Firewood Jollof, the organisers of the annual Firewood Jollof Festival, have announced that preparations are in top gear for the 2025 edition of the African cultural festival, themed “Unifying African Jollof.” The announcement was made recently at a press conference held in Lagos to unveil plans for this year’s festival.
Speaking at the event, Chizoma Chukwueke described Firewood Jollof as more than a food festival. “It is a platform that drives local business, tourism, and cultural exchange. Last year, we supported small vendors and attracted about 10,000 visitors from different states and some from beyond our shores. This year, we expect to host even more people and create greater opportunities for local artisans, farmers, and entrepreneurs.”
The Firewood Jollof Festival was launched in 2024 to celebrate Nigeria’s rich culinary heritage through the beloved dish, Jollof rice. What began as a celebration of local flavours is rapidly evolving into a major cultural phenomenon, uniting people through food, music, and shared experiences. The 2025 theme shifts the focus from rivalry to collaboration, aiming to elevate Jollof rice to a globally celebrated culinary treasure that unites Africans and food lovers worldwide.
Access Bank was unveiled as the lead sponsor for the 2025 edition, reaffirming the bank’s commitment to supporting small businesses and creative enterprises across Nigeria. The festival also enjoys sponsorship from MTN, Nestlé, and Devon King’s Oil, brands that share the festival’s philosophy of empowering and promoting small businesses.
Assistant Brand Manager, Devon Kings, Voke Emeje, representing one of the sponsors of the event this year, said, “Jollof is beyond being a menu; it unites people, and Firewood Jollof Festival is a perfect fit for us as a brand because Devon King Oil is a taste that binds, and we go beyond nourishment. Devon Kings wants to put smiles on people; it wants to be part of those who preserve our culture, and Firewood Jollof aligns with that.”
The press unveiling brought together partners, sponsors, and members of the media. In attendance were the Chief Executive Officer of Firewood Jollof, Chizoma Chukwueke; Marketing Advisor, Chibuzor Chukwueke, and Head, Regional Branch Operations, Firewood Jollof, Feyisayo Akeotu, who revealed the plans for this year’s Firewood Jollof Festival.
The Firewood Jollof Festival 2025 will celebrate Africa’s shared culinary heritage through Jollof rice, a dish enjoyed across the continent. The event will feature chefs from Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and The Gambia. They will showcase their unique versions of Jollof. Other highlights include music, culture, art, and fashion exhibitions.
Marketing Advisor, Chibuzor Chukwueke, said the 2025 edition will be better and bigger than last year, with more celebrity participation. “This year, we will double the engagement of celebrities and the public. With Access Bank and others coming on board, the Firewood Jollof 2025 is guaranteed to be a much-talked-about event long after the event.”
The festival also places a strong emphasis on sustainability, with partnerships focused on waste reduction and eco-friendly practices during the event. The Chief Executive Officer, Penzaaruille, Olufemi Oguntamu, was on the ground to offer support as a part of the Firewood Jollof family that hosted the inaugural edition last year.
Set to hold in November Saturday 29, 2025, at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Firewood Jollof Festival promises a rich blend of food, culture, and entertainment. The organisers expect to welcome more than attendees, making it one of the largest cultural food gatherings in the country.
