Lagos State has officially unveiled Eko Flavours Junior Edition, a school-based culinary competition designed to discover and nurture culinary talents among students aged 10–13. The initiative, themed “Flavours of the Future”, is a collaboration between the Ministry of Agriculture & Food Systems, the Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, the Culinara Group, and other key stakeholders.
During the unveiling event, Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, emphasized that the competition is not just about cooking but also about exposing students to the interconnectedness of agriculture, food, education, and career opportunities. The aim is to inspire creativity and promote a culture of innovation and sustainability in the food sector.
Key Dates & Format
The competition timeline includes:
- Online registration: Opens June 16 and runs through June 30, 2025. Contestant must be residents of Lagos and registered with LASRRA.
- Grand Finale: The final cook-off will take place on July 26, 2025, at a major event venue, where finalists will showcase their skills in front of a panel of judges and a live audience.
Exciting Rewards
Winners will receive generous cash prizes:
- First place: ₦3 million
- Second place: ₦2 million
- Third place: ₦1 million
These incentives are designed to motivate young participants and support their future development in food and nutrition careers.
The program goes beyond competition. Through mentorship, hands-on cooking experiences, and exposure to food system concepts, students will learn essential skills in:
- Creative cooking and food presentation
- Healthy eating and nutrition
- Teamwork and communication
- Agriculture and food science
Project Lead John Fadejola noted that the initiative introduces students to agriculture in a relatable way, building interest in food systems and innovation.
The Lagos State Government sees Eko Flavours Junior as part of its broader youth development strategy. Permanent Secretary Emmanuel Audu reinforced the program’s alignment with the state’s vision to promote family bonding, create jobs, and achieve food security through knowledge-sharing and early exposure.If you know a student who fits the criteria, now is the time to encourage them to register before June 30.
