By Okosun Dennis
Most consumers of “kilishi” and peppered “Suya” delicacies made from Cow or Ram meat are quite popular in the Northern part of the country, with an enormous consumption population.
Quite recently, however, ‘kilishi,’ ‘Danbun Nama’ meat floss, Fura have not only gained popularity in the northern part of the country but have made significant presences in the Southern part of Nigeria with an array of enthusiastic consumers.
In the ongoing GTCO Food and Drink Festival, taking place at the GTCO Centre, Plot 1, Water Corporation Drive, Oniru, Victoria Island, customers have continued to troop the stand of Halal Eats buying off their products.
Halal Eats, specializes in Danbun Nama, Kilishi, Guinea fowl, Arabian Signature, Original Honey, Shitto Hot Chilli sauce, Pepper soup sauce, Macho mix pepper, Yaji Multi-purpose pepper etc.
Speaking with our Correspondent, the Manager Habiba Bashari said that they are locally based food processing company in the Northern part of the country, with a branch in Lagos.
“Halal Eats is a core Northern restaurant or fast food where we do grills, proper northern Suya stuff, Ram suya, Guinea fowl, Chicken, Kilishi, Danbun Nama, Fura, Mansa and Tiger nuts.
“We do everything – the Arabian Signature – we do it, especially to the extent that when you see our product, you will know that it has the finest tough of preparation in the most hygienic environment.”
Explaining their production line, and how they have been able to effectively manage it, Mrs. Bashari disclosed that “Our products are locally sourced. In our stores, nothing is sourced from Lagos, we brought everything from the North; including our staff. None of them is from Lagos.”
Despite the economic downturn and how it has affected sales, she gives an insight, “So far, so good. We all have our little complaints but we are coping fairly. We don’t have any form of loan from the bank and have been able to manage despite the economic crunch.”
Halal Eats has an array of products, amazingly packaged that can compete internationally. To this, Habiba Bashari reiterated that they have achieved a milestone in that aspect because they have been very conscious of what they send to the marketplace.
“Everything about us is locally sourced. We have been on it for years. However, before we got into existence, we ensured we knew what we were doing. Our kilishi is the best in the market and is prepared by local hands and people. We have people that we train for it. However, we make it in the North and send it down here. I know my people and have confidence in their abilities to handle that aspect.
On how long they have been in business, Mrs. Bashari disclosed that they have been in business for about three years and have done fantastically well.
While appreciating GTCO Food and Drink for the singular opportunity to be part of this year’s festival, she noted, “I have always been a fan of GT Bank from childhood. I have banked with them and theirs is my oldest account, and have been part of this bank. I am happy that I got a slot. We would continue with them.
“I am highly impressed. Two days ago, when I entered the hall, I was shocked to see what I saw. Very impressive. We thank God for this opportunity and are glad to be here,” Mrs. Habiba Bashari, the Managing Director explained to our correspondent in Lagos.
GTCO Food and Drink is an annual rendezvous for both local and international food vendors, culinary makers, and chefs to showcase what they have on their sleeves.
Since Friday, 26th April, 2024 when the festival began, it has attracted the hugest crowd of customers with numerous masterclasses.
