The organisers of the second edition of Ibadan Chop ‘n’ Chill have confirmed that they have secured the approval of the Oyo state government.
The man behind the concept, Chef Chinwendu Festus Wendy is preparing to host over 10,000 food enthusiasts, musicians and photographers in Ibadan and its environs.
This year’s edition of Chop ‘n’ Chill will hold on Sunday, December 1st 2024, at Ibadan Recreation Club, Sabo, Ibadan, the Oyo state capital.
The Commissioner for Youth and sports, Ms. Wasilat Adegoke, applauded the convener of the event, Chef Wendy, wishing her a resounding success and a memorable experience.
Adegoke, who was represented by her Personal Assistant, Maryam Kareem, said this during a press conference held on Sunday in Ibadan.
According to her the event will help promote culture and bring more economic growth in the state.
Adegoke said, “We applaud the organizers for promoting cultural exchange, entertainment, and economic growth through this innovative event. Ibadan Chops and Chill 2.0 showcases our city’s vibrant spirit, rich heritage, and culinary delights.”
She likewise affirmed the Oyo State government’s commitment to supporting youth-driven initiatives, fostering creative entrepreneurship, enhancing community engagement and promoting cultural preservation.
Earlier, Chef Chinwendu Festus Wendy, the Chief Executive Officer of Chef Wendy’s Kitchen and the convener of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill, said the food festival is a culinary event that started in the year 2023 with the aim of showcasing local talents in culinary businesses, as well as positioning Ibadan City to the world as a culinary powerhouse within Nigeria’s growing fast food industry.
“As of 2023, Ibadan was valued at a staggering N250 billion, which is around $602.5 million by the Association of Fast-Food Confectioners of Nigeria (AFFCON)”, she said.
She said the maiden edition of Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill was colourful and successful, as over 5,000 food enthusiasts, photographers, videographers, brand managers and ambassadors, event planners, chefs, food vendors, fun seekers among others graced the event that was held at the Ibadan Polo Club, Eleyele, Ibadan which recorded great success.
She expressed optimism that the second edition will be more than just a food festival, as it will offer another opportunity to celebrate flavours and culinary talents in Ibadan and its environs.
“Myself and other members of my team in partnership with other stakeholders are working tirelessly to ensure the smooth running of this event as over 10,000 food enthusiasts, photographers , videographers, music artistes, among others have been invited across the country and they are expected to savour Ibadan city’s finest cuisines”, she added.
“Ibadan Chops ‘n’ Chill event is on a mission to create a platform for talented chefs to emerge through healthy food cooking competitions where winners will be going home with cash prizes, sponsorship deal into culinary school, empowerment with cooking utensils among other. This event will further establish Ibadan as a culinary force to be reckoned with in Nigeria.”
“This second edition of Ibadan Chop ‘n’ Chill” promises to be a feast for both the medium and upper classes in the society, as it will offer an irresistible assortment of culinary delights, workshops, competitions, and
entertainment. The event will feature an extensive selection of delectable dishes from both local and international cuisines.”
Packaged by Adekunle Adegboyega
