The Power of Purpose: How Aisha Bashir Sule Is Redefining Entrepreneurship in Bauchi

I’m excited to share the remarkable story of Aisha Bashir Sule, a dental surgeon and multi-industry entrepreneur from Bauchi, Nigeria, whose journey is a testament to passion, resilience, and vision. Aisha’s path began at Gulf Medical University in the UAE, where she earned her degree in Dental Surgery. There, she immersed herself in rigorous clinical and academic training, developing a deep commitment to healthcare, patient care, and professionalism. This foundation not only shaped her as a dentist but also fueled her ability to lead diverse ventures: City Dental Clinic, Aifa’s Clothing, Frozen by Aifa, and even shortlet rentals, each reflecting her drive to create meaningful impact.

As the CEO of City Dental Clinic, Aisha has built a thriving practice that stands out for its patient-first philosophy. The clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, from routine checkups and restorative treatments to advanced cosmetic dentistry, all delivered in an environment designed to make patients feel comfortable and empowered. The name “City Dental Clinic” is deeply personal—it’s an extension of a family legacy, as her father runs City Clinic, a medical facility in Bauchi. Aisha chose the name to honor that tradition while carving her own path in healthcare. Leading a team that shares her values of innovation, trust, and excellence, she’s positioned the clinic as a cornerstone of modern dental care in Bauchi, blending global standards with local warmth. Her focus on patient education—ensuring every individual understands their treatment and feels cared for—sets the clinic apart in a region where dental care can sometimes feel impersonal.

Aifa’s Clothing, Aisha’s fashion brand, is a celebration of modesty, individuality, and cultural pride. The name “Aifa” holds special significance, blending “Ai” from Aisha and “Fa” from her sister Fatima, a term coined by their father for one of his projects. It’s a symbol of family unity and creativity that Aisha carries into her work. Through Aifa’s Clothing, she designs bold, modest pieces that resonate with women who want to express their style while staying true to their values. Her designs draw inspiration from Nigerian culture and her own experiences, offering something fresh in a market often dominated by generic trends. One of her proudest achievements was the Friends Collection, where she named each piece after her closest friends. The personal touch struck a chord, creating a deep connection with customers and earning widespread admiration for its authenticity and creativity.

Frozen by Aifa, Aisha’s dessert brand, brings joy to Bauchi through vibrant, high-quality frozen treats. She launched it after noticing a lack of creative, hygienic desserts in the area—a gap she felt personally as a dessert lover. The name “Frozen by Aifa” captures the fun, homemade essence of her popsicles, which burst with local flavors and colorful aesthetics. A defining moment came when she opened the shop during Eid, giving out popsicles to less privileged children. The joy on their faces was a reminder of why she started the brand: to spread happiness through small, delightful experiences. With a strong social media presence, Frozen by Aifa has become Bauchi’s first major popsicle brand, captivating customers with its bold approach and commitment to quality.

Each of Aisha’s ventures was born from a personal need or a gap she observed in her community. Dentistry is her first love, rooted in her desire to improve lives through healthcare. Aifa’s Clothing emerged from her frustration with the lack of stylish, modest fashion options. Frozen by Aifa was sparked by her love for desserts and a vision to offer something innovative and hygienic. Her medical education plays a pivotal role in how she runs these businesses. The resilience, problem-solving, and precision she learned in dental school translate into every aspect of her work—whether she’s formulating recipes, designing clothes, or strategizing growth. Her ability to think long-term, plan meticulously, and adapt quickly allows her to juggle these diverse ventures with a clear focus on quality and impact.

At the heart of Aisha’s brands are the values of excellence, creativity, and trust. At City Dental Clinic, she ensures patients are not just treated but educated and empowered, making dental care a collaborative journey. Aifa’s Clothing reflects respect for its audience, offering designs that are modest yet expressive, celebrating both individuality and community. Frozen by Aifa prioritizes hygiene and quality, delivering desserts that feel like a labor of love. Aisha embeds these values into every facet of her businesses, from team training to customer interactions to product development. For example, at the clinic, her staff is trained to prioritize empathy and clear communication. At Frozen by Aifa, she’s raised hygiene standards to ensure every treat meets her high expectations. With Aifa’s Clothing, every design is crafted with intention, respecting the women who wear them.

