BIRTHDAY: HOW FAMILY, FRIENDS CELEBRATED PIONEER ‘AKARA SUYA’ TRADER IN AKURE, DEACONESS ALICE AINA @ 90
It is the story of an industrious woman who believes that one can break new grounds as a business owner, trader and community leader.
At a young age, Mama Alice Aina who hails from Ekan meje/ Ilorin in Kwara State had been a trader in the northern part of Nigeria with a unique approach to her choice of business.
Frying akara was what she settled for and her own style was completely different from the conventional approach which the people of the southwest are known for.
Unlike the traditional way by which the beans are peeled and ground and later fry as balls, Mama Deaconess Alice Aina peels her beans and fry as usual but get the ‘akara’ laced with sliced onions and ‘yaji’ which is a combination of pepper and spices which makes it taste like kebab popularly known as ‘suya’, a delicacy championed and promoted by Hausa tribe in northern part of Nigeria.
She became popular in the north, precisely Sokoto State but later relocated to Akure the Ondo State capital in 1988.
She didn’t just relocate, it was an opportunity to display a skill that the people of the ancient town has not been used to.
She then began the delicacy popularly known as ‘Akara Suya’ in Akure and it became a well sought after meal l, especially with bread and ‘eko elewe'(pap folded in leaves).
The queue at her shop located opposite the old Police Headquarters on Oyemekun road would attract any passer-by to want a taste of ‘akara Suya’.
Though due to old age, she has retired, her children are keeping the flag flying as what started like a hobby and minor business now feeds many members of the family.
And on September 25th, Mama Deaconess Alice Aina clocked 90 years old.
Family, children and well-wishers gathered at Christ Apostolic Church, Oke-Ipadabo in Akure to celebrate Mama and appreciate the Most High for sparing her life.
It was a scene to behold as the family and entire congregation displayed joyful mood that made mama feel young even at that age.
She didn’t only dance to the admiration of the congregation, she appreciated God for the gift of life and promised to continue to praise the untill her last day on earth.
Addressing the gathering, the Pastor in charge of the church, DCC Superintendent Taiwo John urged upcoming generations to emulate the exemplary life of the celebrant.
He prayed for more celebrations in good health and peace of mind.
