Whether you’re strolling through Lagos traffic, wandering a market in Enugu, or taking a road trip through Northern Nigeria, there’s always a snack waiting to be taken along.
Suya is more than just food—it’s an evening ritual for many Nigerians. This spicy skewered meat (usually beef, chicken, or goat) is marinated with the famous yaji spice mix — a blend of ground peanuts, ginger, garlic, and chili — then grilled to perfection.
Where to find it: Suya spots light up across Nigeria at night, especially in Abuja, Lagos, and Northern Nigeria.
Boli is the perfect blend of sweet and smoky. Ripe or semi-ripe plantains are roasted over open flames, then served with groundnut (peanuts) or a spicy pepper sauce.
Where to find it: Popular across Nigeria, especially in Lagos and Port Harcourt.
Simple but iconic, roasted groundnuts are a classic Nigerian street snack. Sold in little paper cones or bottles, they’re crunchy, slightly salty, and totally addictive.
Where to find it: Almost everywhere — from roadside hawkers to bus stops.
Known as African Salad, Abacha is made from shredded dried cassava mixed with palm oil, ugba (oil bean), onions, and spices. It’s a specialty of Eastern Nigeria and packs a tangy, spicy punch.
Where to find it: Mostly in Enugu, Imo, and Anambra markets and street stalls.
This deep red hibiscus drink is Nigeria’s answer to iced tea. Made from hibiscus petals, ginger, and pineapple peels, Zobo is sweet, tangy, and refreshing.
Where to find it: Sold in sachets or bottles by hawkers nationwide.
One of Nigeria’s most luxurious street delicacies — giant African snails cooked in fiery pepper sauce. It’s chewy, spicy, and unforgettable.
Where to find it: Street grills and roadside joints, especially in Lagos and the South-West.
Think of them as Nigerian doughnuts — soft, fluffy, slightly sweet, and deep-fried to golden perfection. Puff-puff is one of the most loved snacks across the country.
Where to find it: Sold by hawkers, in markets, and even in traffic.
Roasted corn is a seasonal street food superstar. It’s often paired with ube (African pear), which is softened by warming over the fire.
Where to find it: Best during the rainy season (May–August) across Nigeria.
A filling and protein-rich pudding made from Bambara nut flour, palm oil, and spices. Okpa is a staple in Enugu and loved by locals and travelers alike.
Where to find it: Roadside vendors in Eastern Nigeria, especially Enugu.
Ask any Nigerian — Gala (a beef sausage roll) paired with La Casera apple drink is the ultimate “stuck in traffic” snack combo.
Where to find it: Bus parks and traffic hawkers everywhere.
Akara is made from blended beans, seasoned, and deep-fried into crispy bean cakes. It’s a favorite breakfast item often paired with bread or pap (ogi).
Where to find it: Street stalls — especially mornings in markets.
A traditional Northern drink made from millet, sorghum, or maize, flavored with ginger and spices. Kunu is lightly sweet, slightly spicy, and very refreshing.
Where to find it: Northern Nigeria, but increasingly popular in cities like Abuja and Lagos.
Nigeria’s street food is vibrant, affordable, and endlessly delicious. From the fiery suya you grab at night to the puff-puff you munch on your way to work, every bite tells a story about Nigeria’s culture and love for flavor.
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Whether you’re a tourist, an expat, or a local looking to rediscover Nigeria’s culinary gems, these 12 street foods are a must-try.