Ibadan’s food lovers have a new reason to smile, and probably loosen their belts a little as Sooyah Bistro, one of Nigeria’s leading modern suya spot, cuts the ribbon on its second Ibadan outlet.
The grand opening took place on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at the Richie Rich Building, opposite Bollads Event Centre, Akala Express.
This latest addition marks the brand’s 11th outlet nationwide, a proud milestone for a food business that began with little more than a dream, a grill, and a generous helping of grit.
Speaking with emotion and pride, Mrs. Olamidun Ogundoyin, Founder and CEO of Sooyah Bistro, recounted the humble beginnings that birthed what is now one of Nigeria’s fastest-growing casual dining brands.
“I started Sooyah Bistro in 2018 as a side hustle in Lagos with just N20,000 worth of stock and a Suya Mallam,” she said with a smile while addressing newsmen at the official opening.
“The original idea was to spread the joy of Nigerian food and reimagine how we eat suya. We’ve grown organically, no loans, no investors, just passion and the unwavering support of our customers.”
From that small flame in Lagos, Sooyah Bistro has sparked a nationwide appetite for its creative takes on traditional Nigerian street food.
Its first Ibadan branch, located on Ring Road, already enjoys a loyal following. The Akala Express outlet now joins the lineup, and the brand isn’t stopping there.
According her, plans are already in motion for a third Ibadan branch in Bodija and a bold expansion into Abuja and other key Nigerian cities.
Mrs. Ogundoyin calls Sooyah Bistro “Suya wey get master’s degree”, a fitting description for a brand that’s managed to turn the age-old street delicacy into a sophisticated culinary experience. Their menu tells the story best: Suya burgers, Suya shawarma, Suya rice bowls, and a lineup of innovative dishes that fuse nostalgia with modern taste.
For her, Sooyah Bistro isn’t just about food. It’s a love letter to Nigerian culture, told one sizzling skewer at a time.
In word of advice to prospective Nigerian entrepreneurs, she said: “Start small. Be passionate. Be dedicated. I began with just N20,000 and no formal funding, and today we’re celebrating our 11th branch. Your passion is more valuable than money.”
Guests at the grand opening soaked in the atmosphere, a lively mix of music, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of perfectly grilled suya that drifted into the Ibadan evening.
She said with over 120 employees and counting, “Sooyah Bistro is fast becoming a symbol of what’s possible when creativity meets consistency.
“As our brand continues its steady march toward Bodija and Abuja, one thing is very clear. Sooyah Bistro isn’t just selling food. It’s serving a lifestyle, a story, and a slice of Nigerian pride with every bite.”