The second day of the GTCO Food & Drink Festival 2025 brought the energy and excitement to new heights as crowds gathered at the GTCentre in Victoria Island, Lagos, to experience the rich flavours of Africa.
Kicking off the day’s lineup of masterclasses was the much-anticipated session by renowned Nigerian chef and culinary innovator, Chef Tilewa Odedina — popularly known as Chef Tilly. Her class, titled “African Flavours for a Healthier You,” offered guests a unique and inspiring experience, blending the warmth of traditional African cuisine with modern, health-conscious techniques.
Trained at the prestigious Le Cordon Bleu, Chef Tilly is the Head of Culinary at Nigeria’s largest cloud kitchen and is known for her ability to turn familiar local dishes into nourishing, wellness-driven meals. Her session took guests on a flavorful journey through nutritious ingredients, cooking methods, and the art of using African spices to promote good health.
As a partner chef for Miele Nigeria and a leader in culinary education, she also shared insights into the future of food in Africa, encouraging attendees to embrace food as both medicine and culture.
Guests at the festival were thrilled by her engaging style, practical tips, and inspiring message about wellness through indigenous cuisine. Many left with a renewed appreciation for the power of African food and ideas for creating healthier meals at home.
The day continued with more exciting masterclasses from international chefs including Tamra Patterson, Chef Thomas Zacharias, Lorenzo Cogo, and Gabriel Rodriguez, each bringing their own global twist to the festival’s rich culinary mix.
With free entry, a lively atmosphere, and delicious food at every corner, the GTCO Food & Drink Festival continues to celebrate culinary diversity while supporting food innovation and enterprise in Nigeria.
The festival runs through Sunday, May 4, with more world-class sessions ahead. Food lovers are encouraged to attend and soak up the flavours, stories, and lessons from some of the best chefs around the world.