Guaranty Trust Holding Company Plc (GTCO Plc) has announced the maiden Holiday Edition of its renowned GTCO Food & Drink Festival, scheduled for December 20–21, 2025, at the GT Centre, Oniru, Lagos—an initiative firmly rooted in the Group’s long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, community development, and the promotion of excellence.
By introducing the Festival into the festive season, GTCO is deliberately repositioning the platform as more than a culinary showcase. The Holiday Edition is designed as a shared family experience that brings people together, celebrates African creativity, and creates economic opportunities for small businesses at a time of heightened social connection.
Speaking at the announcement in Lagos, the Group explained that this special edition reflects a strategic CSR-driven decision to strengthen family bonding and community engagement. Unlike previous editions that focused heavily on professional chef masterclasses, the Holiday Festival prioritises inclusive, family-friendly attractions, immersive entertainment, and an expanded marketplace that caters to all age groups.
Group Chief Executive Officer of GTCO Plc, Segun Agbaje, said the Holiday Edition underscores the organisation’s belief that excellence in business must go hand in hand with social impact.
“The GTCO Food & Drink Festival is one of the ways we give back—by promoting enterprise, celebrating African creativity, and creating platforms that bring families and communities together. The Holiday Edition allows us to share the joy of the season while supporting thousands of food entrepreneurs who play a critical role in our economy,” he said.
Empowering SMEs Through Access and Opportunity
Staying true to its inclusive CSR philosophy, GTCO has again retained its free vendor participation model, removing financial barriers for small businesses and enabling them to thrive during the high-traffic festive period.
For the Holiday Edition:
- Over 4,000 food vendors applied
- 213 Nigerian-owned SMEs were selected—almost double the number from the previous edition
- Vendors will offer a wide range of affordable, high-quality local cuisine
This surge in participation highlights the Festival’s growing reputation as a credible platform for promoting excellence among local entrepreneurs and driving sustainable economic empowerment.
Designed for Families, Built for Community
The Holiday Edition introduces new features specifically curated to enhance family interaction and festive enjoyment:
- Christmas Village: A themed marketplace showcasing handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats, and artisanal products.
- Children’s Play Zone: A dedicated, safe space filled with games and immersive holiday activities for young families.
- Street Food Hub: A celebration of Nigeria’s iconic street food culture, reflecting the nation’s culinary diversity.
- Live Entertainment: High-energy DJ performances by top Nigerian entertainers, creating a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere.
A CSR Platform with Lasting Impact
GTCO noted that the Holiday Food & Drink Festival aligns seamlessly with its broader CSR objectives—supporting SMEs, strengthening family bonds, and promoting Nigerian culture on a global stage. By anchoring the event in the spirit of the season, the Group aims to deepen community ties, stimulate local commerce, and deliver meaningful experiences that go beyond banking.
The GTCO Food & Drink Festival – Holiday Edition is free and open to the public, reinforcing GTCO’s conviction that access to quality experiences, creativity, and opportunity should be shared widely.
