Nigerian Chapman
By far Nigerias most popular drink, available with spice or as a mocktail
Nigerian Chapman
Ingredients (1 portion)
- 6 oz Fanta Orange
- 6 oz Sprite
- 1/4 Orange
- 1/4 Lemon
- 1/4 cup Grenadine Syrupl
- A few dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters
Category
Drinks, Classics
Technique:
Building
Glass:
Highball
Step by Step Nigerian Chapman Instructions
Step 1
Pour half a cup of Grenadine Syrup on the ice cubes in your glass.
Step 2
Add the Angostura Bitters. You can add some gin (4-12cl) if you want a stronger drink.
Step 3
Squeeze half an orange and half a lemon into the glass.
Step 4
Pour both the Sprite and the Fanta into your glass.
Step 5
Garnish with cucumber, orange and/or lemons.
The Story Behind the Drink
The Nigerian Chapman is everywhere in Nigeria – mainly in its non-alcoholic form. The Chapman is a refreshingly festive drink that is well suited for parties (weddings almost always feature the Chapman), cocktail occasions and dinners. Most restaurant menus also include it.
Sam Alamutu is credited as the creator of the Chapman. According to his daughter Sola, Sam Alamutu created the drink specifically for his wife, who would normally turn down alcoholic drinks in favour of the likes of Sprite and Fanta.
Sam Alamutu was a widely known hotelier who worked in various capacities at Nigeria Hotels Limited and ended his career as the managing director. The first time the Nigerian Chapman was served to the wider public was at the Ikoyi Hotel, and it quickly became popular among (primarily) British guests.
