It was a colourful blend of culture, celebration, and commendation as the grand opening of the new Ile Iyan outlet was held on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at Admiralty Way, Lekki. The event drew dignitaries from across Lagos and beyond, including key government officials, industry stakeholders and culture enthusiasts, all gathered to celebrate the entrepreneurial journey of the young and dynamic CEO of Ile Iyan Chef Sanni.
The ceremony officially began with the cutting of the ribbon by the proud parents of the CEO, who jointly declared the edifice open amid cheers and applause. In an emotionally charged moment, the mother of the CEO expressed her overwhelming joy, stating how proud she was to witness her son rise from humble beginnings to become a successful business owner. “I never imagined this day would come so soon. He defied all odds and has made us proud,” she said.
In the spirit of unity and cultural pride, the event showcased Nigeria’s rich heritage with captivating performances from Yoruba, Igbo and Hausa cultural troupes. Their colourful attires and electrifying dances reflected the nationalistic ethos of the Ile Iyan brand, which prides itself on promoting local cuisine and cultural values.
Among the dignitaries present were the Lagos State Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Abisola Olusanya; Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; Special Adviser To Governor Sanwo-Olu on Culture and Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe; SSA on New Media, Mr. Jubril Gawat; Hon. Remi Durojaiye; Engr. Bola Babarinde; and the General Secretary of Renewed Hope Global, among others.
In her remarks, the Commissioner for Agriculture, Hon. Abisola Olusanya, praised the tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit of the Ile Iyan CEO, whom she described as a true ambassador of Lagos. She recalled how Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu had endorsed the Ile Iyan brand at the Lagos Food Festival last year, following the company’s standout presentation of traditional Nigerian delicacies. “Today, this young man is not just building a business, he is preserving our culture and feeding the nation. That is why he is now proudly an ambassador for Lagos State,” she stated.
The CEO of Ile Iyan, during his speech, shared a heartfelt story of how he took the bold step to leave the comfort of home, choosing instead to forge his own path despite his parents’ willingness to continue supporting him financially. “It was not an easy decision, but I knew I had to prove something to myself and to the world,” he said. “Today, Ile Iyan is not just a business; it’s a movement to bring our local dishes to the global stage and to inspire young Nigerians that they too can succeed.”
With its new flagship location in the heart of Lekki, Ile Iyan is positioning itself as a leading brand in Nigeria’s food industry, combining tradition with innovation and creating job opportunities for young people. The opening marks a significant milestone for the brand, as it aims to expand across Lagos and ultimately beyond Nigeria’s borders.
The event concluded with a tour of the new facility, food tasting sessions and photo opportunities with guests and dignitaries. It was indeed a day of celebration, pride, and hope—a true testament to the power of vision, resilience and cultural pride.
