A graduate of the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA), Sheriff Oluyinka Omoleke, has expanded his food business with the launch of a new 24-hour Chikini Monie outlet in Akure, Ondo State, as part of efforts to deepen market penetration and meet growing demand for flexible dining services.
The new outlet, located at Agape Junction, Akure, is positioned to serve students, residents, travellers, transporters, and night-time consumers, tapping into the city’s expanding urban economy.
Speaking at the unveiling, Omoleke, a 2013 graduate of Forestry and Wood Technology of FUTA, said the business model was driven by demand-led expansion and job creation.
He said his entrepreneurial journey began while he was an undergraduate, starting with a small printing business before diversifying into laundry services and later into the fast-food sector.
The Chief Executive Officer of Chikini Monie and Abula Backyard explained that the food business formally commenced operations in October 2024, with its first outlet located at FUTA South Gate.
According to him, the expansion strategy also includes Abula Backyard, a sister brand focused on indigenous African cuisine, introduced to broaden the company’s product offerings and strengthen brand diversification.
“I started my business when I was a 400-level student in FUTA, and I have diversified from the printing business into a laundry service.
When I finished my NYSC service year in Offa, I diversified into laundry, and from there, I was able to diversify into an eatery, which is the fast food business, which was on the 28th of October, 2024.
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“Firstly, we opened at FUTA South gate, but today we are commissioning Chikini Money, which is a branch after that, and I have also created another brand, which is Abula Backyard, the one that deals with the African cuisine,” he said.
Omoleke disclosed that the business, which started with an initial capital of N7,000, has so far generated over 1,000 direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain.
“I have always loved to be an entrepreneur. So, being an entrepreneur has always been in my blood, and I have a passion for it. I don’t really see whether being Nigerian is safe or not. I want to do business, and I believe I’m going to thrive in the industry.
“One of our most measurable impact indicators is job creation. To date, Chikini Monie has generated over one thousand direct and indirect employment opportunities across its value chain. Beyond statistics, these numbers translate to livelihoods sustained, families supported, and young people empowered with dignity and purpose.
“In 2025, we further expanded our portfolio with the introduction of Abula Backyard Restaurant, reaffirming our commitment to indigenous cuisine, cultural identity, and strategic brand diversification,” he said.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, Chief Olu Ajanaku, described the venture as a strong example of youth-driven enterprise and resilience, urging policymakers to create a more enabling environment for small businesses.
The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Signage and Advertisement, Mr. Yomi Oyekan also encouraged youths to pursue entrepreneurship with consistency and courage.
The Deji of Akure Kingdom, Oba (Dr) Aladetoyinbo Ogunlade Aladelusi, who commissioned the outlet, commended the entrepreneur for contributing to local economic growth and job creation.








