Photo credit: Daily Struggle By Nidala Muhammad Rabiu Students of Mewar International University, Masaka, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday tran...
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| Photo credit: Daily Struggle |
By Nidala Muhammad Rabiu
Students of Mewar International University, Masaka, Nasarawa State, on Tuesday transformed their campus into a vibrant national food arena as cultures from across Nigeria converged in an expansive culinary exhibition that combined heritage, unity and generous institutional recognition.
The cultural food exhibition, held on February 4, 2026, was part of activities marking the 4th edition of the university’s Cultural Week, ahead of the matriculation ceremony scheduled for Saturday, February 7, 2026.
Beyond the colourful display of indigenous meals, the event gained further momentum when the Pro-Chancellor (Administration) and Proprietor of Mewar International University, Nigeria, Engr. Abubakar Sani Bello announced cash rewards for participating cultural groups.
According to the arrangement, each cultural group was awarded ₦20,000 per food flask presented, with total earnings ranging from ₦20,000 to as much as ₦120,000, depending on the number of flasks exhibited by each culture. The announcement was met with excitement, as students proudly counted their flasks and celebrated the recognition of their cultural effort.
Nigeria’s Cultures, Served and Rewarded
Kanuri students from the North-East presented multiple flasks of traditional meals, including Danderu, Biski, Yakuwa, Aleyyahu, Tamarind, Marɗo and Mansha Soup (Farfesu), earning one of the highest collective rewards.
Yoruba students showcased Amala, Ewedu, Gbegiri, Moimoi, and Ofada rice with sauce and palm wine, while Fulani students displayed Nyiiri with Ɓokko, Haako Kase and Ɓe Kwasam ɓe Dekere, reflecting the depth of pastoral culinary traditions.
Hausa students served Masa with Miyan Taushe, Shinkafa da Wake (Garau-Garau) and Ɗanwake, and the Bagyi (Gbagyi) tribe presented Miyar Akaki, Tuwon Ruwa, Tuwon Masara and Pami, highlighting cuisines indigenous to central Nigeria.
From Kogi State, Igala students displayed Oje Oskapa, Obo Egwa, Oskapa Okpeye, Oro Dudu, Okpa and Akamu, while students from the South-South region, representing Edo, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River and Rivers States, added coastal flavours with Banga soup and starch, pounded yam, and bole with fish and pepper sauce.
Shuwa Arab students also featured prominently, presenting Kabsar rice and Kunun Madara, further expanding the cultural spread of the exhibition.
₦120,000 Anthem Moment
The event took an emotional turn when the management announced that any student who could flawlessly sing the university anthem would receive ₦20,000.
Blessing Dickson, a 400-level student of the Department of Public Administration, confidently accepted the challenge and delivered the anthem without a single mistake. Impressed by her performance, Engr. Bello instantly rewarded her with an additional ₦100,000, transferred on the spot, bringing her total cash reward to ₦120,000.
“I am really proud. Thank you very much, sir,” she said while addressing journalists shortly after receiving the alert.
“Culture Unites Us, Not Divides Us” — Pro-Chancellor
Speaking at the event, Engr. Bello described the exhibition as overwhelming and deeply symbolic.
“I am confused about which food to choose. Anyone who checks any stall will be confused because all the foods are the best. I am so proud,” he said.
He commended the students for showcasing their roots, stressing that culture remains a powerful tool for national unity.
Student leader Amina Isa Muhammad, representing the Igala group, said the exhibition rekindled cultural memories and identity.
“No matter where you go, learn about your culture and spread it—that is your identity,” she advised.
More Than a Food Exhibition
Members of the university’s top management, including the Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Professor Olabode Agunbiade, who represented the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Muhammad Tanko, teaching and non-teaching staff, and students from across the faculties, attended the event.
By the end of the day, the exhibition had become more than a culinary showcase; it was a statement of inclusion, pride and unity, reinforced by tangible rewards for cultural excellence.
As activities for the Cultural Week continue, the February 4 food exhibition stands out as a defining moment, where culture met cuisine, and identity was not only celebrated but generously rewarded.
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