The kitchen came alive in Awka as a young culinary star from Anambra State stole the spotlight, proving that age is no barrier to excellence when passion meets opportunity.
A college student from St. Charles College, Onitsha, Ikechukwu Ifechukwu, has emerged winner of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s cooking competition, organised under the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo initiative — and social media can’t stop talking about it.
Held at the Banquet Hall of the Light House, Awka, the competition brought together students from across Anambra’s 21 local government areas, all battling for culinary bragging rights. The challenge? Prepare delicious, healthy meals under strict time and hygiene rules — and impress seasoned judges.
Within one hour and twenty minutes, contestants showcased their skills in:
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Taste and flavour
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Food hygiene
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Plating and presentation
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Professional service
By the end of the contest, Ifechukwu’s dish stood out, earning him top honours and loud applause from guests and officials alike.
Representing the Onitsha zone, the young cook outshone competitors from Aguata and Nnewi zones, who finished as runners-up. His victory wasn’t just about cooking — it was about creativity, confidence, and discipline in the kitchen.
Visibly excited after his win, Ifechukwu thanked the Anambra First Lady, Dr Nonye Soludo, and credited his mother for teaching him the importance of healthy cooking from a young age.
According to organisers, the competition wasn’t only for fun. It aimed to:
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Promote healthy living among students
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Encourage interest in nutrition and hospitality careers
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Highlight the importance of indigenous foods
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Break gender stereotypes around cooking
An added highlight of the event was a Healthy Living Quiz, which saw the Nnewi zone team clinch first place, further spicing up the day.
With this win, Ikechukwu Ifechukwu has become one of Anambra’s youngest culinary sensations, inspiring students across the state to dream bigger — whether in the classroom or the kitchen.