35+ Things To Buy From Nigeria | Gift/Souvenir Items
Are you searching for the perfect gift from Nigeria? Perhaps you’re a tourist looking for authentic keepsakes, a proud Nigerian in the diaspora missing a piece of home, or you’re right here in Lagos, searching for that unique item for a wedding, birthday, or corporate event. The search can be overwhelming!
Nigeria is a treasure trove of culture, art, and flavour, and finding a gift that truly captures its essence is a rewarding experience. Forget the last-minute scramble. We’ve curated the ultimate guide to the best things to buy from Nigeria, a comprehensive list of gift items in nigeria that covers everything from vibrant fashion to soulful art and mouth-watering treats.
Table of Contents
TL;DR – Top 10 Best Things to Buy From Nigeria
If you’re in a hurry, here are the top souvenirs and gifts to buy from Nigeria:
- Ankara & Adire Fabrics – Vibrant African prints and handmade tie-dye.
- Beaded Jewelry & Accessories – Traditional yet modern wearable art.
- Handmade Leather Goods – Sandals, wallets, and bags.
- Wood Carvings & African Masks – Cultural art and home décor.
- Magnets, Keyrings & Mini Danfo Models – Affordable tourist souvenirs.
- Customised Ankara Notebooks & Journals – Stylish, practical, and giftable.
- Jollof Rice & Suya Spice Packs – Iconic Nigerian flavors to take home.
- Snacks (Chin Chin, Kilishi, Plantain Chips) – Portable and addictive.
- Egusi, Ogbono & Crayfish – Staples for authentic Nigerian soups.
- Shea Butter & Natural Soaps – Skincare gifts loved worldwide.
35+ Unique Things To Buy From Nigeria | Gift/Souvenir Items
Whether you’re asking what to buy from Lagos Nigeria, looking for a list of gift items in Nigeria, or searching for things to bring back from Nigeria, this shortlist covers the most popular and meaningful picks.
Wondering what to buy from Nigeria for a loved one or looking for a list of things to bring back from Nigeria after your trip, you’re in the right place. Let’s dive in.
Ready to find the perfect gift?
Souvenirs/Gifts, Travel & Stationery
This selection is ideal for tourists and for bulk orders. This is our definitive list of souvenir items in Nigeria.
1. Magnets, Keyrings & Mini Danfo Models
Why: Small, inexpensive reminders of Nigeria.
Use case: Stocking stuffers, tourist souvenirs.
Who will appreciate it: Casual tourists, friends back home.
2. Ankara Notebooks & Journals
Why: Functional and beautifully covered with African prints.
Use case: Travel journals, corporate swag, event giveaways.
Who will appreciate it: Students, professionals, event planners.
3. Flag/Map-themed Items & Memorabilia
Why: Patriotic gifts for national events or diaspora homes.
Use case: Independence gifts, national teams’ fans.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerians abroad, sports fans.
4. Toiletry Bags, Passport Covers & Travel Accessories (Ankara)
Why: Practical travel items with unique style.
Use case: Travel, corporate travel packs, tourism gift packs.
Who will appreciate it: Frequent travelers, travel agencies.
5. Customised Souvenirs: Name-printed Ankara Bags, Personalized Journals
Why: Personalization increases sentimental value.
Use case: Wedding favors, corporate gifts, VIP souvenirs.
Who will appreciate it: Bridal parties, corporate clients.
6. Fridge Magnets, Keychains & Postcards with Lagos Scenes
Why: Light, cheap and easy to pack.
Use case: Postcards to send home, travel mementos.
Who will appreciate it: Tourists, collectors.
7. Stationery Gift Sets (Ankara pen holders, desk pads)
Why: Corporate yet cultural — ideal for business gifting.
Use case: Office welcome packs, corporate giveaways.
Who will appreciate it: Companies, HR departments.
Fashion, Textiles & Accessories
Explore the heart of Nigerian style with our famous fabrics and handcrafted accessories. Perfect for adding a vibrant, cultural touch to any wardrobe.
8. Ankara / African Print Clothing
Why: Vibrant, machine-washable, and endlessly customizable — from dresses to shirts and kids’ outfits.
Use case: Everyday wear, weddings, events, matching family sets.
Who will appreciate it: Fashion lovers, families, bridesmaids.
9. Adire (Tie-dye) & Batik Fabric
Why: Hand-dyed, traditional patterns with a rich Yoruba history.
Use case: Statement jackets, cushions, framed fabric art.
Who will appreciate it: People who value artisanal craft and cultural textiles.
10. Aso Oke / Aso-ebi Fabrics
Why: Luxury handwoven fabric for traditional ceremonies.
Use case: Weddings, chieftaincy events, special outfits.
Who will appreciate it: Couples planning traditional weddings, fashion designers.
13. Kente Cloth & Prints
Why: Distinctive woven patterns from West Africa — bold and symbolic.
Use case: Scarves, stoles, wall hangings.
Who will appreciate it: Cultural enthusiasts, academics, fashion-forward people.
