfully drew a crowd of over 8,000 food lovers, culture enthusiasts, and music fans for a day filled with colour, sound, and unforgettable flavours.
A Feast for the Senses: Culture, Cuisine, and Community
Long before the headline acts took the stage, the atmosphere was buzzing with excitement. The air was rich with the irresistible aroma of freshly prepared Ofada rice and an assortment of traditional sauces. Early arrivals explored numerous food stands, interacted with local vendors showcasing indigenous products, and enjoyed various cultural displays. This festive warmth, a signature of the annual event, saw families, friends, and visitors mingling and soaking in the celebration of Yoruba heritage blended seamlessly with modern entertainment.
Musical Royalty and Energetic Performances
The musical segment of the day was a powerful journey through sound and emotion. The legendary Queen Salawa Abeni, the Waka music icon, commanded the stage with a performance that evoked deep nostalgia and reverence. Her timeless Fuji sound had the audience cheering loudly and singing along to every familiar line, a testament to her enduring influence across generations.
Following her, Segun Johnson took over and kept the energy at a peak with his vibrant act. His unique blend of traditional rhythms and contemporary flair resonated powerfully with the crowd, transforming the venue into a moving sea of dance and applause. His music perfectly echoed the event's celebratory spirit of cultural identity.
Adding a hilarious and playful twist to the evening was the comedian Bro Shaggy. His perfect comedic timing and engaging stage antics brought waves of laughter and excitement, offering a refreshing contrast and proving that Ofada Rice Day is as much about shared joy and moments as it is about food and music.
Supporting Acts and Official Endorsement
The festival also featured electrifying performances by a host of other top Nigerian artistes. The lineup included Haruna Ishola, Reminisce, Dotun, Mide, Awesome band, Elijah, SquardOne, Alex Osho, Lolo, Hyenana, and Gbenga Adeyinka, among others, ensuring non-stop entertainment.
The event received high-level recognition, with the Director-General of the National Institute of Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, praising the festival's commitment to promoting Nigerian cuisine on a global platform. This endorsement underscores the event's significance beyond mere entertainment, positioning it as a key driver for cultural and culinary tourism.
Ultimately, Ofada Rice Day 7.0 solidified its status as Nigeria's largest indigenous food festival. It successfully created a unifying space where the richness of local cuisine, the depth of cultural heritage, and the power of music converged to create an unforgettable experience for thousands.
