Nigeria launches ‘Oríkì’ Experience to showcase culture, cuisine
The National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), in partnership with Novarosta, unveiled Oríkì, a world-class cultural and culinary experience aimed at promoting Nigeria’s creative heritage and positioning the country as a global destination for tourism, gastronomy, and creative economy investment.
The grand event at Eagle’s Square, Abuja, drew global partners, government officials, chefs, investors, cultural ambassadors, and creative entrepreneurs from Africa and the diaspora under the theme, “When Culture Meets Cuisine, the World Connects.” Guests experienced a fusion of traditional poetry, live music, and Nigerian haute cuisine.
Oríkì, rooted in the African art of praise poetry, celebrates lineage, excellence, and the human spirit. While most renowned in Yoruba traditions, similar expressions like Aha Otuto (Igbo), Kirari (Hausa), and Eré (Itsekiri) reflect Nigeria’s shared cultural identity. Regional food pavilions and creative reinterpretations of local recipes offered a multisensory journey through the nation’s culture.
In her address, the Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, commended NIHOTOUR for blending culture and cuisine to strengthen national unity and global engagement. She described Oríkì as a “profound expression of who we are as Africans—proud, creative, and united by heritage.”
Dr. Abisoye Fagade, Director-General of NIHOTOUR, described the initiative as a bridge between heritage and opportunity, connecting art, culture, and cuisine to drive investment, employment, and national pride. The launch also introduced the Cultural Gastronomy Investment Series to attract investors and international collaborators.
He added that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and NIHOTOUR’s Mission 100 Vision, aimed at building Africa’s most dynamic tourism workforce and positioning Nigeria as a leader in hospitality education, cultural promotion, and creative enterprise.
Novarosta executives emphasized that Oríkì illustrates how culture and hospitality can unite a nation while inspiring global recognition. “Culture is the heartbeat of hospitality, and hospitality is the face of Nigeria,” they said.
Established in 1987 under the Federal Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, NIHOTOUR continues to champion innovation in hospitality training, culinary arts, and cultural education, using Nigeria’s heritage as a driver of economic growth and national pride.
