Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has revealed that he once generated more than ₦10 million monthly from a small food business selling akara and bread before venturing into politics.
Eno made the disclosure while speaking at the state’s monthly gathering, where he recounted his experience as an entrepreneur and explained how he started the business from a simple food concept.
According to the governor, he began by selling akara and bread, combining both in a package he called an “Akara Burger.” The business later expanded into a coffee shop.
He said workers heading to ExxonMobil were among his regular customers, particularly in the mornings, when they would stop by to buy the akara and bread and have coffee.
«“I started selling akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger,” Eno said while describing how the business operated.»
From simple food business to millions in monthly revenue
Eno said the business eventually grew significantly, generating not less than ₦10 million in a month.
The governor’s account highlights how he used a relatively simple food product and combined it with an additional service to create a broader customer experience.
The business was reportedly still operating at the location where it was originally established, according to Eno.
He also recalled how the coffee shop complemented the akara-and-bread business by providing customers with another reason to patronise the outlet.
Eno’s message to entrepreneurs
The governor’s disclosure has drawn attention because of the scale of income he said he was able to generate from a business built around everyday Nigerian food.
His story also reflects the potential for small businesses to grow by identifying a specific customer base, improving product presentation and adding complementary services.
Eno had built his business career before becoming involved in politics and eventually emerging as governor of Akwa Ibom State.
His account is now generating conversations about entrepreneurship and the opportunities that can exist in Nigeria’s food and hospitality sector, particularly for businesses that understand their customers and create products suited to their daily needs.
