PRESS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
Date: 19 October 2026
Lagos, Nigeria – The competition is heating up as Eko Flavours Season 3, Africa’s premier culinary showcase, officially announces its Top 25 contestants, marking another major milestone in the search for exceptional culinary talent.
Powered by Culinara Group in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture & Food Systems, Eko Flavours continues to celebrate the creativity, passion and entrepreneurial potential of Nigeria’s emerging culinary talents.
Announced on Friday, 16 October 2026, the Top 25 selection marks an important step forward in this year’s competition. The successful contestants have distinguished themselves in a journey that celebrates more than cooking. It recognises the ability to tell compelling food stories, showcase originality and connect with audiences through the rich culinary heritage of Lagos.
25 Contestants. One Culinary Stage. The Journey Continues.
The announcement signals a new chapter for the selected contestants as they move closer to the next stage of Eko Flavours Season 3.
Each contestant brings a unique perspective, culinary identity and creative energy to the competition. Together, they represent the diversity of flavours, traditions and fresh ideas shaping Lagos’ evolving food culture.
With the competition gaining momentum, the Top 25 now have an opportunity to demonstrate their potential, sharpen their creative expression and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Top 25 Meet the Faculty Judges
Following the announcement, the 25 successful contestants were invited to a special briefing and meet-and-greet session with the Eko Flavours faculty judges on Monday, 19 October 2026.
The session brought the selected contestants together for the first time as a group, giving them an opportunity to meet fellow competitors, interact with the faculty judges and gain a clearer understanding of the journey ahead.
Beyond the introductions, the gathering marked an important moment in the competition. It created space for connection, shared expectations and engagement with the people who will help guide and assess the contestants as they progress.
For the contestants, meeting their fellow competitors also offered a glimpse of the talent and creativity they will encounter in the next phase of the challenge.
The message is clear: reaching the Top 25 is a significant achievement, but the journey is far from over.
Celebrating Culinary Talent and Opportunity
Eko Flavours was created to provide a platform where culinary creativity meets culture, visibility and entrepreneurship.
Through the competition, participants have an opportunity to showcase their skills while building their profiles and exploring the wider possibilities within the food industry.
The initiative also supports the broader ambition of positioning Lagos as a leading culinary destination in Africa, where food serves as a powerful expression of identity, innovation and economic opportunity.
As Season 3 progresses, the Top 25 contestants will be expected to bring their individual strengths to the forefront and demonstrate what sets them apart.
Meet the Eko Flavours Season 3 Top 25
The wait is over. The names have been announced, the contestants have met their fellow competitors, and the next chapter is underway.
Meet the 25 contestants advancing in Eko Flavours Season 3.
- Eva Akwaugo (5,699 Votes )
- Maseba Briggs (5,125 Votes )
- Oluwatamiore Vinneta Umweni (4,674 Votes )
- Emetu Chidera (4,610 Votes)
- Ayorinde Hannah (3,961 Votes )
- Olayiwola Dolapo Oluwadunsin (3,802 Votes )
- Cassandra Nwoko ( 3,782 Votes )
- Opara Francis Chigemezu (3,745 Votes )
- Onyealisi Chinaza Ruth (3,743Votes )
- Imaobong Rukevwe Obukonise (3,574 Votes )
- Nifemi Fasuyi (3,477 Votes )
- Hassan Yussuf (3,432 Votes )
- Oluwabusayo Boluwatife Israel (3,404 Votes )
- Wuraolawunni ( 3,370 Votes )
- Juliana Oluwasemiloore Diyan (3,305 Votes )
- Dora Obiageli ( 3,289 Votes )
- Jagila Colman (3,239 Votes )
- Izedonmwen Daniella (3,181 Votes )
- Ehi Stephanie (3,159 Votes )
- Ayomide Christianah Adeyemi ( 3,149 Votes)
- Ogah Ukeh Gladys (3,002 Votes )
- Christabel Felix (2,946 Votes )
- Adeleke Balikis Yetunde (2,865 Votes )
- Moyin Fashina (2,757 Votes )
- Goodness Elizabeth Akintunde (2,193)
Follow their journey as they take on the challenges ahead, showcase their culinary creativity and compete for the opportunity to make their mark on Eko Flavours Season 3.
25 contestants. Countless possibilities. One unforgettable culinary journey.
About Eko Flavours
Eko Flavours, powered by Culinara Group in partnership with the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture & Food Systems, is Africa’s largest culinary stage, celebrating Lagos’ food culture, empowering emerging chefs, and promoting African cuisine globally. The initiative combines competition, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and media amplification to transform culinary talent into industry leaders.
The next chapter starts now.
Follow the journey: @theekoflavours on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, X (Twitter) & YouTube.
