Alake Olofada Tells City People
In the heart of Osogbo, where tradition meets taste, a culinary queen has emerged. Known for her rich cultural flair and mouth-watering delicacies, Yetunde Awonuga also known as Alake Olofada has carved a niche for herself in the food and event catering space. From a humble beginning with just N10,000 to serving in major cities across Nigeria, her story is a testament to grit, grace, and God’s goodness.
In an exclusive interview with City People Reporter, JAMIU ABUBAKAR, the wave making food vendor shares her journey, the uniqueness of her brand, and words of encouragement to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Can you tell us a bit about your business?
My name is Alake Olofada. I’m into the restaurant and catering business. I sell food, drinks, bushmeat—like Guinea fowl and other varieties. Basically, I bring traditional vibes to everything we serve.
Where is your business located?
We are currently based in Osogbo.
How long have you been in the business?
It’s been about six years now.
Six years and counting—how did it all begin?
Honestly, it started like a joke. My husband casually suggested, “Alake, why don’t you start selling Ofada?” I thought, Why not? I already knew how to cook it well. And that was it—we started small and built from there.
Your brand has grown impressively. What has kept you going?
It’s been God—Almighty Allah—His grace, favour, and peace. And of course, the people around me, our customers, their love and support. I just give all glory to God.
What inspired you to go into the food business?
I genuinely love cooking, I love events, I love meeting people. Food makes people happy, and I enjoy being part of that. I’m passionate about what I do, and that keeps me going.
Do you operate only from your base in Osogbo, or do you offer services elsewhere?
Oh, I move around a lot. Beyond our location, we cater for events, and we are also palm wine vendors. For example, we’re here today to serve palm wine at an event.
How do you manage all your lines of businesses?
I’ve built a good team. I have managers, PR personnel, and entrustees who help handle various aspects of the business. Delegating helps a lot.
Can you mention other states where you’ve rendered your services?
Yes, I’ve been to Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Oyo, Ogbomoso, Ekiti, and several others. We go wherever the job takes us.
What event would you say gave you your biggest break?
That would be an event in Ikirun. We were still new then, and I came to serve palm wine at a function. People loved it! They hadn’t seen anything like it before—the taste, the presentation. That moment really opened doors for us.
What makes your services stand out from others?
We’re all about authentic culture. When you visit our spot or see us at events, you’ll feel like you’re in the 1960s or 1940s. We serve food in local pots (Ikoko), use calabashes and keregbe for palm wine. We create village vibes that people instantly connect with and can’t get enough of.
How has social media helped your business?
Social media, especially TikTok, has been a major boost. I have a unique way of promoting my business there, and my videos often trend. TikTok brought me limelight—it helped people discover me not just in Nigeria, but all over the world.
Who is Alake Olofada?
Alake Olofada is Yetunde Awonuga. I am proudly an Ijebu lady, married to Mr. Owolabi Akinola. I grew up in Lagos and studied at Iree Polytechnic in Osun. I chose to stay and build my business here in Osun.
How has being Ijebu influenced your business drive?
It’s in our blood—Ijebu people are naturally business-minded. We love business, we love money, and we’re hardworking. That entrepreneurial spirit is part of who I am, and it fuels my hustle.
What’s your advice to young women trying to find their path?
Darling, I know it’s not easy, but you have to start from somewhere. I began with just N10,000, using my school fees to launch this dream. It was tough, but look at me now. Have faith, stay consistent, and leave everything in God’s hands. You will surely get there.