What makes Aisha’s brands stand out in their respective markets? City Dental Clinic combines cutting-edge techniques with genuine care, transforming the often-intimidating experience of dentistry into something approachable and empowering. Aifa’s Clothing offers original, locally inspired designs that carve a unique space in a saturated fashion market. Frozen by Aifa, as Bauchi’s first major popsicle brand, brings bold flavors, vibrant aesthetics, and a savvy social media strategy that keeps customers engaged and excited.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. Building multiple businesses with limited resources was daunting, as was training staff to meet her high standards and earning customer trust from scratch. Frozen by Aifa faced seasonal hurdles, particularly during the rainy season when demand for frozen treats dipped. The competitive dental landscape in Bauchi also tested her resilience. But Aisha tackled these obstacles with consistency, a willingness to seek help, and a commitment to refining her approach. She learned to delegate effectively, invest in her teams, and stay focused on what works, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

Aisha’s vision for the future is ambitious and inspiring. For Frozen by Aifa, she’s working on a line of magical, wildly creative desserts—think bold flavors and fun textures that make every bite an experience. Her goal is to make it Bauchi’s go-to dessert spot and expand to multiple locations across Nigeria, with dreams of exporting her handcrafted treats to neighboring African countries, showcasing Nigerian creativity on a global stage. Aifa’s Clothing is poised for growth with a new ready-to-wear line that combines effortless style with modesty, designed for women who want to look chic without overthinking their outfits. Aisha aims to make it a nationally recognized brand, with plans to improve online accessibility and showcase her collections on larger platforms, both locally and internationally. City Dental Clinic is embracing aesthetic and high-tech dentistry, from digital smile makeovers to advanced cosmetic treatments, while expanding community outreach through free checkups and oral health education for underserved groups. Aisha also envisions opening more branches and launching a mentorship program to nurture young dental professionals, giving back to the field that shaped her.

Beyond her main ventures, Aisha is involved in shortlet rentals, exploring new ways to create value and diversify her impact. Her community work is particularly close to her heart—organizing free dental checkups and oral health education for underserved communities has been one of the most fulfilling parts of her journey, reflecting her belief in service as a core driver of her work.

Aisha’s story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with vision and perseverance. To aspiring entrepreneurs, she offers this advice: start small but dream big. Don’t shy away from exploring different passions, as long as you stay true to your values. Focus on quality, stay consistent, and never stop learning. Growth takes time, but authenticity and resilience will always set you apart. Aisha’s journey—from a dental student in the UAE to a multi-industry trailblazer in Bauchi—shows that with heart and hustle, you can build brands that not only succeed but serve, leaving a lasting impact on your community and beyond.

The Farmer’s Son Who Dreamed Big: Mohammed Shettima’s Extraordinary Journey to Agricultural Stardom with Hayerma Farms

Let me tell you the remarkable story of Mohammed Aminu Shettima, a visionary entrepreneur and politician from Bauchi, Nigeria, whose unwavering commitment to agriculture and community empowerment gave rise to Hayerma Farms. Born into a family that cherished hard work, resilience, and service, Mohammed’s upbringing was deeply shaped by his parents’ influence. His father, a multifaceted figure in agriculture, real estate, and public service, ran farms that Mohammed saw as more than just fields—they were engines of economic growth, pillars of food security, and models of sustainable development. Watching the ripple effect of those farms on their community, from providing livelihoods to fostering unity, ignited a passion in Mohammed that would define his life’s work. This early exposure planted the seeds for Hayerma Farms, a venture that would blend innovation, sustainability, and community upliftment.

