August 18, 2025 — A recent encounter involving a Nigerian customer at an Apple Store in London has reignited debate over the absence of official Apple retail outlets in Nigeria and the growing concerns about product authenticity in the country.
The incident drew attention to the fact that Nigerians currently rely on third-party retailers and resellers for Apple devices, as the tech giant has yet to establish a certified retail store locally. Industry observers say this gap leaves customers vulnerable to counterfeit gadgets, refurbished iPhones sold as new, and restricted access to warranty and after-sales support.
Despite Nigeria’s position as one of Africa’s largest smartphone markets, Apple has remained absent, fueling a thriving gray market where consumers often pay premium prices without assurance of authenticity. Analysts suggest that factors such as infrastructure limitations, regulatory hurdles, and import policies may have deterred Apple from making a direct entry into the Nigerian market.
Many Nigerians seeking guaranteed authenticity and warranty coverage are forced to travel to global hubs such as London, Dubai, or Johannesburg to purchase Apple devices. The London case has therefore sparked renewed public calls for Apple to establish an official presence in Nigeria, a move many believe would protect consumers and boost confidence in the country’s tech ecosystem.