Multiple streams of income is not alien to many young Nigerians, especially those who understand the need to maximize their earning power. Ibrahim Ayomide Victoria is one of these people.

Ayomide is a 300-level Marine Biology student at the University of Lagos running not one but two businesses simultaneously. She runs Veeky Shawarma, a shawarma catering service for hangouts, birthdays, and small gatherings; and Veeky Fashion Institute, a sewing business that creates custom clothing for clients who want something made specifically for them. Two completely different offerings, one determined student behind both.

The businesses grew from genuine interests rather than grand plans. Ayomide enjoys creating things people can use and enjoy, whether that is food for a birthday party or a custom outfit that fits someone’s personality perfectly. What started as passion gradually attracted customers, and what attracted customers gradually became something worth taking seriously.

Ayomide and Spotting Opportunities

The shawarma business was built around a simple observation. Students and young people love convenient, affordable food, especially at social gatherings. Rather than limiting herself to single orders, Ayomide saw the bigger opportunity in catering for events. Birthdays, hangouts, and small parties became her sweet spot.

The sewing business came from a different but equally clear gap. Ready-made clothes are everywhere, but clothes made specifically for one person, built around their style and personality, are harder to find. That is the space Ayomide chose to occupy.

Keeping Up With It All

Balancing two businesses with a demanding 300-level Marine Biology course is no small feat. Practicals, assignments, and lectures compete constantly with customer orders and delivery timelines. Ayomide manages it through deliberate planning. She organizes orders ahead of time, communicates clearly with customers, and knows when to put school first.

The mindset shift came when repeat customers started referring her to their friends. That kind of organic trust told her that people were not buying out of sympathy. They genuinely liked what she was offering.

Her Advice to Other Students

Ayomide’s message to fellow students is direct: start small and do not be ashamed of it. You do not need a big budget or a large space to begin. A skill and a willingness to solve someone’s problem is enough.

She insists that being a student is not a barrier to building something real. It is actually the perfect time to start.