14. African Print Backpacks & Bags
Why: Durable, colorful, and uniquely African.
Use case: Travel, school, everyday use.
Who will appreciate it: Students, travelers, gift shoppers.
15. Handmade Leather Items (Sandals, Wallets, Bags)
Why: Quality craftsmanship with local leather.
Use case: Everyday carry, corporate gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Professionals, gift-givers, sustainable shoppers.
16. Beaded Jewelry & Accessories
Why: Traditional beads modernized into necklaces, bracelets, earrings.
Use case: Party looks, ethnic wear, souvenir gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Jewelry lovers, collectors.
17. Ankara Neck Ties, Bow Ties & Cufflinks
Why: Adds Nigerian flair to formal wear.
Use case: Weddings, corporate events, themed parties.
Who will appreciate it: Grooms, groomsmen, corporate buyers.
Art, Decor & Crafts
Bring the soul of Nigerian artistry into your home. Each handcrafted piece, from intricate carvings to unique decor, tells a story of our rich heritage.
18. Wood Carvings & Sculptures
Why: Hand-carved pieces made from local timber — each one unique.
Use case: Home focal pieces, office art.
Who will appreciate it: Art collectors, home decorators.
19. African Masks & Wall Art
Why: Deep cultural symbolism and dramatic aesthetics.
Use case: Living room or study wall displays.
Who will appreciate it: Interior designers, culture lovers.
20. Table Linens: Runners, Cloths & Placemats (African Print)
Why: Instantly refreshes dining spaces with color and texture.
Use case: Dinner parties, restaurants, gift sets.
Who will appreciate it: Hosts, restaurateurs.
21. Throw/Neck Pillows (Ankara Covers)
Why: Small, affordable, big style impact.
Use case: Sofas, travel, guest rooms, staging homes for sale.
Who will appreciate it: Homeowners, realtors.
22. Traditional Musical Instruments (Talking Drum, Shekere)
Why: Functional instruments that are also decorative.
Use case: Music lessons, performance, decor.
Who will appreciate it: Musicians, educators, collectors.
23. Raffia & Woven Baskets
Why: Eco-friendly, handwoven storage and decor.
Use case: Laundry baskets, planters, picnic sets.
Who will appreciate it: Eco-conscious shoppers, home organizers.
Food, Spices & Ingredients
Take the unforgettable flavors of Nigeria home with you. This selection features everything from famous street food spices to essential pantry staples for an authentic taste.
24. Shea Butter & Natural Body Oils
Why: Rich, multipurpose natural moisturizer made from shea nuts.
Use case: Skincare routines, gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Natural beauty shoppers, dry-skin sufferers.
25. Jollof Rice (Ready-to-Eat Packs)
Why: Nigeria’s most famous dish — flavorful, convenient, and unforgettable.
Use case: Ready meals, souvenirs for foodies.
Who will appreciate it: Tourists, Nigerians abroad, food lovers.
26. Kilishi, Suya (Packaged Meat Skewers)
Why: Street-food favorite, smoky and spicy.
Use case: Quick meals, BBQ lovers.
Who will appreciate it: Adventurous eaters, snackers.
27. Pepper Soup Mix & Ready Meals
Why: Spicy broth with cultural significance, often eaten for comfort.
Use case: Home cooking, cold-weather meals.
Who will appreciate it: Families, tourists seeking authentic taste.
28. Snacks: Chin Chin, Kilishi & Plantain Chips
Why: Portable, memorable treats that travel well.
Use case: In-flight snacks, hostess gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Tourists, snacking friends.
29. Rice (General Varieties) & Ofada Rice
Why: Staple Nigerian carb, with Ofada rice known for its unique aroma.
Use case: Family meals, cultural dinners.
Who will appreciate it: Home cooks, expats.
30. Garri & Yam Flour (Gari, Fufu flour)
Why: Staples of Nigerian kitchens — shareable and long-lasting.
Use case: Cooking traditional meals away from home.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerians abroad, adventurous cooks.
31. Beans (Brown Beans, Honey Beans)
Why: Nutritious, versatile, and central to Nigerian cuisine.
Use case: Moi-moi, akara, stews.
Who will appreciate it: Home cooks, healthy eaters.
32. Plantain (Fresh or Packaged)
Why: Popular fried, baked, or dried into chips.
Use case: Meals, snacks, event catering.
Who will appreciate it: Food lovers, families.
33. Palm Oil (Properly Packaged)
Why: A defining taste of Nigerian soups and stews.
Use case: Egusi, banga, vegetable soups.
Who will appreciate it: Home cooks, diaspora Nigerians.
34. Egusi (Melon Seeds)
Why: Nutty, protein-rich seeds used for one of Nigeria’s most iconic soups.
Use case: Egusi soup, stews.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerians abroad, adventurous cooks.
35. Ogbono (Wild Mango Seeds)
Why: Used to make the famous draw soup with unique texture.
Use case: Traditional soups.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerians abroad, African food lovers.
