Whether you’re craving savoury or sweet, there’s something to satisfy every palate on the bustling streets across Nigeria; from the North or the South, East and West, there’s always something for everyone.

Nigerian street food is basically an adventure for the senses that should not be missed. Join us as we explore the irresistible delights that define street food culture in Nigeria.

SUYA

No mention of Nigerian street foods would be complete without mentioning suya. This popular grilled meat delicacy, typically made from skewered beef, chicken, gizzard, liver, and other kinds of meat, is seasoned with a blend of spices that often include ground peanuts, ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper. Suya is often served with sliced onions, tomatoes, cucumber, yaji (suya pepper), etc., creating a perfect balance of heat and flavour. While it is more popular in the North, it can be found everywhere else and is mainly sold at night.

AKARA

Although it’s also a savoury meal in Nigerian homes, it likewise serves as a savoury snack on the go.

These deep-fried bean cakes, made from ground beans, are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Akara is commonly enjoyed for breakfast or as a midday snack and pairs perfectly with bread or pap (a Nigerian porridge made from fermented maize).

PUFF-PUFF

Sweet, fluffy, and irresistible puff-puff is a classic street food that satisfies any sweet tooth. They are deep-fried dough balls made from a simple batter of flour, sugar, yeast, and water and are enjoyed plain or with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Puff-puff is a staple at celebrations, street corners, and roadside stalls nationwide.

BOLE AND FISH

In Port Harcourt, bole and fish reign supreme as a beloved street food combination. Bole refers to roasted plantains grilled over an open flame until tender, imparting a smoky flavour, and it’s typically served with grilled fish and a side of spicy pepper sauce with optional pumpkin leaves (ugwu) or plain with groundnuts. Although this hearty and flavorful dish is most popular in Port Harcourt, it is sold in most other places.

FRIES

Mainly consisting of fried potatoes, yams, and plantains, these fries are common on the streets and are sold at any time of the day. So whether you want it as an early breakfast on your way to work or a late dinner to call it a day, it is available to you.

EWA AGOYIN

This is a popular street food, especially in the South. It is basically beans cooked till really soft and then mashed. The magic of it all is the delicious pepper sauce it is typically served with. It pairs greatly with either yam or bread.