Nigeria Has Untapped Wine Grape and Production Potential — Says Industry Expert, Dr. Victor Ikem

Wine educator and specialist Dr. Victor Ikem, founder of the LWS Wine Academy (Lagos Wine School), has stated that Nigeria has the potential to grow wine grapes and produce its own wines, just as South Africa and other emerging African markets, if the right investments and policy reforms are made.

Dr. Ikem made this assertion during an enlightening interview on Smooth FM’s Business Hub programme in Lagos, where he spoke extensively about Nigeria’s position in the global wine landscape, the potential for local wine production, and the growing culture of wine appreciation among Nigerians.

Addressing whether Nigeria is a wholly import-dependent wine-consuming nation, Dr. Ikem explained that while the country currently imports nearly all its alcoholic wines, some regions possess the right climatic and soil conditions particularly in the North Central and NorthWest for successful wine grape cultivation.

“Based on recent findings, some regions in Nigeria have the potential to produce wine grapes,” he said. “Wine production involves a lot of investment and time. At the moment, almost all the wines consumed in Nigeria are imported, but we have the opportunity and resources to grow our own grapes. We have seemingly the right environment to do that on a large scale.”

He further emphasized that while South Africa remains Africa’s leading wine-producing country, others across the continent are exploring winemaking. Nigeria, however, still relies heavily on imports from France, Italy, Spain, South Africa, Germany, and the United States.

According to Dr. Ikem, regions such as Kaduna, Plateau, and Benue States have up to an 85% chance of successfully cultivating wine grapes due to favorable soil and climate conditions. Realizing this potential, he said, will require significant investment in infrastructure, research, and technical expertise.

“It’s not just about planting grapes; we need to identify the right varietals that can thrive in our climate, likely red grape varieties such as Zinfandel, Shiraz, and Merlot,” Dr. Ikem noted. “Nigeria has the soil and temperature to support grape cultivation, but we need research and collaboration with globally acclaimed winemakers who can share their technical knowledge and experience.”

He added that local wine production could contribute significantly to Nigeria’s economy through job creation and value chain development, calling on visionary investors and the government to support the industry with policy reforms and infrastructure.

“The wine business is capital-intensive,” he said, “but Nigeria’s thriving consumer market makes it a profitable venture if properly structured.”

Dr. Ikem also agreed with estimates placing Nigeria’s wine market value between $400 million and $420 million annually, noting that sweet wines dominate consumer preference.

“Young Nigerians generally have a sweet palate,” he said. “Over 70% of respondents in a recent survey said they prefer sweet wines with higher alcohol content. This reflects our culture and the youthful demographic that’s transitioning from beer to wine. Sweet wines are easy to drink, pair well with local dishes, and fit our lifestyle of convenience and celebration.”

While the sweet wine market continues to grow, he explained that dry and sour wines have their own loyal consumer base, especially among mature drinkers.

“Every style of wine appeals to a specific market segment,” he explained. “Through LWS Wine Academy, we educate consumers to explore and appreciate these varieties.”

Dr. Ikem also delved into wine tasting fundamentals, explaining that sweetness in wine is influenced by residual sugar, acidity, freshness, and tannins. He shared practical insights on wine etiquette, such as the importance of using appropriate wine glasses and staying hydrated to prevent hangovers.

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“Wine glasses are not just for aesthetics,” he said. “Each glass is designed to enhance the aroma and flavor of specific wine styles. For instance, a flute glass is for sparkling wines, while red wine glasses with large bowls allow swirling, releasing aroma and showcasing legs, viscosity, and alcohol content.”

Speaking on wine tourism, Dr. Ikem described it as a key driver of wine education and appreciation.

“The more you experience wine, the more your knowledge grows,” he explained. “Wine tasting engages all the senses such as sight, smell, and taste and it’s through experience that wine lovers develop their palate and appreciation.”

About LWS Wine Academy

LWS Wine Academy is Nigeria’s first dedicated wine education institution, founded to promote wine culture, education, and entrepreneurship. The academy offers structured programs that train students to become certified sommeliers, wine entrepreneurs, and professional wine educators.

Through hands-on training, sensory experiences, and global-standard instruction, LWS Wine Academy equips participants with the skills to thrive in the growing Nigerian and African wine markets. The academy also organizes wine tasting sessions, wine tourism experiences, and industry workshops, fostering a new generation of knowledgeable wine enthusiasts and business leaders.

“At LWS Wine Academy, our goal is to develop Nigeria’s wine industry through education, exposure, and experience,” Dr. Ikem said. “We want to create an ecosystem where Nigerians don’t just consume wine—they understand it, appreciate it, and build sustainable businesses around it.”

For those interested in wine tourism, professional wine education, or sommelier certification, LWS Wine Academy provides access to global-standard resources and mentorship.

Instagram: @lwswineacademy
Website: www.lwswineacademy.com