Hammed “Hammy” Obikoya — founder of Mama Bobo, Belfast’s beloved Nigerian restaurant and grocery store — has been named one of 14 UK entrepreneurs chosen as Start Up Loans Ambassadors for 2025.
Mama Bobo has quickly become a community favourite, serving authentic Nigerian meals that bring a taste of home to the growing Nigerian and African community in Northern Ireland.
💡 How It Started:
In 2023, Hammy and his mother, Dorcas — well-known locally for her delicious cooking — decided to open Belfast’s first-ever Nigerian restaurant. With the help of a £25,000 Start Up Loan, they purchased essential equipment like fridges and gas cookers, imported ingredients from Nigeria, and covered early business expenses.
“People had been asking mum for a long time to open a restaurant, but we weren’t confident about taking a loan,” Hammy shared. “The Start Up Loans process was much easier than I could have imagined — it helped us make our dream a reality.”
Now, Mama Bobo stands as a symbol of perseverance, family, and cultural pride — showing that Nigerian food and business spirit can thrive anywhere in the UK.
🏆 About the Ambassador Programme:
The Start Up Loans Ambassador programme celebrates small business owners across the UK who have turned their ideas into thriving enterprises with government-backed funding and mentoring support.
Through this recognition, Hammy joins a list of inspiring UK entrepreneurs who are using their stories to motivate others — especially migrants — to pursue their own business dreams.
“Hammy’s business is a perfect example of how a Start Up Loan can transform ideas into successful ventures,” said Susan McKane, Senior Manager for Northern Ireland at the British Business Bank. “He will undoubtedly inspire many others to take that leap.”
🌍 Why It Matters for Nigerians in the UK:
For many Nigerians living abroad, stories like Hammy’s show that success doesn’t only happen in London. With the right support, determination, and a bit of “Naija energy,” new businesses can thrive anywhere across the UK — even in places like Belfast.
👉🏾 Thinking of starting your own business?
Learn more about the UK government’s Start Up Loans programme at www.startuploans.co.uk.
Join Our WhatsApp Channel
Stay updated on the latest UK news, including education, health, job openings, and more for those living in the UK!
Join here: Naija UK Channel
Also, follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates and discussions:
- Twitter: @NaijaUKConnect
- Facebook: Naija UK Connect
- Instagram: @naijaukconnect