The name Hayerma Farms holds profound meaning, chosen as a heartfelt tribute to Mohammed’s mother, Hadiza Yerima. She was his rock, a woman whose compassion, tireless work ethic, and dedication to community service shaped Mohammed’s character and aspirations. By naming the farm after her, he sought to honor the values she instilled in him, ensuring they would guide every aspect of the business. Hayerma Farms stands as a beacon of excellence, producing high-quality agricultural products while championing environmental stewardship and fostering strong community ties. It’s a living reflection of the gratitude Mohammed holds for his parents’ legacy, woven into the fabric of the farm’s mission to serve and inspire.

Mohammed’s professional journey is a tapestry of experiences that have honed his leadership and fueled the growth of Hayerma Farms. As an entrepreneur and activist, he immersed himself in community initiatives, developing exceptional skills in communication, strategic planning, and coalition-building. Whether navigating complex systems or driving projects for the greater good, Mohammed learned to lead with purpose and adaptability. These skills proved invaluable when he founded Hayerma Farms, enabling him to assemble a dedicated team, make informed decisions, and steer the business toward innovation. His formal education in business, economics, and agriculture provided a strong foundation, but it was the hands-on lessons from his father’s farms that truly shaped his approach. Working the land, collaborating with fellow farmers, and engaging with industry experts and stakeholders gave Mohammed a practical, nuanced understanding of agriculture’s challenges and opportunities, equipping him to thrive in its ever-evolving landscape.

Mohammed’s passion for agriculture was born in the fields of his father’s farms, where he witnessed the transformative power of farming firsthand. Those early experiences left an indelible mark, showing him how agriculture could nourish communities, create jobs, and drive economic progress. Today, his drive comes from a deep desire to bolster food security, empower local farmers, and promote sustainable practices that protect the environment while improving livelihoods. To keep Hayerma Farms at the forefront of innovation, Mohammed actively seeks out new knowledge, engaging with industry leaders, attending workshops, and adopting cutting-edge technologies to enhance farming methods and product quality. His commitment to continuous learning ensures the farm remains dynamic and responsive to the needs of both the land and its people.

Hayerma Farms is built on a foundation of core values: integrity, innovation, and community. These principles guide every decision, from prioritizing soil health and efficient water use to fostering biodiversity and maintaining transparent, customer-focused interactions. Mohammed ensures these values are more than just words by regularly evaluating the farm’s operations to align with its mission. For example, sustainable practices like minimizing environmental impact and using eco-friendly techniques are non-negotiable, while customer relationships are nurtured through responsiveness and a commitment to delivering exceptional products. This dedication to quality and trust has earned Hayerma Farms a reputation for reliability and excellence.

What sets Hayerma Farms apart in Nigeria’s agricultural landscape is Mohammed’s holistic approach. His unwavering focus on sustainability, deep community engagement, and customer-centric ethos create a unique edge. By listening to customer feedback, innovating farming practices, and fostering strong community ties, Mohammed ensures the farm stands out as a leader. Yet, the journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Like many Nigerian farmers, Mohammed has grappled with challenges such as volatile market prices, security concerns, and environmental pressures. His response has been one of resilience: diversifying crops and operations, investing in sustainable techniques, and building partnerships with farmers, stakeholders, and government agencies. These experiences have taught him the critical importance of adaptability, strategic foresight, and collaboration, lessons that have strengthened Hayerma Farms and positioned it for long-term success.

Mohammed’s vision for Hayerma Farms is bold and far-reaching. He dreams of expanding operations to boost productivity, diversifying product offerings, and establishing the farm as a leading agricultural brand across Nigeria. To achieve this, he plans to invest in modern farming technologies, forge strategic partnerships with like-minded organizations, and develop a robust marketing strategy to reach new markets. Community engagement is central to his approach, with initiatives like social media campaigns, farm tours, and local events fostering trust and building a loyal customer base. One of Mohammed’s proudest moments was the 2025 dry season rice harvest, a landmark achievement that showcased the potential of sustainable farming. This success not only cemented Hayerma Farms’ reputation as a trusted supplier but also attracted new customers, marking a turning point in the farm’s growth.

