Have you ever wondered about the artistry behind a truly great cocktail? We asked the master of the craft and a champion of the Nigerian bartending scene. Meet Joshua Alabi, the celebrated winner of the Diageo World Class 2025 Bartender of Nigeria competition and the Group Mixologist at Center Point.
His expertise goes far beyond the bar. As a respected leader in the Nigerian beverage industry, he serves as the Member Chairman and Coordinator of the Bartenders Guild Of Nigeria, Abuja, and is a proud member of the Bartenders Guild Ghana.
We asked him some questions about his competition journey and this is what he had to say:
1. What was going through your mind the moment they announced you as the winner?
Honestly, it felt unreal. For a moment, everything went quiet in my head. All I could think about was the journey, long hours, the sacrifices, and the people who believed in me. Winning wasn’t just a personal achievement; it was a moment that made me proud to represent West Africa on a global stage.
2. Tell us about your winning cocktails. What’s the story behind them?
Each cocktail was piece of me. I drew inspiration from local culture, flavors, and personal memories, I call it “Imole” which connotes “Light”. One drink celebrated my journey and togetherness with the ingredients while another reflected balance and innovation, my goal was to tell a story in every glass, so each serve carried both flavor and meaning.
3. What’s one thing you learned about yourself during the competition that surprised you?
I realized I thrive the most under pressure. In the mystery box challenge, I thought I’d be nervous but instead I found clarity and creativity. It taught me that I’m stronger and more adaptable than I gave myself credit for.
4. If you could describe your bartending style in three words, what would they be?
It would be Innovative, Story driven and Rooted
5. What local Nigerian ingredients do you think is underrated in cocktails?
Definitely Uda(grains of selim). Its smoky, peppery flavor is so versatile, it can elevate a simple highball or bring depth to a stirred serve. It deserves more recognition on the global stage.
6. How do you see your win changing the game for bartenders in Nigeria?
I see it as proof that Nigerian bartenders have a talent and creativity to compete with the best in the world on a global stage. My win isn’t just mine it’s an invitation for more bartenders to dream bigger, push boundaries and believe that our stories and flavors belong in global conversations.
7. Who is your biggest inspiration, both in and out of the bar?
In the bar, I draw inspiration from bartenders who blend storytelling with craft, those who remind us that cocktails are more than drinks but they’re experiences. Out of the bar, my inspiration comes from my boss Mr. Maddison. He’s resilience and support fuel everything I do.
8. What’s the best advice you’ve ever received in your career?
Be authentic and let your roots guide your creativity. It reminds me that technique is important but true artistry comes when you bring yourself and your culture, your values, your story into the glass.
9. What are you most excited about for the Global Finals?
I’m excited to showcase West African flavors on a global stage. I want people to taste something new, something they’ve never experienced before, and leave with a deeper appreciation for where I come from.
10. For someone who wants to become a world class bartender, what’s the first step they should take?
Start with curiosity, learn the classics but also explore your environment, its spices, fruits and herbs. And above all, stay humble and consistent, mastery is built one serve at a time.
Joshua is a driving force for positive change, dedicated to mentoring the next generation of talent and advancing the profession of mixology across West Africa. His passion is helping to shape the future of the craft, one exceptional drink at a time.
