Rivers state’s bole festival empowers vendors, artisans, young talent

Port Harcourt’s Bole Festival, organized by Nonii Entertainment, has solidified its status as one of Africa’s most dynamic cultural events, driving economic opportunities and establishing the Rivers State capital as a burgeoning hub for cultural tourism.

The festival, which celebrates bole, a beloved roasted plantain dish from Nigeria’s Niger Delta, typically paired with fish, has grown significantly since its inception in 2016, when it attracted 300 food enthusiasts. By 2025, it drew over 40,000 attendees, showcasing its evolution into a major cultural and economic event.

Chinonso Iwuh, Nonii Entertainment chief executive officer, in a statement, said the festival’s growth shows the power of culture to generate jobs, promote local businesses, and foster community development.

The inaugural event was held in 2016 with about 300 food lovers in attendance, the festival has since expanded to draw more than 40,000 participants in 2025. It celebrates bole, a roasted plantain delicacy from Nigeria’s Niger Delta, often served with fish and has broadened its scope to include live music, fashion shows, art exhibitions, and food demonstrations.

This year’s edition received sponsorship from global brands such as Guinness, Johnnie Walker, MTN, Campari, Maggi, and Moniepoint. The British Council Nigeria also backed the festival by supporting 10 emerging artists, offering young Nigerians a platform to showcase their talent.

Organisers said the Rivers state government has remained a consistent supporter of the event, which continues to provide commercial opportunities for vendors, artisans, and small businesses while promoting the region’s heritage.

They described the festival as a reunion of culture, food, and people and noted that it has grown into more than just a celebration, with Port Harcourt leveraging it to strengthen its role in West Africa’s cultural tourism landscape.