Nigeria has emerged as the fastest-growing country in global pizza consumption.

This was stated in a report released by Glovo Nigeria, a multi-category app, on Friday in Lagos.

Lamide Akinola, Glovo Nigeria general manager, said Nigeria in 2023 recorded a 1,222 per cent increase in pizza orders delivered via Glovo.

World Pizza Day is celebrated annually on February 9.

Ms Akinola said the increase in pizza consumption catapulted Nigeria to the fastest-growing country globally for pizza consumption, followed by Tunisia and Armenia with 262 per cent and 164 per cent, respectively.

She said in 2023, chicken-based pizzas were heavily consumed, representing 44 per cent of all deliveries.

Ms Akinola added that notable shifts in consumer preferences were seen in specific pizza recipes, with pizza containing beef and sausages having a remarkable 14,471 per cent and 4,141 per cent surge, respectively.

“Examining size preferences among Nigerians, ‘large’ pizzas were favourites, accounting for 45 per cent of total orders, while ‘regular’ or ‘medium’ and ‘small’ sizes closely followed with 28 per cent and 27 per cent, respectively.

“In terms of cities, while Lagos dominated pizza orders with a 57 per cent share, the record for the most expensive pizza order, totalling N136,240, was recorded in Abuja, Nigeria.

“We’ve remained steadfast in our commitment to being the preferred choice for Nigerians.

“The wide variety of options available for this product, coupled with a 195 per cent increase in pizza partners in 2023, underscores our support for small and medium enterprises,” she said.

Glovo is a pioneering multi-category app connecting users with businesses and couriers, offering on-demand services from local restaurants, pharmacies, grocers, beauty stores and supermarkets, and high-street retail stores.

(NAN)