Looking to the future, Mohammed is brimming with ideas. He’s exploring the introduction of new crop varieties and expanding livestock production to diversify the farm’s portfolio. Additionally, he’s planning a community outreach program to educate local farmers on sustainable practices, empowering them to thrive while strengthening the region’s agricultural ecosystem. These initiatives reflect his commitment to both innovation and community development, ensuring Hayerma Farms remains a force for positive change.

Beyond agriculture, Mohammed’s entrepreneurial spirit extends to other ventures that complement his work with Hayerma Farms. Through Hayerma Properties and Investment, he applies his expertise to drive growth in Nigeria’s real estate sector, leveraging insights from development and investment to create new opportunities. By the end of 2025, he plans to launch a media production company, a platform to share compelling stories, promote sustainable practices, and amplify the impact of Hayerma Farms and other initiatives. These ventures enrich his agricultural work, fostering cross-learning and innovation that strengthen his mission.

To aspiring agricultural entrepreneurs, Mohammed offers timeless advice: start small, prioritize quality, and stay true to your values while embracing innovation. He stresses the importance of building a strong network of mentors, peers, and customers, whose support and guidance can make all the difference. Mohammed Aminu Shettima’s journey with Hayerma Farms is a powerful testament to what’s possible when passion, resilience, and a commitment to community converge. Through his leadership, he’s not only cultivating crops but also sowing the seeds for a brighter, more sustainable future for Nigeria’s agricultural landscape.

From Bauchi to Beyond: Ameenatu Dambam’s Meens Incense, a Beacon of Cultural Pride

Ameenatu Dambam, a dynamic entrepreneur from Bauchi State, Nigeria, has woven an inspiring story of education, passion, and cultural pride into her remarkable journey. Born and raised in Bauchi, she is a devoted mother of two and a graduate of Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, where she earned a B.Tech in Biology Education. This academic foundation instilled in her a deep sense of discipline, research acumen, and leadership skills that continue to shape her entrepreneurial ventures. Ameenatu’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unyielding commitment to authenticity, driven by her love for tradition and her desire to create meaningful connections through her work.

Her entrepreneurial journey began in 2018 with a modest spice business, where she learned the ropes of commerce and customer engagement. Eager to explore new horizons, she later transitioned into selling ready-to-wear (RTW) clothing, showcasing her knack for identifying market needs. In 2019, after graduating from catering school, Ameenatu ventured into the food industry, further diversifying her entrepreneurial portfolio. Each step in her journey was marked by a willingness to learn, adapt, and embrace new challenges. However, it was during the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic that her most transformative venture, Meens Incense, came to life.

The idea for Meens Incense was sparked by Ameenatu’s lifelong passion for *turaren wuta*, the traditional incense deeply rooted in Northern Nigerian culture. Her love for its evocative scents was so profound that she would spend her last kobo to acquire them, cherishing the feelings of peace, nostalgia, and connection they brought. Inspired by her nickname "Meenah," she named her brand Meens Incense, a reflection of her personal bond with the product. The venture was born from a simple yet powerful thought: why not create a business around something she loved so deeply, ensuring she—and others—could always enjoy these cherished fragrances? Thus, Meens Incense was established, blending her passion for beautiful scents with her entrepreneurial spirit.

Meens Incense is far more than a business—it’s a celebration of culture, tradition, and emotional resonance. Each product is meticulously handcrafted using high-quality, clean ingredients, with scents carefully blended to evoke memories, comfort, and a profound sense of heritage. Ameenatu’s hands-on leadership is guided by core values of authenticity, quality, and creativity, ensuring that every detail, from the fragrance to the culturally inspired packaging, reflects the brand’s essence. Her background in biology education, while not directly tied to incense-making, shaped her mindset in profound ways. The discipline and curiosity she developed in her studies translate into her daily work, as she experiments with new scent blends, researches customer preferences, and continuously refines her offerings.

