Can you tell us a bit about yourself?
My name is Ayeni-Wuraola Ogungbola, a Biochemistry graduate from Bowen University. I’m a proud mother of two energetic boys, an adventurous food lover, and the Founder and CEO of IYL Foods and Confectionery Limited—a brand driven by innovation and a passion for quality food. Outside of business, I enjoy cooking, trying out new cuisines, traveling, engaging conversations, and of course, selling—something that has always come naturally to me.
Tell us more about IYL Foods and Confectionery. What does the business do, and what makes it stand out?
At IYL Foods and Confectionery Limited, our business operates under two dynamic arms:
- Food Processing & Packaging (IYL Foods): We specialize in the processing and packaging of dry food items such as locally sourced rice, an array of spices, and ready-to-eat sauces. All our products are crafted with care at our certified factory in Ibadan, ensuring both quality and consistency from processing to distribution.
- Food Services (Iyawolaideolowosibi): This arm focuses on providing freshly prepared, delicious meals delivered straight to our customers’ doorsteps. It’s our way of bringing convenience and homemade goodness to busy households and food lovers across our network.
Whether it’s shelf-stable pantry staples or heartwarming meals, our goal is to deliver food that nourishes and delights every single time.
That’s impressive. How did your entrepreneurial journey begin, and what has the path looked like so far?
It all started with just ₦4,000 (US$2.52) from a single customer, which earned me a modest ₦400 (US$0.25) profit. I began by preparing home-cooked meals for clients, slowly building trust and consistency. Over time, this passion for food evolved into something bigger: I ventured into processing and packaging dry food products, driven by the dream of scaling up and creating impact.
In the early days, I balanced entrepreneurship with a full-time job at a financial institution, using my salary to sustain and reinvest in the business. It wasn’t easy, especially juggling motherhood. At one point, I faced a terrifying experience when a domestic worker attempted to run away with my child. Despite it all, I stayed focused.
Every kobo I earned was poured back into the business. Today, IYL Foods operates a certified processing facility, is NAFDAC-approved, and is supported by a small but passionate team. It’s been a journey of grit, growth, and grace.
You’ve clearly built something incredible with IYL Foods. Let’s talk about the journey to getting your products registered with NAFDAC. How did that process unfold for you?
The first time I walked into the NAFDAC office to inquire about registration, I left feeling completely discouraged. The requirements felt financially overwhelming at the time. But I also knew that if I wanted to grow, formal certification wasn’t optional; It was essential.
So, I took a deep breath, secured a factory space, hired the right team, and began to follow the process step-by-step. It taught me the power of delegation and trust. It wasn’t easy, but we stayed the course, and today, IYL Foods proudly operates with NAFDAC certification.
Every entrepreneur has their battles. What have been some of your biggest challenges, and how have you tackled them
Oh, there have been many. Some days, I still feel like I’m learning on the job.
- Time Management is still a work in progress.
- Lack of Funds? I started by bootstrapping with ₦4,000, reinvested every kobo, worked a 9-5 to support the dream, and even won a ₦100,000 (US$63.08) grant in our second year.
- Limited Information used to hold me back. Now, I’m an avid researcher and question-asker.
- Sourcing Raw Materials was tough at first, but I’ve built reliable relationships with local farmers.
- Bad Partnerships taught me tough lessons. Some partners misused funds, others tried to hijack the business. Today, I trust my gut more than ever.
Your product range is impressive and diverse. Where does your inspiration come from?
Honestly, my inspiration is rooted in heritage.
I come from a family of agricultural entrepreneurs—farming wasn’t just business, it was life.
My maternal grandfather was both a SAN and a farmer-hunter. We grew almost everything we ate—cassava, vegetables, even calabash. My paternal grandfather was a serial entrepreneur, and both my grandmothers were deeply skilled in herbs, spices, and traditional food prep.
That upbringing taught me the value of hard work, the beauty of local ingredients, and the joy of nourishing others. That’s where my creativity comes from.
You wear many hats—entrepreneur, employee, mother. How do you juggle it all?
It comes down to four things: Determination, Persistence, Zeal, and Hunger.
I learned resilience from my mother, a career woman who never gave up. My father, one of the hardest-working men I know, instilled in me the value of providing for your family with integrity.
Whenever I’m exhausted or overwhelmed, I remind myself:
- Why I started – That’s the Zeal
- What keeps me going – That’s the Hunger
- What I want to achieve – That’s the Determination
- What it will take to get there – That’s the Persistence
Looking ahead, what’s your long-term vision for IYL Foods?
I see IYL Foods growing into a globally recognized brand, far beyond what we are today. I want to expand our product line, reach international markets, and create even more opportunities for others through our work.
For entrepreneurs navigating product registration with NAFDAC, what advice would you offer
Don’t cut corners. Do it and do it the right way.
Yes, the process can feel intimidating, especially when funds are tight. But getting that certification adds credibility, unlocks bigger markets, and positions you for long-term growth. It’s an investment in your brand’s future. Stay the course, it’s worth it.
Finally, for those who’ve been inspired by your story, where can they connect with you and follow IYL Foods?
I’d love to connect. You can find us online and follow our journey here:
Instagram: @iylfoods | @thechefgold
Facebook: Ayeni-Wuraola Ogungbola
Factory Address: 1 Patako Street, Idito, Sango, Ibadan, Oyo State
Office Address: 17 Akinsanya Street, Ojodu Berger, Lagos
We love sharing our food stories, behind-the-scenes magic, and the passion that drives us, so don’t hesitate to reach out.
