Instant Owambe!

Just as with many African nations, Nigeria has been beset by power struggles, civil unrest and corruption. However, when it comes to culture and people, Nigeria is considered a very joyful place!

This joyfulness is most notably expressed by the concept of ‘Owambe’ which basically means ‘We’re here – as in, at the party!’ It’s often characterized by a show of luxury, lavish spending, colour and extravaganza – weddings, birthdays or any excuse to celebrate.

The music is loud, the dancing non-stop and the entire scene is illuminated by shimmering headpieces (gele) and brilliantly coloured traditional dress (aso ebi). The hosts are lavished with gifts and cash from family and friends.

And of course, there is plenty of food. Many hours in the making, special festive dishes such as jollof rice, moinmoin and efo-riro are traditional. It’s no wonder that for many revellers, the food is their favourite part of the party. And that’s where Varo’s Jollof rice comes in with a joyful, flavourful and a belly full of Owambe feeling!

The Varo brand was founded back in 2011 by Nigerian husband and wife team Omamo and Elizabeth Binitie with a mission to “bring a taste of authentic Nigeria to the streets of Britain”.

Family (and friends) first helped Varo get its brand in retail shape a few years ago with the aim of looking like a credible player in store for those who imagined ‘world food’ to be a strange place. Recently we’ve rebooted the party with a whole new, flamboyantly positioned packaging – literally celebrating all that’s fun and flavourful about Nigerian party food –with all the secret ingredients Mama uses!

The new brand look aims to own that energy and passion – with a refreshed logo and pack imagery that is inspired by the party; the flare of the ‘aso-ebi’ fabric colours and visualizing the sound of fun, laughter and energy of Afrobeat music all crashed together into an explosive and colourful collage!