*From Vision to Reality: The Inspiring Journey of ILÉ IYÁN’s Founder and Owner*

BY
CHINEDU NSOFOR

Introduction

Sanni Sheriff, Executive Chef and Owner of ILÉ IYÁN affectionately known as Chef Sanni, is not just a culinary expert but a visionary entrepreneur reshaping Nigeria’s dining scene. With over 15 years of dedication to his craft, Chef Sanni has transformed ILÉ IYÁN into the fastest-growing Nigerian restaurant. His journey from a young enthusiast to a celebrated chef and community leader exemplifies resilience, innovation, and a commitment to excellence.

Early Years and Culinary Passion

Born and raised in Lagos, Chef Sanni’s culinary journey began in his mother’s kitchen. From a young age, he exhibited a natural flair for cooking, inspired by his mother’s expertise in preparing various African delicacies. Despite pursuing a degree in Systems Engineering at The University of Lagos (UNILAG), Chef Sanni’s passion for cooking remained undeniable. He honed his skills at the Culinary Academy in Lagos, one of West Africa’s premier culinary schools, laying the foundation for his future success.

Building ILÉ IYÁN

Chef Sanni’s entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to authentic flavors propelled him to establish ILÉ IYÁN. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to quality, he crafted a dining experience that resonates with patrons seeking genuine Nigerian cuisine. Through meticulous experimentation and a deep understanding of the culinary world, Chef Sanni turned ILÉ IYÁN into a culinary destination known for its exquisite dishes and impeccable service.

Feed the Kids Initiative

Beyond his culinary ventures, Chef Sanni is driven by a passion for humanity and community development. He founded the Feed the Kids Initiative, dedicated to providing meals and educational support to less privileged children in Nigeria. Through the initiative, Community Kitchens have been established in Lagos, Abuja, and Kwara States, serving over 120,000 meals to date. Moreover, the initiative has created employment opportunities for widows and women in underserved communities, demonstrating Chef Sanni’s commitment to social impact.

Recognition and Influence

Chef Sanni’s contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning him accolades and recognition both locally and internationally. He has been appointed as a Youth Ambassador by the Ecowas Youth Council for his dedication to community development. Additionally, Chef Sanni serves as a brand influencer for leading companies in Nigeria, leveraging his platform to promote culinary innovation and social responsibility.

Mentorship and Leadership

In addition to his culinary pursuits, Chef Sanni is committed to nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs. He frequently shares his insights and experiences at various platforms, including the Kano Youth Summit, Pan Atlantic University, and The SME Roundtable, inspiring young minds to pursue their passions with determination and resilience.

Awards and Accolades

Chef Sanni’s impact on the culinary and humanitarian fronts has been recognized through numerous awards and honors. From the prestigious Silverbird African Brands Award to the JCI Entrepreneur Award, Chef Sanni’s contributions have been celebrated on both national and international stages. Notably, his efforts during the Covid-19 pandemic earned him recognition as one of the “100 heroes” by the Future Awards Africa for his community development projects.

Conclusion

Chef Sanni Sheriff’s journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. Through his culinary expertise and philanthropic endeavors, he has not only elevated Nigerian cuisine but has also transformed lives and communities. As a visionary entrepreneur and humanitarian, Chef Sanni continues to inspire and uplift, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary world and beyond.

*Dr Olukoya’s Unbridled love for Music will bring my Dad’s 25 years Dream to Fruition*

By Bimbo Esho

If there is any lesson I have learnt in life it is to share our *vision* and *dream* with like minds so it doesn’t die with us.

Over the years I have watched how many individuals reach the peak of their career and fame but end up dying without achieving their dreams.

Recalling the very first day my dad met with Dr Olukoya to discuss the *Evergreen Project* he said Dr Olukoya told him that he was 100% interested in the project.

There is no doubt that both men have intense and undiluted love for music. They have over the years selflessly given so much in ensuring that the Evergreens don’t go into extinction.

I have always had the conviction that the collaboration between these great men would birthe that which generations will benefit from.

Aside Dr Olukoya being an accomplished and respected preacher of the word and leading one of the most popular churches in Nigeria today *(MFM)* with branches growing in leaps and bounds his love for music seems unmatchable .

