Wisdom, a young school leaver from Nigeria’s South-South region, now lives in Lagos with his brothers. Like many others, he has turned to street food vending as a practical means of survival—and for him, it’s more than just a hustle, it’s a way of life.
In recent years, a quiet revolution has been taking place on Nigeria’s streets. More young men, like Wisdom, are breaking away from societal norms and diving headfirst into the street food business—a space once dominated almost entirely by women.
This shift is significant in a country where iconic songs like Styl-Plus’s 2006 hit “Iya Basira” once celebrated the traditional female street vendor. The lyrics, “this food sweet no be small,” echo a sentiment shared by many Nigerians who depend on local food vendors for daily sustenance.
Street food in Nigeria thrives in densely populated, budget-conscious areas and caters primarily to the working class and low-income earners. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), these are ready-to-eat meals and beverages sold in public spaces by vendors and hawkers—an industry now attracting an increasing number of young male entrepreneurs.
From Ewa Agoyin in the South-West to Abacha in the South-East and Suya in the North, each region boasts its own street food specialty. Affordable, accessible, and deeply embedded in local culture, street foods serve millions across Nigeria.
Male Entrepreneurs Making Waves
The presence of young men in this industry signals a bold shift, highlighting their resilience and entrepreneurial spirit in the face of economic challenges and limited white-collar job opportunities.
“Nigerian men can excel in the street food business if given the right platform,” says Modupe Oni, a Lagos-based entrepreneur. She points to qualities like patience, agility, and charm as assets that give men a unique edge.
She cited the example of Solar Kitchen in Festac, a food business run by a young man who has brought innovation to the typical street food setup—replacing plastic tables and coolers with outdoor tents, glass displays, and an elevated dining experience.
According to Oni, while certain foods like Shawarma, Noodles, and Suya have long been male-dominated, more men are venturing into broader segments of the industry. And while some consumers still hold gendered perceptions about food vendors, others agree that when hunger strikes, it’s the taste—not the seller’s gender—that matters most.
Food Quality and Safety Still a Concern
Despite its popularity, the street food sector is plagued by long-standing issues around hygiene, food safety, and quality. Many vendors operate in open-air environments where food is exposed to dust, smoke, and pollutants, and buyers frequently touch products with bare hands during the selection process.
Improper storage, lack of regulation, and unsafe preparation methods raise public health concerns, yet millions still choose convenience over caution. The popular notion that “disease no dey kill black man” reflects the carefree attitude many consumers adopt despite the risks.
Health experts warn that the sector’s unregulated nature makes it difficult to trace foodborne illnesses to their source. Without stronger oversight, the potential for life-threatening conditions will remain a significant public health issue.
Stakeholders—including government agencies, private organizations, and regulatory bodies—must take proactive steps to enforce food safety standards and educate both vendors and consumers on proper hygiene practices. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the dangers of contaminated food are essential.
Corporate Interest and Market Potential
With over 200 million people, Nigeria presents a lucrative market for the street food sector. Increasing demand and the cultural relevance of local delicacies are now drawing attention from corporate organizations, who are investing in events and initiatives that spotlight the economic value of street food vendors.
This growing recognition has paved the way for more structure and visibility in the sector, making it not just a survival strategy but a legitimate and profitable enterprise for young entrepreneurs.
Ultimately, whether it’s puff-puff on a busy morning or a sizzling plate of Suya at dusk, street food remains a vital part of Nigerian life. And with more young men entering the arena, the face of the industry is evolving—boldly and unapologetically.
