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LAGOS, NIGERIA – December 12, 2025 – Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) has announced the debut of the first-ever Holiday Edition of its internationally acclaimed GTCO Food & Drink Festival, set to hold on December 20 and 21, 2025, at the GT Centre, Oniru, Lagos. This landmark edition brings Africa’s largest food and beverage festival into the festive season, delivering a dynamic fusion of culinary excellence, family-centered experiences, and enterprise development.
Positioned as an expansion of the Festival’s global reputation, the Holiday Edition is designed to celebrate the richness of African cuisine while creating memorable holiday moments for families and unlocking new revenue opportunities for food-based Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, GTCO Plc emphasized that the Holiday Edition marks a deliberate shift toward a more festive, family-focused experience. Unlike previous editions, the December event will not feature chef masterclasses; instead, it will showcase immersive holiday attractions, an expanded marketplace, and entertainment designed for visitors of all ages.
According to the Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, Segun Agbaje, the Holiday Edition reflects the Group’s commitment to fueling enterprise and celebrating African creativity.
“The GTCO Food & Drink Festival is a powerful platform that aligns with our mission to fuel enterprise, promote African creativity, and connect communities through meaningful lifestyle experiences. The Holiday Edition gives us an exciting opportunity to celebrate the festive season while supporting thousands of food entrepreneurs who form the backbone of our economy,” he said.
Record SME Participation
Staying true to its tradition of empowering local businesses, GTCO is maintaining its free vendor participation model, enabling more entrepreneurs to gain visibility and drive sales during the festive period.
For the Holiday Edition:
• Over 4,000 applications were received
• 213 food SMEs were selected, nearly double the number from the last edition
• All selected vendors are Nigerian-owned, offering diverse, affordable culinary options
The surge in participation underscores the Festival’s growing impact as a major catalyst for SME growth and as a platform that supports inclusive economic development.
New Holiday Features and Attractions
The 2025 Holiday Edition will introduce several new and expanded features crafted specifically for festive celebrations:
Christmas Village
A beautifully curated holiday marketplace offering handcrafted gifts, seasonal delicacies, artisanal products, and holiday-themed entertainment.
Large Children’s Play Zone
A fun-filled space with games, immersive activities, and holiday experiences designed for young families.
Street Food Hub
A vibrant showcase of signature Nigerian street foods, highlighting the country’s culinary diversity.
Live Entertainment
High-energy DJ sets from two top-tier Nigerian entertainers, creating a vibrant and upbeat holiday atmosphere throughout the two-day festival.
Deepening Community Impact
GTCO noted that the Holiday Edition aligns with its broader CSR objectives—particularly in supporting communities, expanding SME participation, and amplifying Nigeria’s creative and culinary economies. By leveraging the festive season, the Group seeks to foster deeper family engagement, boost local businesses, and strengthen its reputation for curating authentic African lifestyle experiences that resonate globally.
The GTCO Food & Drink Festival – Holiday Edition is free and open to the public, reaffirming the Group’s belief that creativity, community, and world-class experiences should be accessible to all.
About GTCO
Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO) is a leading financial services group dedicated to supporting enterprise, innovation, and economic growth across Africa. Through initiatives like the GTCO Food & Drink Festival, the company champions SMEs, celebrates African culture, and fosters community engagement.