36. Banga Spice & Seasoning Packs
Why: Essential for Niger Delta’s famous palm nut soup.
Use case: Banga soup, cultural dishes.
Who will appreciate it: Food lovers, diaspora cooks.
37. Suya Spice & Pepper Mixes
Why: Instant Nigerian street-food flavor at home.
Use case: BBQs, marinades, souvenir spice jars.
Who will appreciate it: Grill lovers, spice heads.
38. Pepper Sauce & General Seasonings
Why: Adds Nigerian spice and kick to any meal.
Use case: Everyday cooking, travel-size food gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Foodies, spice lovers.
39. Crayfish (Ground and Whole)
Why: Adds umami depth to stews and soups.
Use case: Cooking base ingredient.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerian home cooks, chefs.
40. Dried Fish & Stockfish
Why: Long-lasting flavor enhancers with strong Nigerian identity.
Use case: Soups, stews.
Who will appreciate it: Nigerians abroad, traditional cooks.
41. Fresh Produce (Onions, Tomatoes, Pepper, Vegetables)
Why: Everyday staples, bursting with local flavor.
Use case: Cooking authentic Nigerian meals.
Who will appreciate it: Local buyers, visiting tourists wanting freshness.
42. Kola Nuts (Cultural Item)
Why: Symbol of hospitality, tradition, and respect in the Igbo Nigerian culture.
Use case: Ceremonial gifts, cultural souvenirs.
Who will appreciate it: Elders, cultural enthusiasts, tourists.
Beauty & Personal Care
Discover the ancient beauty secrets of West Africa. Made with natural, locally-sourced ingredients like pure shea butter, these products are perfect for nourishing your skin and hair.
43. Local Haircare Products & Natural Soaps
Why: Formulated for textured hair and natural skin.
Use case: Travel kits, starter beauty gift sets.
Who will appreciate it: Natural hair community, eco-conscious buyers.
44. Fragrances & Local Perfume Blends
Why: Unique scent profiles using local botanicals and oils.
Use case: Personal use, special-occasion gifts.
Who will appreciate it: Fragrance collectors, gift recipients.
Looking for what are 20 things made in Nigeria? This list has you covered and more!
Your Lagos Gift-Hunting Guide: What to buy from Lagos Nigeria
Lagos is a bustling hub of commerce and creativity. While you can brave the vibrant chaos of markets like Balogun or Lekki Arts and Crafts Market, it can be time-consuming.
For a curated and stress-free experience, finding the perfect gift items in Nigeria is easiest right here with us. We source/produce the best handcrafted and authentic gift items, so you can shop with confidence.
Chat With UsWhat to buy in Nigeria online? Your One-Stop African Store
Why navigate traffic when you can have the best of Nigeria delivered to your doorstep? We have made it our mission to curate a fantastic gift items list and make it accessible to you, wherever you are. From custom corporate gifts to a single sentimental item, shopping online is the most convenient way to explore the vast array of things you can only buy in Nigeria.
We hope this list has inspired you! The beauty of Nigerian gifts lies in their stories, craftsmanship, and the vibrant culture they represent. Each item is a piece of our identity, ready to be shared with the world.
Don’t wait! Explore our collections today and find the perfect African-inspired gift.
FAQ — Answering Your Questions
What are the best Nigerian products I can buy online?
If you’re shopping remotely, prioritize well-packaged food & spice sets, Ankara clothing, shea butter, and handmade leather goods — these travel and ship well. Buying from verified Lagos sellers ensures authenticity.
What are some examples of authentic ‘Made in Nigeria’ products?
Many items on this list are locally made: Ankara, Adire, Aso Oke, beaded jewelry, leather sandals, shea butter, Ofada rice, suya spice, wood carvings, raffia baskets, local soaps, Kilishi, chin chin, talking drums, and more. (See the categories above for 30+ examples.)
Are there any unique items I can only find in Nigeria?
Handmade Adire, locally-woven Aso Oke, specific regional street foods and spices (fresh suya blends, some regional condiments), and culturally-specific beadwork are hard to find outside West Africa.
I’m a tourist visiting ‘9ja’. What are the best souvenirs to take home?
When visiting 9ja, pick up compact keepsakes (magnets, keyrings), spices, an Ankara piece, or a small wood carving. These represent Nigeria well and fit in a suitcase.
Where can I find a good list of Nigerian gift ideas?
This entire post is your gift items list — sorted and explained so you can choose based on recipient, budget and shipping needs.
What are the most famous or popular things to buy in Nigeria?
Famous items include Ankara prints, Adire, Aso Oke, shea butter, Ofada rice, suya spice and beaded jewelry — items with strong cultural storylines make the best gifts.
What are the best things to bring back home from a trip to Nigeria?
Bring back non-perishable foods, textiles, small art pieces, and beauty products. Avoid large fragile items unless boxed professionally.
I’ll be shopping in Lagos. Is there anything special I should look for there?
From Lagos, you’ll find the best selection of Ankara fashions, modern African designer labels, curated art prints, and premium shea and skincare products.
