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Nigeria is probably one of the countries with the most unique dishes because there are over 350 ethnic groups. It’s the most obvious expression of Nigeria’s cultural and regional diversity. No one has ever accused us of not being able to throw down in the kitchen.
We have several styles of cooking, numerous local spices, and a gazillion recipes. Heck, Nigerian cuisine is going through a renaissance throughout the world. Our jollof and suya are eaten everywhere now, and the more people discover just how much culinary star power we pack, the more they will appreciate what we have to offer as a nation.
However, in recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in the Nigerian food landscape, marked by the growing popularity of fast food staples such as sandwiches, fries, and burgers. This shift has not only transformed the way Nigerians eat but also reflects broader changes in lifestyle, urbanization, and globalization.
So, when did Nigerians start embracing the Western-style fast food that includes sandwiches, fries, and burgers?
The introduction of these Western fast food items can be traced back to the latter half of the 20th century, coinciding with Nigeria’s rapid urbanization and increased exposure to global influences. As cities expanded and more people moved to urban centers for work opportunities, the pace of life accelerated, leading to changes in dietary preferences and eating habits.
There’s also the rather unconscious imbibing of Western culture, especially American culture, through media—TV, music videos, and movies. There was an unwritten consensus that everything American was cool, so it only made sense that their food was considered cool too.
One significant factor that contributed to the rise of sandwiches, fries, and burgers in Nigeria was the influence of Western fast-food chains. In the 1980s and 1990s, international fast-food giants like McDonald’s and KFC began to establish a presence in major Nigerian cities. The convenience and speed of service offered by these establishments resonated with the urban population, especially those with busy lifestyles who sought quick and affordable meals.
Fast-forward to 2023, and there is a proliferation of fast food chains in urban areas, especially in Lags. Now we have KFC, Chicken Republic, Burger King, and like a hundred more fast-food chains in Nigeria. And Nigerians—Gen Z and young millennials—have developed a palate that quite likes these flavours.
There’s a clear distinction between the generations that love fast food and the generations that will squeeze their noses at burgers. There’s a noticeable generational divide when it comes to the acceptance of fast food. Older generations, aged 40 and above, often view these Western-style offerings with skepticism, considering them less as “real foods.” In contrast, the age group between 12 and 40 has seamlessly integrated fast food into their culinary preferences, readily ordering and enjoying sandwiches, fries, and burgers.
This clear distinction in the acceptance of fast food across generations highlights a cultural shift that unfolded over the decades. The younger demographic, influenced by a globalized world and exposed to Western ideals through various media, has embraced fast food as a convenient and enjoyable part of their culinary experience. Meanwhile, older generations, anchored in traditional culinary values, maintain a certain skepticism toward these foreign flavours.
Also, know who to buy burgers for to avoid problems. Don’t take your parents out to a fast food restaurant. Let’s be guided, please. Except you want to get hit with that judgy Nigerian mean mug face and a bewildered “what is this?” or worse, “kileyi?”
In conclusion, the adoption of sandwiches, fries, and burgers in Nigeria is a product of a complex interplay between urbanization, global influences, and the appeal of international fast-food chains. Which camp are you? Team fast food or team traditional? Also, do yo remember the first time you ate a burger? When was it? Did you like it?