Starting Meens Incense was not without its challenges. As a new brand, earning customer trust was a significant hurdle, particularly in a market unfamiliar with her products. Early logistics issues, such as unreliable deliveries through transport parks, led to delays and affected customer satisfaction. Additionally, creating unique incense blends from scratch was a daunting task. Ameenatu overcame this by traveling to learn traditional *turaren wuta* techniques, investing time and resources to master the craft. Her persistence paid off, and through consistent quality, stronger delivery systems, and a robust online presence, she built a trustworthy brand. These challenges taught her invaluable lessons in patience, adaptability, and the importance of staying true to her vision, even when progress felt slow.

What sets Meens Incense apart is its deep personal and cultural connection, woven into every product. By blending time-honored *turaren wuta* techniques with modern fragrance trends, Ameenatu creates scents that are both nostalgic and contemporary. Her commitment to using clean, high-quality ingredients and presenting products in elegant, culturally inspired packaging ensures that Meens Incense stands out in a crowded market. Listening to her customers is at the heart of her innovation process. Their feedback drives improvements in scent blends, packaging, and new product lines, keeping the brand relevant and responsive. Ameenatu’s dedication to storytelling—sharing the heart and heritage behind Meens Incense—has fostered a loyal community that trusts not just the product but the values it represents.

A pivotal moment in her journey was the launch of her first signature incense blend, crafted after her travels to learn traditional methods. This scent, created entirely from scratch, was a true reflection of Meens Incense: handcrafted, rooted in culture, and infused with intention. The overwhelming response from customers, who connected not only with the fragrance but also with its story, marked a turning point. It solidified Meens Incense as a brand that resonates emotionally, building a strong identity and deepening trust within her growing community.

Beyond her practical experience, Ameenatu has enriched her entrepreneurial skills through various courses in marketing and business development. These have sharpened her approach to branding, customer relations, and product growth, enabling her to navigate the complexities of running a business with confidence. Her ability to blend formal education, self-taught skills, and cultural passion has made Meens Incense a unique and compelling brand.

Looking to the future, Ameenatu envisions Meens Incense as a leading African incense brand, celebrated not only in Nigeria but across the globe for its quality, creativity, and cultural significance. Her long-term goals include expanding her product line, enhancing packaging, and exploring wholesale and export opportunities to reach international markets. She is also committed to customer education, using storytelling and partnerships to share the rich tradition of *turaren wuta* in a modern, elegant way.

Exciting developments are on the horizon for Meens Incense. Ameenatu is working on a premium collection of scent blends inspired by Northern Nigerian elements like rain, sand, and spice, each designed to tell a unique story. Additionally, she plans to launch beautifully packaged gift sets for weddings and special occasions, alongside DIY incense kits and workshops to foster a deeper connection with the art of incense-making. Most thrilling of all, Meens Incense will soon open its first physical shop—a significant milestone that will allow customers to experience the brand’s essence in person. This space will embody the soul of Meens Incense, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its scents and stories.

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Ameenatu offers heartfelt advice drawn from her own journey: start with passion, stay consistent, and be patient. Building a brand like Meens Incense takes time, effort, and a willingness to learn from mistakes. She encourages authenticity, urging others to let their brand reflect their unique identity and values. In a niche market, she believes, uniqueness is a strength. Innovation, for Ameenatu, means staying curious, experimenting with new ideas, and growing without losing the heart of the brand. Above all, she emphasizes the importance of listening to customers and staying true to the “why” behind the business.

For Ameenatu, Meens Incense is more than a business—it’s a labor of love, built with deep intention and care. Her full focus remains on nurturing this brand, ensuring every decision aligns with its values of quality, authenticity, and emotional connection. Watching her idea evolve from a spark of passion into a product, and from a product into a brand that speaks for itself, has been a slow, challenging, but profoundly beautiful process. As she continues to grow Meens Incense, Ameenatu remains committed to creating scents that not only smell beautiful but also carry the weight of tradition, the warmth of home, and the power of connection.