Different Types of Mangoes

You’ll Find In Nigeria

So today, I’m wearing my teacher hat 🎓 — because, guys, I recently discovered that there are over 15 different types of mangoes in Nigeria, and I was like wait, what?! I had to come share. Shoutout to Farrah’s Cuisine and The Grocery Lady for sparking this curiosity.

Here’s a little breakdown of the mango madness. From the North to the Southwest, each region has its own fruity superstar — and sometimes, the names will just have you wheezing. Let’s get into it!

Yes, It’s Not All Sherri and Opioro

1. Julie Mango

Origin: Commonly found in the North, but loved all over.
Also Known As: “The sweet one.”

Description:
If there’s a queen of mangoes, it’s Julie. This mango is green with a slightly irregular head, and apparently the sweetest of them all. Like, no fiber stress, no mess – just pure juicy goodness. The size makes it easy to finish in one go, and honestly, you’ll probably be looking for another once you’re done. If you see Julie during mango season, grab it and thank me later.

2. Dawshia Mango

Origin: Northern Nigeria.

Description:
This one’s a little less popular than Julie, but it holds its own. Dawshia is slightly bigger, with firmer skin and just a bit more tang. It’s one of those mangoes that might surprise you — doesn’t always look flashy, but the flavor is giving. A good alternative if Julie has sold out at your local fruit spot.

3. German Mango (Opioro)

Origin: Mostly found in the South.

Also Known As: Opioro mango.

Description:
You know that mango we sometimes mistake as Sherri? That’s German mango. Small, green, slightly sour (especially when unripe), and honestly just nostalgic. It’s that mango you buy in bulk, not because you need that many but because they go down too easy. If you grew up in Nigeria, you’ve had this one at least 10 times and you probably didn’t even know its name.

4. Sherry Mango

Origin: Mostly seen across the South and Middle Belt.

Description:
So, sherry mango looks pretty basic at first glance — smooth green skin, medium size — but when you bite in? Soft, juicy, and a whole vibe. It’s less fibrous than some of the other mangoes, which means less picking mango strands out of your teeth later. She’s low-key but gets the job done.

5. Palaba Mango

Origin: Southern Nigeria.

Description:
Palaba mango is one of those “you know it when you see it” fruits. It’s bright, colorful, and slightly taller than the average mango. It’s usually sweet but can surprise you with a sour note if you catch it too early. Looks like Paparanda from afar — I literally had both in my hand and they looked the same — but they are not the same o!

6. Paparanda Mango

Origin: Southwest Nigeria.

Description:
Paparanda mango has that classic mango look but is slightly rounder and chubbier than Palaba. It’s got a firm bite and just the right balance of sweet and tangy. People in the southwest swear by it. And if you’re confused like I was, yes — it’s different from Palaba even though they look like siblings.

7. John Peter Mango

Origin: Northern Nigeria.

Description:
Let me just say it now — the origin of  these Mango names is a mystery to me, but this one is called John Peter. Not John, not Peter — John Peter 😂. This mango is big, like really big, and apparently it’s a northern classic. Juicy, hearty, and definitely for when you’re hungry-hungry.

Watch the Instagram Reel Here and on TikTok Here

8. Peter Mango

Origin: Northern Nigeria.

Description:
If there’s a John Peter, there has to be just Peter, right? Yup. And it’s slightly smaller than John Peter, but still hefty. Sweet, satisfying, and easy to peel. It’s giving little brother energy but in a good way.

9. Mummy Mango

Origin: Northern Nigeria.

Description:
Let’s just say this mango is not for small handbags. It is huge. Honestly, I feel like if it drops from a tree, that’s a concussion waiting to happen 😭. I don’t even know if the name “mummy” means it’s for mums or that it’s the mummy of all mangoes, but it is definitely living up to its size. Not overly sweet, but when it’s cold? Vibes.

Quick Mango Tip Before You Go

If your mango isn’t ripe yet, leave it on the kitchen counter. Don’t put it in the fridge unless you want to delay your enjoyment. Let nature do its thing — your mango will thank you.

So, Which One’s Your Favorite?

I’ve tasted a few and I’m still learning the names. The variety alone is just so fascinating — different regions, different textures, different vibes.

Let me know in the comments — do you have a different name for any of these? Or did I miss your fave? I’m collecting mango knowledge now like it’s Pokémon.

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