The Food, Beverage and Spa Manager of The Wheatbaker, Salome Danjuma, has called for greater appreciation and promotion of indigenous Nigerian beverages, revealing how local drinks became a major attraction during the 2025 Detty December celebrations.
Speaking at the Naija7Wonders Zoom Conference 3.0, Danjuma said the hotel actively introduced guests to premium locally distilled Ogogoro through a collaboration with Pedro’s, using the festive season to educate visitors about the drink’s cultural heritage and production process.
According to her, many visitors who were initially unfamiliar with Ogogoro became excited about trying the local spirit after learning its story and significance.
She also highlighted the hotel’s partnership with Nigerian coffee brand Meshai, noting that guests were often surprised by the quality of locally produced coffee served at the hotel’s coffee shop.
Danjuma stressed that indigenous professionals within the hospitality industry are critical to preserving and promoting Nigerian products, arguing that local managers better understand the country’s cultural assets and how to present them to global audiences.
She urged Nigerians to become ambassadors of their own culture by speaking positively about the country, its food, beverages and tourism potential, insisting that the organic rise of Detty December was largely fueled by Nigerians proudly sharing their experiences with the rest of the world.
Referencing a comment made during a previous industry discussion, Danjuma said, “The difference between Sango and Thor is marketing,” adding that Nigerians must learn to celebrate and market their own heritage with the same confidence given to foreign cultures.
