Owambe Souvenirs Go Back to Basics: Hosts Now Gift Garri, Rice, and Food Items to Guests

Nigeria’s iconic owambe parties are seeing a new trend in souvenirs, as hosts shift from traditional household items to practical food gifts like garri, rice, beans, and palm oil.

Historically, guests at big Nigerian celebrations received souvenirs such as jotters, bowls, coolers, flasks, umbrellas, and other decorative items. Expensive asoebi buyers often got higher-value gifts, but many of these items were left unused, cluttering homes.

Economy & Lifestyle reports that to cut costs and ensure gifts are valued, hosts are increasingly distributing food items packaged in small, branded pouches—typically 1–2 kg—reflecting the event. These are given to guests who purchased asoebi for the occasion.

Mrs. Gbemi Omoeye, a businesswoman, recounted her disappointment at a recent burial ceremony: “I bought asoebi for N25,000 and expected a meaningful souvenir. Instead, the host gave out 1 kg of garri. I just walked out. Who cannot afford 1 kg of garri?”

Similarly, Mr. Nurudeen Ashafa, a bricklayer, described receiving a souvenir bag containing garri, rice, and tomato paste after buying N17,000 worth of asoebi lace material. “The host explained that food is more useful than plastics, which often end up abandoned at home. Given the cost of living, many guests appreciate a practical gift they can use,” he said.

Event planners confirm this shift is practical and cost-effective. Madam Flora Obazee, a caterer, noted: “Food items are cheap in bulk and truly appreciated. Guests can also pass them on to those in need. Some hosts still give larger quantities to high-spending guests, including cartons of noodles or bigger bags of rice and garri.”

This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards practical gifting at events, ensuring souvenirs are not only memorable but also genuinely useful for guests.