Ofe Owerri Food and Drink Festival Debuts, Gains Official Endorsement
After two years of careful planning and groundwork, the much-anticipated Ofe Owerri Food & Drink Festival will debut as an annual cultural celebration in Owerri, Imo State, from January 3–4, 2026.
This is contained in a statement by Engr. Chibuikem Diala, Founder & Executive Director of International Hospitality, Tourism and Eco-Sustainability Forum (IHTEF), made available to newsmen in Owerri, on Thursday.
Our correspondent reports that the festival is organized by IHTEF Nigeria, in collaboration with Culinary & Culture Africa Ltd.
It has been formally endorsed by the Imo state Ministry of Tourism, Hospitality & Culture and the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN).
Diala said that the Ofe Owerri Food & Drinks Festival is not just about food; but also about 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 & Drink Festival 2026 promises to be a landmark international event blending heritage, hospitality, and culinary diplomacy “, he said.
He added that the festival is backed by a wide network of partners, including leading hospitality brands, beverage companies, tourism operators, cultural associations, diaspora organizations, and development agencies.
According to him, the festival seeks to foster cross-cultural exchange, attract the diaspora, and spotlight Nigeria’s culinary heritage on the global stage.
He urged media houses, tourism promoters, development partners, and the general public to join in making history as Nigeria tells its culinary story to the world through Ofe Owerri Food and Drinks Festival.
The Imo State Commissioner for Tourism, Hospitality & Culture, Barr. Jerry Egbule Egemba, in the official endorsement letter expressed the government’s strong support, stating:
“The Festival aligns with our Ministry’s commitment to promoting Tourism, Culture and Hospitality as drivers of economic growth and social cohesion. “ 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”, he said.