Many Nigerians know that smoky taste of party jollof is more than just food. It is a beloved part of weddings, birthdays, naming ceremonies and other gatherings that unite families and communities.
This culinary tradition took the spotlight over the weekend as Knorr Jollof Fest 2026 returned to Lagos. The festival celebrated Nigeria’s love for food, music and culture, while launching a new seasoning inspired by the country’s famous party jollof.
The event took place at Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island. Food lovers, chefs, entertainers and culture fans came together for a day filled with live cooking, music performances, art displays and exciting culinary experiences focused on one of Nigeria’s favorite dishes.
Honoring a beloved tradition
At the festival, Knorr introduced its Smokey Party Jollof Seasoning. The company said this seasoning helps home cooks recreate that unique smoky taste that party jollof is known for.
Dexter Adeola, who is the Foods Marketing Innovation & EWA Strategy Lead at Unilever, explained that the product was inspired by the strong connection many Nigerians have with party jollof.
“Party jollof holds a special place in Nigerian culture. It’s the flavour people remember from weddings, celebrations and family gatherings. With Knorr Smokey Party Jollof Seasoning, we’re helping consumers bring that iconic party jollof experience into their homes more easily than ever before.
“By working closely with party caterers and chefs, gaining insight into what makes their jollof so memorable, we have created a product that delivers that beloved smoky taste consistently and conveniently,” he said.
The company worked with professional Nigerian caterers and chefs to learn the cooking methods and flavors that have made party jollof a favorite at celebrations across Nigeria.
Food as culture
Beyond launching the product, the festival aimed to celebrate how food connects people and keeps cultural identity alive.
Tobi Adeniyi, Managing Director of Unilever Nigeria Plc, said the seasoning was made because consumers want to recreate those unforgettable party jollof moments in their own kitchens.
“At Unilever, we are committed to creating products and experiences that are rooted in genuine consumer insight. Knorr Smokey Party Jollof Seasoning is a reflection of that commitment, born from a deep understanding of Nigerians’ love for party jollof and their desire to recreate those memorable flavours at home.”
The event included live cooking demos, food tastings, fun installations, art exhibitions, the Fuji Dome experience and a performance by singer Adekunle Gold, giving visitors a mix of food and entertainment.
Damilola Dania, Foods Demand Creation Lead at Unilever Nigeria Plc, spoke about the importance of the festival. She called it a celebration of the shared experiences that food brings.
“Knorr Jollof Fest is our way of celebrating what truly brings Nigerians together, a shared love for good food. This year, we wanted to go beyond the plate by creating an experience where food, music, art and culture come together in a way that feels authentic and deeply Nigerian.”
More than a meal
For many Nigerians, party jollof is not just food. It has become one of the country's most famous culinary traditions. It often leads to lively discussions about recipes, cooking styles and the unique smoky taste that sets it apart from regular home-cooked dishes.
Bolanle Kehinde-Lawal, East & West Africa Head of Demand Creation for Foods at Unilever Nigeria Plc, stated that food is a strong expression of identity and community in Africa.
“Food has always been one of the strongest expressions of culture across Africa. Through platforms like Knorr Jollof Fest and innovations like Knorr Smokey Party Jollof Seasoning, we continue to celebrate the traditions, flavours and shared experiences that unite communities.”
After the Lagos event, Knorr Jollof Fest 2026 will head to Abuja on 12 July and finish in Port Harcourt on 19 July.
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