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Tasty Connections Between Nigerian Food Cravings in the UK and Opportunities

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By Gloria Ikibah


If you have ever been away from home, you will understand that one of the toughest things to miss is the food. For Nigerians living in the United Kingdom, the hunger for the spicy, hearty flavours of home is more than just a craving, it’s a piece of their identity.


In the quest to satisfy these hungers, a golden opportunity has emerged for Nigerians back home to step into the global food market. Here’s a look at how the mouthwatering appeal of Nigerian cuisine in the UK can be turned into a profitable venture for those in Nigeria.


The Craving for Home

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Imagine being in a small town in England, where the local cuisine is dominated by fish and chips, and the nearest taste of home is miles away. For many Nigerians in the UK, this scenario is a reality. They find themselves craving for the rich flavors of Jollof rice, spicy Suya, spicy and tasty kilishi from maiduguri and the comforting taste of Egusi soup, ofe onugbu, the niger delta native and fisherman soups, to the edikaikong andmlaafang of the Ibibios, how about the amala, ewedu and gbegiri or is it the efo riro from the Yoruba kingdom, don’t also forget the famous miyan kuka, miyan taushe eaten with tuwon shinkafa, even the ewa agoyin, and the list is endless. It’s not just about eating; it’s about connecting with their roots, celebrating their culture, and enjoying the flavors that remind them of home.


These food cravings are not just fleeting desires; they’re deep, emotional connections to their heritage. And while there are some Nigerian restaurants and shops in the UK, they often don’t offer the full array of dishes or may not be easily accessible. This is where a unique opportunity lies.


Bridging the Gap: An Opportunity for Nigerians at Home
For Nigerians in the UK, finding authentic Nigerian food can be a challenge. But for those back home in Nigeria, this craving opens a window of opportunity. Here’s how you can tap into this niche market and make some serious cash:

1. Exporting Nigerian Delicacies

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You may want to consider exporting some of Nigeria’s finest culinary delights? Have you imagined packaging and shipping Jollof rice, Egusi soup, and spicy Suya to Nigerian communities in the UK. You can start with small, manageable batches to test the market and ensure the packaging preserves freshness and adheres to international food safety standards.

Also you can partner with local businesses or use of online platforms can help you reach your audience more effectively.

2. Online Grocery Stores**

Create an online grocery store specializing in Nigerian ingredients.  Many Nigerians in the UK struggle to find authentic spices, condiments, and ingredients. By setting up an online shop that sells items like ground crayfish, palm oil, or Nigerian pepper, even banga spicies or you can cater to their needs. But make sure that you provide detailed descriptions and use high-quality images to attract buyers.

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3. Ready-to-Cook Kits

How about offering ready-to-cook kits? These kits can include pre-measured ingredients and easy-to-follow recipes for classic Nigerian dishes. They make cooking simpler for those who miss the taste of home but do not have the time or expertise to prepare it from scratch. Just think about how excited a Nigerian in the UK would be to receive a kit that allows them to recreate their favorite meal with ease!

4. Subscription Boxes

Consider a subscription box service. Nigerians in the UK could subscribe to a monthly box that includes a variety of Nigerian snacks like kuli kuli, ridi, kokoro, tanfili, ichekwu, alewa, spices for pepper soup, other soups, and cooking ingredients. This could also include recipe cards and tips for cooking. It’s a fantastic way to keep them connected to their culture and provide them with the comfort of familiar tastes on a regular basis.

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5. Collaboration with Local Restaurants

You may want to also partner with Nigerian restaurants in the UK, many of these businesses might be interested in sourcing ingredients directly from Nigeria to ensure authenticity and quality. By establishing a supply chain, you can help these businesses maintain their standards and expand their offerings.


Marketing and Customer Engagement

If you must succeed, understanding your target market is key. Ypu would have to engage with Nigerian communities in the UK through social media and online forums. This will give you insights into their preferences and needs. Use this feedback to tailor your products and services. Creating a buzz around your offerings through social media campaigns, influencer partnerships, and engaging content can help attract and retain customers.

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Offering excellent customer service is crucial. Make sure to address queries promptly, provide detailed information about your products, and ensure timely delivery. Happy customers are more likely to become repeat buyers and recommend your services to others. You must always have it in mind that “customers are always right”.


Challenges and Solutions

Every business has its challenges. For those exporting food products, there might be concerns about shelf life and customs regulations. Invest in high-quality packaging and learn about export regulations. Working with experienced logistics partners can help you navigate these complexities.
In terms of setting up an online store, invest in a user-friendly platform and consider offering various payment options to cater to international buyers.


Embracing the Future

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The global market for Nigerian cuisine is expanding, and the UK is just one example of how these opportunities can be harnessed. By capitalizing on the strong desire for authentic Nigerian food and creating innovative ways to deliver it, Nigerians back home can make a significant impact and turn cravings into cash.


So, whether you’re packaging up spicy Suya for a customer in London or setting up an online store for Nigerian ingredients, remember that you’re not just selling food—you’re offering a taste of home. And there’s no better way to connect people to their roots than through the delicious, vibrant flavors of Nigerian cuisine.


With the right approach, passion, and understanding of the market, you can turn these food cravings into a successful and rewarding business venture.


