Founded in 2024, Smate & Smate UK Ltd was created with one clear vision: to bring the authentic flavours of Nigeria to the United Kingdom. Our founders, Nigerians who deeply missed the taste of home, saw the growing demand for genuine African staples among the UK’s Nigerian community and a wider audience of food lovers.
What began as the launch of a small, dedicated import business has now become the trusted gateway for Obiji Foods in the UK. Through this exclusive partnership, we source only the finest ingredients — palm oil, garri, egusi, crayfish, peppersoup spice — delivered directly from the heart of Nigerian farms and communities.
Today, we are proud to stand at the beginning of a bold journey: building a distribution network that honours our roots, connects communities, and keeps Nigerian food heritage alive with authenticity, quality, and trust.
Explore the rich history and cultural significance of Nigerian cuisine and its key ingredients.
Nigerian cuisine developed around indigenous ingredients like yams, cassava, palm oil, and local spices. Each ethnic group created unique dishes using available resources, laying the foundation for modern Nigerian cooking.
Introduction of new ingredients like rice, wheat, and European spices. Nigerian cooks adapted traditional recipes while maintaining authentic flavors, creating fusion dishes that are still popular today.
Post-1960 independence saw a revival of traditional cooking methods and ingredients. Nigerian cuisine became a source of national pride, with dishes like jollof rice becoming symbols of cultural identity.
Nigerian cuisine gains international recognition with restaurants opening worldwide. The demand for authentic ingredients grows, leading to the establishment of suppliers like Smate & Smate UK Ltd.
Our collaboration with Obiji Foods in Nigeria lies at the heart of our promise of authenticity. For over twenty years, Obiji has been a respected name in Nigerian food processing, recognised for its consistency, ethical sourcing, and traditional craftsmanship.
Through this partnership, we are able to bring the same trusted quality to the UK — palm oil pressed in family-run mills, egusi ground using age-old techniques, crayfish and peppersoup spices carefully selected for purity and flavour. Every product we distribute reflects Nigeria’s culinary heritage and the pride of the communities that produce it.
This direct relationship gives us full visibility and control — from farm to warehouse to table — ensuring that our customers in the UK receive products that are authentic, traceable, and responsibly sourced.
We maintain the highest standards of food safety and quality control throughout our supply chain.
All products meet HACCP standards, ensuring the highest levels of food safety, hygiene, and quality control.
Every product meets international food regulations and UK import requirements for safety and excellence.
Full traceability from farm to table, ensuring transparency, trust, and consistent product quality.
We support fair trade and empower Nigerian farming communities through responsible sourcing partnerships.
The people who make Smate & Smate UK Ltd run — connecting partners, products, and communities with every delivery.
Joint Managing Director
Leads daily operations with warmth and vision, ensuring reliable service and authentic African food experiences.
Business Sales Executive
Drives sales growth, builds distributor relations, and champions creative campaigns for the Obiji Foods brand.
Warehouse Operations & Logistics
Manages stock, shipments, and deliveries, keeping our supply chain efficient and every order perfectly handled.
Join us in celebrating the rich heritage and vibrant flavors of Nigerian food culture.