List of beers and breweries in Nigeria

International Breweries office building in Ilesa Jan2014

List of Beers and Breweries in Nigeria

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, has a rich and diverse beer culture with a variety of beers and breweries spread across the nation. This article provides an overview of the notable beers and breweries in Nigeria, highlighting the country's brewing tradition and the significant role beer plays in its social fabric.

Beers in Nigeria

Nigeria offers a wide range of beers, from popular lagers to traditional ales, reflecting the diverse tastes of its population. Some of the most renowned beers include:

• Star Lager: Brewed by Nigerian Breweries, Star Lager is arguably the most popular beer in Nigeria. It was first introduced in 1949, making it the country's first indigenously brewed beer.
• Gulder Lager: Also produced by Nigerian Breweries, Gulder is known for its rich, crisp taste and higher alcohol content compared to other lagers in the market.
• Legend Stout: A Nigerian stout that offers a darker, richer beer option. Brewed by Guinness Nigeria, it is one of the leading stouts in the country.
• Harp Lager: Brewed by Guinness Nigeria, Harp is a light and refreshing lager that has been a favorite among Nigerians for decades.
• Hero Lager: Introduced by International Breweries Plc, Hero Lager has quickly gained popularity, especially in the southeastern part of Nigeria, for its unique taste and branding.

Breweries in Nigeria

The Nigerian brewing industry is dominated by a few major players, each operating multiple breweries across the country. These include:

• Nigerian Breweries: Founded in 1946, it is the largest brewing company in Nigeria. It operates several breweries across the country and produces a wide range of beers, including Star Lager, Gulder Lager, and Maltina.
• Guinness Nigeria: A subsidiary of Diageo plc, Guinness Nigeria has been brewing in the country since 1962. It is well-known for producing Guinness Foreign Extra Stout, Harp Lager, and Malta Guinness.
• International Breweries Plc: Part of the AB InBev group, International Breweries Plc is known for producing Hero Lager, Trophy Lager, and Budweiser.

Traditional and Craft Beers

In addition to the mainstream beers, Nigeria also has a tradition of brewing local beers and spirits, which are an integral part of the country's cultural heritage. These include:

• Palm Wine: A traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of various species of palm trees. It is widely consumed across Nigeria and plays a significant role in social and cultural events.
• Burukutu: A traditional beer made from sorghum or millet, popular in the northern regions of Nigeria.
• The craft beer scene in Nigeria is still in its infancy but is gradually growing, with a few microbreweries and craft beer bars appearing in major cities.

Conclusion

The beer industry in Nigeria is a significant part of the country's economy and culture, offering a wide range of products from mass-produced lagers to traditional beverages. As the craft beer movement gains momentum, the variety of beers available in Nigeria is expected to increase, further enriching the country's beer culture.