At the recent Glovo Future of Commerce Summit, two of Nigeria’s most prominent QSR leaders Kofi Abunu, CEO of Chicken Republic, and Rushdi Ibrahim, CEO of Burger King Nigeria, took the stage to discuss how their brands are navigating one of the world’s most challenging but high-potential food service markets. Moderated by Reni Onafeko, Head of Growth at Glovo Nigeria, the conversation unpacked key lessons in scale, innovation, and staying relevant in a volatile economy.

Nigeria’s quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry has undergone a seismic shift over the last decade. Chicken Republic has cemented its status as the leading homegrown QSR brand, while Burger King, a global heavyweight, is charting an aggressive expansion path after just over three years in the market. The session, titled “Navigating Growth and Success in Nigeria’s Food Service Market,” explored what it takes to succeed in this landscape shaped by inflation, infrastructure gaps, and evolving consumer behavior.

Kofi Abunu of Chicken Republic, Nigeria’s leading QSR chain, emphasized how local brands have evolved from serving indulgent treats to providing essential, everyday convenience. “The QSR market has changed drastically,” Kofi said. “Nigerian customers now prioritize quality, speed, and accessibility. Demand never stops, even in crises.”