The Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has launched the Eko Flavours initiative, a culinary competition designed to showcase the rich and diverse food culture of Lagos. Coordinated by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems, the event aims to promote local talent and culinary creativity.
Registration for Eko Flavours opened on August 8, 2024, and is open to residents aged 18 and above who possess a valid Lagos State Resident Registration Agency (LASRRA) card. The competition offers participants a unique platform to display their culinary skills, with judging based on creativity, social media engagement, and the overall appeal of their dishes.
The competition’s structure includes multiple stages: the top 50 contestants, determined by social media engagement, will advance to specific tasks. From there, the top 20 will proceed to the quarterfinals at the Lagos Fresh Food Hub in Idi Oro, Mushin, on September 28. Subsequent rounds will narrow the field to 10 semifinalists and then to five finalists, culminating in a grand finale on October 5.
Prizes include ₦5 million for the winner, ₦3 million for the first runner-up, and ₦1 million for the second runner-up, with additional consolation prizes for other deserving contestants. Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, emphasized the state’s commitment to promoting local talent and celebrating Lagos’s food culture through initiatives like Eko Flavours.
