Report Overview

Growing health awareness among the lactose intolerant population driven by vegan trends, fitness culture, ethical eating, rapid urbanization, innovations, rising income, and on increasing focus on convenience and sustainability are expected to boost the growth of Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market during the forecast period between 2025 and 2031.

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market – Industry Trends & Forecast, 2031

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market size was estimated at USD 82.23 million in 2024. During the forecast period from 2025 to 2031, Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market size is projected to grow at a CAGR of 25.07%, reaching a value of USD 393.7 million by 2031. The growth of Nigeria plant-based proteins market is propelled by rising health consciousness, lactose intolerance prevalence, and ethical dietary shifts. Urbanization and increasing disposable income support demand for convenient, nutritious alternatives. Millennials favor functional foods with minimal pharmaceutical intervention. Fitness culture and vegan trends fuel sports nutrition growth. Local innovation expands options, such as cassava leaf protein and soy-based products. Strategic investments and partnerships, like Veggie Victory’s expansion, further boost market momentum amid growing awareness of sustainability and wellness.

Plant-based Proteins – Overview

Plant-based proteins are derived from legumes, grains, seeds, and vegetables, offering a sustainable alternative to animal proteins. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients, though some may lack complete amino acid profiles. Advances in food technology have improved their digestibility and functionality. Popular in vegan and health-conscious diets, they support heart health, weight management, and environmental goals. Their versatility spans from whole foods to supplements, making them a key player in modern nutrition.

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market 

Growth Drivers

Rising Health Consciousness and Lactose Intolerance

Growing awareness of nutrition and wellness is driving Nigerian consumers toward plant-based proteins. With a high prevalence of lactose intolerance, especially among West African populations, dairy alternatives are gaining traction. Health-conscious individuals increasingly seek low-cholesterol, fiber-rich options that support heart health and digestion. This shift is further fueled by urbanization, changing dietary habits, and the desire for sustainable, ethical food choices—making plant-based proteins a preferred solution for modern nutritional needs. These growing trends are boosting the expansion of Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market.

Challenges

Low Consumer Awareness and Cultural Preferences

Despite growing global interest in plant-based nutrition, the growth of Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market faces resistance due to limited consumer awareness and strong cultural ties to traditional animal-based diets. Many consumers are unfamiliar with the health benefits of plant proteins or perceive them as less satisfying. Additionally, entrenched culinary habits and taste preferences hinder adoption. Without targeted education and culturally adapted products, plant-based alternatives struggle to gain mainstream acceptance, slowing market growth and innovation potential.

Impact of Escalating Geopolitical Tensions on Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market 

Escalating geopolitical tensions disrupt global supply chains, affecting Nigeria’s access to key plant-based protein inputs like soy and wheat. Sanctions, trade restrictions, and regional instability, especially in West Africa and the Middle East, raise transportation costs and delay imports. These tensions also create uncertainties in foreign direct investments and regulatory frameworks, slowing innovation and market expansion. Nigeria’s reliance on imported raw materials makes the sector vulnerable, while local production struggles to scale. Strategic diversification and regional cooperation are vital to mitigate these risks for players in Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market.

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market 

Segmental Coverage

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market – By Source

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market by source is divided into Pea, Rapeseed, Soy, Hempseed, and other segments. Soy protein segment emerges as the largest in Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market. Its dominance is driven by affordability, high protein content, and versatility across food, beverage, and animal feed applications. Soy’s widespread use by key players like Wilmar and Veggie Victory further boosts its market share. Additionally, soy’s established supply chain and consumer familiarity make it a preferred choice over emerging sources like pea or hemp, solidifying its lead in both volume and value.

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market – By Form

On the basis of form, Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market is divided into Protein Concentrates, Protein Isolates, and Protein Hydrolysates segments. Protein isolates segment stands out as the largest form in Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market. Their popularity stems from high protein purity, excellent digestibility, and broad application in sports nutrition, beverages, and dietary supplements. Isolates are favored for their clean-label appeal and functional versatility, especially in vegan and lactose-free products. With rising health awareness and demand for fortified foods, isolates continue to lead in both volume and value, outperforming concentrates and hydrolysates in consumer and industrial adoption.

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market – By Application

Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market by application is divided into Dietary Supplements, Food & Beverages, Pharmaceuticals, and Animal Feed segments. The food & beverages segment represents the largest application in Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market. This dominance is fueled by rising health consciousness, lactose intolerance prevalence, and the shift toward vegan and flexitarian diets. Consumers increasingly seek plant-based alternatives in snacks, drinks, and meat substitutes, driving demand. Local brands like Veggie Victory and Nuli are expanding offerings, while supermarkets and urbanization boost accessibility. With broad appeal across age groups and lifestyles, food and beverages lead in both market volume and growth potential.

Competitive Landscape

Major companies operating in Nigeria Plant-based Proteins Market include Cargill Incorporated, Archer Daniels Midland Company (ADM), Kerry Group plc, DuPont, Glanbia PLC, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited, Darling Ingredients Inc., Royal FrieslandCampina, Veggie Victory, Nuli, and Wilmar International. To further enhance their market share, these companies employ various strategies, including mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, joint ventures, license agreements, and new product launches.

Scope of the Report

By Source

• Pea

• Rapeseed

• Soy

• Hempseed

• Others

By Form

• Protein Concentrates

• Protein Isolates

• Protein Hydrolysates

By Application

• Dietary Supplements

• Food and Beverages

• Pharmaceuticals

• Animal Feed