Get cooking, and watch your opportunities grow as you bring a piece of Nigeria to tables far and wide.

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INEC ought to have archived recall petition long ago-Senator Natasha

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan on Thursday hailed the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for rejecting a petition to recall her as the lawmaker representing Kogi Central Senatorial District.

The lawmaker, who was a guest on Channels Television’s Politics Today, said the electoral umpire should have thrown out the petition long before it did on April 3, 2025.

“I’m a lawyer. I’m a senator and I understand how Nigeria works. For me, the most important thing is this recall process has been stalled.

“I give kudos and credit to INEC even though I believe they should have thrown it away from the get-go.

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“I think it was void ab initio because there is no law in the Electoral Act that says a petition should be discarded just because there is no address but again, what if the address is false?”

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) chieftain argued that most of the addresses provided in the petition for her recall were false because most houses in her district weren’t labelled.

Even though INEC did count 208,000 signatures, I bet you if they had gone into the verification stage, they would have struggled to even have 500 people come out to attest to signing that,” she added.

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We’re putting together new 2025 Budget for Rivers-Ibas

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…hosts Delegation Of Rivers NASS Caucus

The Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas, has said that an appropriation bill for 2025 is being articulated to provide for critical development concerns in healthcare delivery, education, agriculture and infrastructure.

Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas also said that the anticipated budget will cater to creating more employment opportunities for Rivers people and advance delivery of technology in critical facets of public life.

The administrator gave the hint when he hosted the delegation of Rivers State caucus at the National Assembly, led by Dr Barinada Mpigi, the Senator representing Rivers South-East District, at Government House in Port Harcourt on Thursday.

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Those on the delegation included Senator Allwell Onyesoh, the minority leader of the House of Representatives, Rep. Kingsley Chinda, Hon Dumnamene Dekor, Hon Solomon Bob, Hon Cyril Godwin Hart,
Hon Blessing Amadi, Hon. Felix Nwaeke, Hon Kelechi Nwogu, and Hon Victor Obuzor

Ibas said he has been resolute, since assumption of office, to restore law and order, and with support from the security agencies, an environment has been created where Rivers residents feel valued and safer.

The Administrator stated that the commitment is to make Rivers a model of peace in the comity of States, with a stable economy and citizens courageous to pursue their livelihood without fear or molestation.

“In addition to our peace building efforts, we are also focused on the economic stability and development of Rivers State.

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“Since the Supreme Court verdict on the state’s budget, we have acted swiftly and decided to put together a new budget that reflects our commitment to healthcare, education, social services, and continued infrastructural development.

“We have worked diligently to ensure that the process is transparent, inclusive, and most importantly expedited. Our goal is to ensure that we do not lose any more time in making the necessary investments that will improve the lives of citizens.”

Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas stated: “The budget which is been finalized focuses on creating job opportunities and investing in key sectors such as agriculture, infrastructure, and technology.

“We understand the urgency of this initiative, and we are committed to ensuring that they are implemented without delay.”

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The Administrator noted that to get the task done, the support of the legislators will be required as key representatives of Rivers State in the National Assembly.

He sued for their assistance in securing the necessary resources and legislative backing that would bring the initiative of his administration to fruition.

“Your partnership is critical to success in ensuring that Rivers State remains on the path of progress and enduring peace for future generations.”

He explained that in the face of the challenges that beset Rivers, which led to the State of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu, dialogue, community engagement and reconciliation were deplored to build trust among the citizenry.

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He noted that the people of Rivers State have shown incredible resilience and patience in the efforts taken so far to restore the State back to the path of peace and respect for the law.

Vice Admiral (Rtd) Ibas assured that his administration remains committed to achieving enduring peace for the state.

He said: “Beyond security, we have prioritised community engagements as a central part of our strategy. Dialogue, reconciliation, and inclusivity have been key to building trust among our people.

“We are determined to strengthen the bond of unity in Rivers State and to foster an environment where every citizen feels valued, heard, and respected. Together, we are making strides in ensuring that peace becomes a permanent feature of our state.”

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Responding, Senator Barinada Mpigi, representing Rivers South-East District, said they are dedicated representatives of Rivers people at the National Assembly and resolved to support all efforts that will bring development to the State.

While commending the administrator for the modest successes he had achieved so far, Senator Mpigi pledged the support and cooperation of the legislators to ensure the return of the state on the path of law and order.

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Just in: Shettima jets out to attend Senegal’s independence

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Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Dakar, Senegal for official assignment.

The VP is expected to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the West African nation’s 65th Independence Anniversary celebrations.

Senegal marks its Independence Day on April 4 each year, commemorating its liberation from French colonial rule in 1960.

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The annual celebration is a significant event featuring national parades, cultural displays, and ceremonies highlighting the country’s achievements and unity.

A statement issued on Thursday by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, said Shettima’s participation followed an official invitation from Senegalese President, Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

This underscored the strong diplomatic and economic ties between Nigeria and Senegal.

The two nations share longstanding relations, particularly within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), fostering cooperation on regional security, trade, and development initiatives.

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The event is expected to reaffirm Senegal’s commitment to democratic governance and regional cooperation.

Vice President Shettima is scheduled to return to Nigeria immediately after the one-day celebrations, continuing his engagements in national development and diplomatic outreach.

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