In an exclusive interview with Mr. Hope, the long-standing owner of a popular food stall at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), we dive into his 15-year journey providing students and staff with delicious, affordable, and quick meals. Here, Mr. Hope shares his insights on food hygiene, waste management, and his contribution to the vibrant campus community.
Introduce Yourself
“My name is Hope, and I am the owner of a food stall here at the Nigerian Institute of Journalism, Ogba, Lagos. I’ve been running this business for the past 15 years, providing students and staff with tasty, affordable, and quick meals.”
What measures do you take to ensure the cleanliness and hygiene of your food stall?
“To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, I follow strict routines each day. Every morning, before I begin food preparation, I thoroughly clean all surfaces, including counters and cooking equipment, to ensure there’s no leftover food or grease. I wash my hands frequently, especially before handling food, and I provide hand sanitizers for both myself and my customers. I store food properly, ensuring perishable items are kept in sealed containers and at the correct temperatures to prevent spoilage. Additionally, I remove waste regularly and keep the surrounding environment tidy to prevent contamination. These practices build trust with my customers, ensuring they feel safe and confident in the food I serve.”
What is your waste management strategy, and how do you dispose of food waste?
“My waste management strategy centers on cleanliness and minimizing environmental impact. I separate waste—food scraps, packaging, and disposable items—and store them in proper bins with lids to avoid contamination. Food waste is disposed of daily to prevent odors and buildup. I also use separate bins for recyclables and non-recyclables, ensuring everything is disposed of in line with local waste regulations. For food scraps, I ensure they’re bagged properly and thrown away in a designated area to avoid attracting pests. This way, I maintain hygiene and contribute to keeping the surrounding area clean and sustainable.”
How do you contribute to the overall student experience at NIJ?
“I contribute to the overall student experience by providing a convenient, affordable, and welcoming spot where students can enjoy quality food during their breaks. My stall serves as a place where students can relax, socialize, and recharge between classes. I aim to create a friendly atmosphere, offering a variety of local and popular dishes that cater to different tastes. This helps students feel at home and supported through their busy days. Additionally, by consistently offering good food at reasonable prices, I make their academic journey a bit easier and more enjoyable.”
How do you source your ingredients, and do you prioritize local or sustainable suppliers?
“I prioritize sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to support the community and ensure freshness. I work closely with trusted vendors around the Ogba area, who provide me with fresh produce and meats daily. By choosing local suppliers, I can ensure the ingredients are of the highest quality while contributing to the local economy. I also strive to be sustainable by selecting environmentally friendly products and minimizing waste in my operations.”
Is there anything else you would like to share about your experience as a food vendor at NIJ?
“Over the past 15 years as a food vendor at NIJ, I’ve built strong relationships with students and staff. It’s more than just selling food; it’s about being a part of their daily lives and contributing to their overall experience. I’ve seen students come and go, but the satisfaction of serving a warm meal and seeing familiar faces every day has kept me motivated. One key lesson I’ve learned is the importance of adaptability—trends change, student preferences evolve, and external factors like the economy impact business. But through it all, I’ve stayed resilient, listened to my customers, and adapted when needed. The support of the NIJ community has been invaluable, and I take pride in knowing I help make their time here a little easier and more enjoyable. I’m grateful for the opportunity to serve, and I look forward to continuing to provide quality food and service to the students and staff for many more years.”
Speaking with Mr. Hope, the dedicated food stall owner at NIJ, sheds light on the integral role small businesses play in a student community. Over 15 years, Mr. Hope has not only adjusted to changing customer preferences but has created a space that enriches the overall student experience. His commitment to hygiene, customer satisfaction, and adaptability highlights the resilience and dedication that small business owners bring to their local communities. Beyond simply providing meals, Mr. Hope’s food stall has become a cherished part of the NIJ experience, offering nourishment, comfort, and a sense of belonging to both students and staff.
By Murtala Boluwatife Fuad, Tunji Ayanwole and Ayo Fanegan.
