By Qudirat Hakeem-Apanpa
Behind the colourful platters, the inviting aroma of freshly prepared delicacies, and the excitement that greets guests at the celebration of Omowunmi Shakirat Diekola—new President of the Professional Finger Foods of Nigeria (PFN), Osun State Chapter—lies a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Her journey from the kitchen to the presidency serves as a beautiful reminder that when passion is nurtured with knowledge, consistency, and hard work, it can become a catalyst for meaningful change.
Diekola Omowunmi regards this recognition as both an honour and a call to greater service. Her testimony reveals a professional who views every assignment as an opportunity to serve better and raise standards.
She has meticulously attended to taste, presentation, quality, and customer satisfaction, recognising that the success of an event often hinges on the details. Her election as Osun PFN President, celebrated with pomp and pageantry and accompanied by accolades from colleagues, friends, apprentices, and well-wishers, reflects a journey rooted in creativity, consistency, continuous learning, and an enduring dedication to excellence.
In celebrating this recognition, Diekola acknowledges the vital role played by customers, supporters, recommenders, and everyone who has believed in her work.
Diekola views this achievement as a testament to their encouragement and patronage, recognising that no meaningful journey occurs in isolation.
The association was launched in 2018 in Osogbo under the leadership of Mrs Oluwayemisi Longe of Moreplzz Concept, who later relocated to Benin. The group has continued to empower aspiring bakers in Osogbo and its surrounding areas.
As she takes office, Diekola expresses her vision of fostering professionalism, innovation, integrity, collaboration, and excellence among finger-food entrepreneurs in Osun State.
Many of Diekola Omowunmi’s colleagues, apprentices, and contemporaries in the industry have shared commendable remarks about her emergence.
Mrs Baruwa Bolaji of SHAKMAT Edible Treats describes her as an exceptional person, a figure of admirable character, a superhero, and a trusted adviser.
“She has captured my heart with the unique love she extends to people, not just within the food and baking industry; she helps others realise their uniqueness and potential,” says Mrs Bolaji.
“Her character alone contributes to her greatness in the baking industry. Omowunmi is a special person with a heart of gold, and she truly deserves her place as president. I wish her well in her tenure.”
Rabiu Florence Olanike of Hi-sight Concept Osogbo states, “Mrs Diekola Omowumi Shakirah deserves the position of Osun State President because she is not only a baker and businesswoman; she is a leader with a heart to serve and the capacity to make a difference.”
She highlights that one of her unique qualities is her kindness; she genuinely cares for those around her and is committed to helping others succeed.
To Rabiu Florence Olanike, their new PFN President is not merely a boss who gives instructions but a leader who teaches, encourages, corrects, supports, and creates opportunities for others to improve.
“Her leadership extends beyond herself; she carries people along and is willing to share her knowledge and experience with those who follow her,” she observes.
“I believe this is one of the greatest qualities a president should have. Leadership is not just about occupying a position; it is about serving people, uniting them, listening to their concerns, creating opportunities, and advancing the industry.”
She adds: “From my personal experience with her, I have seen a woman who understands the baking industry, is aware of the struggles bakers face, and has the capacity to represent their interests.
Perhaps no one has observed Diekola’s journey more closely than Mr AbdulHameed Olayinka Abubakar, her husband and mentor, who praised her for excelling despite numerous challenges.
“Today, my heart is filled with joy, gratitude, and immense pride as I watch her embark on this new chapter of her journey as the newly elected President of the Professional Finger Foods of Nigeria; this position is not merely a title, but a recognition of her passion, creativity, consistency, sacrifice, resilience, and dedication to her craft,” he remarks.
“I have witnessed her transformation from a woman with a dream into one whose work now speaks for her, whose character inspires others, and whose leadership has earned the confidence of her colleagues.”
According to her husband, “She has shown that greatness does not always announce itself with noise. It often begins quietly in a kitchen, with a small idea, countless sleepless nights, imperfect beginnings, and the courage to persevere when nobody is watching.”
He urged her to remember that leadership is not about occupying the highest seat; it is about helping others to rise.“Your greatest achievement in this office will not only be the awards you receive or the programmes you organise, but also the number of lives you touch, the businesses you strengthen, the women and young people you inspire, and the professionals whose talents you help bring to the fore.”
