‘The one who brings kola, brings life.’

An Igbo proverb that embraces the multiplicities and connections that a symbol can have. In the ancestral context kola is an item that embodies the universe, connects us to our ancestors and the elements of nature. Food has a multitude of connections and significance: moments, culture, history, and geography.

Sharing Igbo heritage, and diaspora upbringing, both Onye Ahanotu (Ikenga Wines) and Nikki (Ginika) Edmunds have strong connections to culture through food. For Nikki, her concept named Naij, was born from both a desire to learn more about her culinary heritage and a yearning for her late mother’s cooking.

Food as a medium of connection

“I’ve always loved exploring cuisines from around the world, particularly through thoughtfully curated dining experiences, and I wanted to create that same opportunity for Nigerian food. Naij’s goal is to celebrate Nigerian cuisine and culture in an elevated setting while creating an experience that encourages guests to learn about the history, traditions, and stories behind the food. In a city as diverse as Washington, D.C., I saw an opportunity for Nigerian cuisine to occupy more of the spaces traditionally dominated by European and Asian cuisines. Not by changing what Nigerian food is, but by celebrating the complexity, richness, and beauty already there.” – Nikki

This vision was first brought to life in summer 2026, during their first supper club featuring a five-course menu inspired predominantly by dishes from Eastern Nigeria. The menu included familiar favorites like jollof rice and egusi stew, alongside lesser-known dishes like abacha and pepper soup. With care and intention in the curation, of course beverages would not be overlooked. Guests were welcomed with a cocktail of kola nut syrup, rum, and lime topped with Ikenga’s Traditional-ish sparkling wine—a nod to the cultural significance of kola nut and its connection to hospitality and gathering. Following the welcome, each course was paired with a selection from Ikenga Wines.

“Pairing Nigerian food with Ikenga felt particularly special because the wines complemented the bold, spicy, and savory flavors of the dishes while adding another layer of Nigerian storytelling to the evening.” – Nikki

If you are curious to dive deeper the culinary context of South Eastern Nigeria, we encourage you to join Naij in DC for their second supper club on October 24th, where they’ll continue exploring Nigerian cuisine and culture through food and storytelling. You can also follow them on Instagram at @naijdc.

Nikki (Ginika) Edmonds – Founder @ NaijDC // Onye Ahanotu – Founder @ Ikenga Wines