Weeks after First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, encouraged Nigerians facing economic hardship to explore low-capital businesses such as the sale of Akara and Kuli-Kuli, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has recalled how he once made a fortune from selling Akara and bread.
Governor Eno shared the experience on Wednesday, September 2, 2026, while speaking during the state’s monthly Covenant Prayer Service.
According to the governor, he started the small-scale food business many years ago by selling Akara and bread, eventually expanding it into what he described as an early coffee shop.
He explained that one of his popular offerings was what he called “Akara Burger,” where Akara was placed inside sliced bread for customers, particularly workers heading to ExxonMobil in the mornings.
“We still have that shop there. I started selling Akara and bread. Back then, I was doing Akara Burger. We open the bread and put it inside for you.
“People going to ExxonMobil will buy it in the morning, take coffee… we started a coffee shop.
“Every month, that Akara business used to give me nothing less than ₦10 million in a month,” he said.
The governor’s recollection highlights how seemingly modest businesses can, with the right market and management, grow into profitable ventures.
His comments also come weeks after the First Lady urged Nigerians, particularly those with limited capital, to consider small businesses such as Akara and Kuli-Kuli as avenues for improving their livelihoods amid the country’s economic challenges.
Governor Eno’s account offers a personal example of how a small food business can serve as a stepping stone to greater financial success.
