- Agboye Wins ₦5 Million Star Prize at Lagos’ ‘Eko Flavours Season 2’ Culinary Competition
- First runner-up goes home with N3m, third position gets N1m
- As Lagos celebrates culinary creativity
Chef Agabus Agboye has emerged winner of the ₦5 million star prize at the grand finale of the ‘Eko Flavours Season 2’ culinary competition, organised by the Lagos State Ministry of Agriculture and Food Systems in collaboration with the Culinara Group.
Eko Hot Blog reports that Agboye outperformed other contestants to clinch the title of Eko Flavours Season 2 Champion at the event held over the weekend at the Fresh Food Hub, Idi-Oro, Mushin.
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Martha Oluwadamilola Rotimi finished as first runner-up, receiving a ₦3 million prize, while Peace Alexander came third with ₦1 million. Other top-five contestants, including Enwere Glory and Daniel Akagha, alongside other finalists, were also presented with consolation prizes.
A highlight of the event was a surprise cook-off between the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Ms. Abisola Olusanya, and popular food critic Opeyemi Famakinwa, a friendly contest that ended with the Commissioner’s victory, to the delight of spectators.
Speaking after his win, a visibly emotional Chef Agboye expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the opportunity to showcase his talent.
“I am overwhelmed with joy. This is a dream come true after years of hard work and dedication. I want to thank the Lagos State Government and the organisers of Eko Flavours for believing in young chefs like me. This win means I must keep improving and represent Lagos proudly,” he said.
First runner-up Rotimi also described her experience as “a journey of discovery and growth,” noting that the competition had broadened her understanding of Lagos’ vibrant food industry.
“We have incredible talent here, and I’m proud to be part of this culinary evolution,” she added.
Addressing participants, Commissioner Olusanya congratulated all contestants, describing them as winners for their resilience and creativity.
She noted that the competition would open job opportunities and promote a sustainable future in the food sector, urging participants to use the experience as a springboard to greater achievements.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mr. Idris Aregbe, said the initiative was designed to identify and promote Lagos’ culinary talents while creating opportunities for self-employment and innovation.
He added that top contestants would be showcased at the upcoming Greater Lagos Fiesta in December, as part of the state’s broader creative economy and youth empowerment strategy.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Agriculture and Food Systems, Dr. Olurotimi Fashola, highlighted the improved digitalised judging process in this year’s edition, describing it as transparent and forward-thinking.
“What we are witnessing is the birth of a generation of chefs who can redefine Nigerian cuisine. Our dream is to create unique recipes that originate from Lagos, something we can patent and proudly call our own,” Fashola said.
The co-CEOs of Culinara Group, Mrs. Olufunke Adu and Mrs. Jennifer Odufuwa, commended the contestants, describing the competition as a celebration of resilience, creativity, and opportunity.
“Beyond the trophies, everyone who stood in that kitchen today has gained something valuable , confidence, exposure, and belief in their abilities,” Adu said.
“Eko Flavours has evolved from an idea into a vibrant culinary movement,” Odufuwa added. “This second edition is not just about competition but about collaboration, visibility, and giving Lagos chefs a stage to shine locally and internationally.”
With the theme “A Lagos Food Story,” the Eko Flavours Season 2 competition aligns with the Lagos State Government’s mission to promote culinary tourism, celebrate local ingredients, and empower youths across the food and hospitality value chain.
The event featured live tastings, digital scoring, and mentorship sessions, further positioning Lagos as Nigeria’s emerging hub for creative food culture.
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