*Dr Olukoya teaches music, wrote his first song in 1976 and his church choir is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, having won several international choir competitions in Europe and other parts of the world. He has supported many musicians in achieving their goals. He breathes, drink and eat quality music .Today he has over 200 hymns and songs to his credit.*

Dr Olukoya who is the *patron* of the *Evergreen Music Heritage Foundation* has shown us that his word is his bond. His consistency in ensuring that my dad’s dream of 25 years is brought to fruition is mind blowing . Not only has he used his goodwill together with ours to ensure we secure a *magnificent edifice* that perfectly matches the Evergreen Dream his *financial and moral contribution has been invaluable.*

The edifice situated in *Anthony Village, Lagos* on completion will be an *Experience Center* where people in and outside Nigeria will be privileged to see our country’s musical worth and history. *There will be on display music from 1914, musical relics( old musical instruments/equipments, head bust of artistes, original vinyl of artistes, books, documentaries, cassettes, reel to reel, gramophone as old as 100 years, journals, cassettes, etc). Also the edifice shall have a music studio, a theatre, an event hall for meetings and concerts, etc*

For me I believe this should be one of our contributions to humanity and posterity.

We are therefore calling on all music enthusiasts and like minds all over the world to come support this laudable project that will no doubt be a contribution to a legacy that will sustain generations . We are also using this opportunity to thank those who have been supportive of this project till date .

*Bimbo Esho*
Managing Director
Evergreen Musical Company Ltd

*Respect Court Order, Vacate Palace in Peace – Forum of Chiefs Tells Former Emir Sanusi

The Forum of Chiefs in Nigeria has advised Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to respect the Federal High Court order and vacate the Kano Emir’s Palace immediately.

The Forum said the court’s decision, delivered on Tuesday, is final and binding, adding that it is essential to prioritise peace and stability in Kano State.

In a statement jointly signed by its President, Chief Ameh Adaji, and Secretary General, Chief Danladi Etsu, the Forum noted that a king cannot reign without the support of the people and that illegally occupying a palace, as Sanusi is doing, is unacceptable anywhere in the world.

They said forceful eviction by security agents would be a last resort, and hence urged Sanusi to avoid any actions that may lead to embarrassment, violence or unrest.

The chiefs further called on Sanusi to lead by example as a former custodian of culture and tradition by respecting the law of the land and vacating the palace.

“The Forum of Chiefs in Nigeria, the umbrella body of lower grade traditional rulers in the country, has urged Sanusi Lamido Sanusi to vacate the palace with immediate effect as ordered by the Federal High Court,” the statement said.

“His insistence on occupying the palace despite the court order is not only a violation of the law of the land but also a mockery of the revered ancient throne of Kano.

“As a former royal father, Sanusi should prioritize the peace of the state above self-aggrandizement. He should also know better than to be an unwilling tool in the hands of desperate politicians on a vendetta.

“As a Muslim, Sanusi should know that it is only God that gives and takes power. He has had his turn as an Emir and should stop trying to sneak back into the palace through the back door. The former Emir should accept the will of God because the will of the people is the will of God and the law is the interpretation of the will of the people.

“Sanusi has made the Kano emirship a laughing stock in the committee of emirates. Already, Kano is on the verge of a breakdown of law and order because he refuses to obey the law. The former Emir should peacefully vacate the palace to protect his family’s legacy and the rich heritage of Kano.

“We hope that he would heed the voice of wisdom and vacate the place as ordered by the court of law and save Kano from impending anarchy. The people of Kano are already enduring excruciating hardship in the state, and it would be inhumane for Sanusi to deprive them of peace too.

“We call on the police and other relevant security agencies to compel Sanusi to vacate the palace if he continues to flout the court order. Illegally occupying the palace against the will of the people and the rule of law is not acceptable anywhere in the world. The government must take urgent drastic steps to ensure peace and stability in Kano State.

“We urge the peace-loving people of Kano to remain law-abiding despite the provocations from those who are bent on undermining the people and the law of the land. All hands must be on deck to ensure there is no breakdown of law and order in the commercial nerve centre of the North and Nigeria’s most populous state.”