The Federal Government says it will attempt to set a Guinness World Record for the world’s longest dining table during this year’s Mega Renewed Hope NIHOTOUR Gastronomy Festival, scheduled for December in Abuja.
The plan was announced on Thursday during a joint press briefing by the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR), Dr. Abisoye Fagade, and the Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism and the Creative Economy, Hannatu Musa Musawa.
This year’s event, themed “Oriki: Taste of Culture,” according to the organisers, aims to celebrate Nigeria’s rich food culture while promoting opportunities in the hospitality and creative industries, in line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Fagade said the festival’s highlight will be a 3.6-kilometre-long dining table, designed to seat between 2,000 and 3,000 guests. The record attempt will take place on the morning of December 6, followed by a communal feast later in the evening.
He explained that the event will combine food, music, culture, and comedy to create a memorable experience. According to him, the goal is to position Abuja as a prime destination for major cultural festivals and to boost tourism, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment through NIHOTOUR’s programs.
The DG added that the project is expected to attract investments and create new opportunities in the hospitality, food, and agribusiness sectors.
Minister Hannatu Musawa described the festival as a tool for economic inclusion and youth engagement, noting the growing global recognition of Nigerian cuisine. She commended the creativity of Nigerians promoting local dishes around the world.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to officially launch the festival and the Guinness World Record attempt in Abuja.