Plateau State is set to make history as it welcomes Nigeria’s maiden International Coffee Festival, taking place from August 28–30, 2025 at Langfield, Little Rayfield, Jos. Organized by Lingzhi Global Nigeria Ltd., the event aims to reposition coffee from an overlooked crop to a catalyst for economic growth, job creation, and cultural exchange.
At a press briefing, Blessing Nanman, CEO of Lingzhi Global, described the festival as “a legacy project” that will rotate annually across all 36 states, starting in Plateau.
“This is not just a beverage festival,” Nanman said. “It’s about empowerment, job creation, mindset shift, and national development. Plateau State is taking the lead to inspire others.”
The three-day celebration will host participants from over 30 countries, including coffee giants like Brazil, and will feature:
• Barista competitions and coffee tastings
• Workshops, training sessions, and cultural exhibitions
• A full coffee journey showcase –from planting to roasting, packaging, branding, and sales
• Traditional Plateau dishes paired with locally brewed coffee
Beyond the festivities, Nanman unveiled ambitious post-event plans: 821 coffee shops nationwide, mobile coffee carts, coffee education centers, and start-up grants for coffee and chocolate entrepreneurs. These initiatives are projected to create over 10,000 jobs within three years.
For local farmers, the festival marks a turning point. Mr. Fei-Ishaku Davou, Chairman of the Plateau State Chapter of the National Coffee and Tea Association of Nigeria, recalled past challenges – including a 2005 incident when a farmer burned his 10,000-seedling farm due to lack of market access.
“We have the farmers and the foundation,” Davou said. “Now it’s time to build.”
The Plateau State Government has pledged full support, seeing the festival as a driver for youth empowerment and economic revival. Nanven Barko, Chairman of the local organizing committee, added:
“We are not just creating jobs. We are reviving our economy. We are uplifting the naira. Coffee can once again be our pride.”
Organizers believe Plateau’s unique altitude, fertile soil, and favorable climate make it Nigeria’s coffee capital. With global attention turning to Jos this August, the state is brewing more than coffee –it’s brewing opportunity, innovation, and national pride.
For vendor bookings and participation details, visit cfin.lingzhiafrica.com/bookings or call 07044298455 / 09021412121.