ABUJA, Nigeria – The Embassy of the Republic of Türkiye in Nigeria brought a taste of Anatolia to the heart of Abuja as it celebrated the 2025 edition of Turkish Cuisine Week, treating members of the Nigerian community to a colourful display of Turkish culture, hospitality, and traditional delicacies.
Held within the serene premises of the Turkish Embassy, the event attracted diplomats, government officials, members of the Nigerian-Turkish community, food enthusiasts, and cultural connoisseurs who gathered to enjoy an immersive experience of Türkiye’s rich culinary heritage.
In his welcome remarks, Turkish Ambassador to Nigeria, Hidayet Bayraktar, expressed delight at the turnout and emphasized the role of food as a bridge between cultures. “Turkish Cuisine Week is not just about food; it is about cultural diplomacy. It is an opportunity to celebrate our shared values through flavours, traditions, and friendship,” he said.
Guests were treated to a curated menu showcasing signature Turkish dishes such as kebabs, dolma, baklava, lentil soup, and pilaf – all prepared by chefs flown in from Türkiye to ensure authenticity. The event also featured Turkish tea and coffee service, which holds a UNESCO heritage status for its cultural significance.
In addition to the culinary delights, the embassy organized a mini-exhibition of Turkish arts and crafts, including handwoven textiles, ceramics, and calligraphy, giving guests a broader taste of Türkiye’s diverse cultural landscape.
Ambassador Bayraktar highlighted the growing bilateral relationship between Nigeria and Türkiye, noting that cultural exchanges like Cuisine Week reinforce the people-to-people ties underpinning diplomatic and economic partnerships between the two nations.
Nigerian guests commended the initiative, describing it as a refreshing window into the vibrant Turkish way of life. Some also expressed interest in culinary training and tourism opportunities in Türkiye.
Turkish Cuisine Week, marked annually in May, is celebrated by Turkish embassies and consulates around the world to promote the country’s gastronomy and cultural heritage. The 2025 edition underscores Türkiye’s soft power diplomacy and its commitment to fostering cross-cultural understanding globally.
