The proprietor of Kali’s Kitchen and Bar, Obesi Otasome Benjamin, has said the scarcity of decent hospitality and relaxation spots in Yenagoa motivated him to venture into the business.
Located at Okaka Junction along Isaac Boro Express Road, Yenagoa, the establishment provides a setting where residents and visitors can relax, interact and discuss business and other issues in a conducive environment.
Speaking exclusively to the Niger Delta Herald, Benjamin said his desire was to create a comfortable hangout where people could meet and exchange ideas without the distraction of loud music.
According to him, the business is gradually achieving the purpose for which it was established, noting that customer patronage and feedback have encouraged him to sustain the venture.
He said Kali’s Kitchen offers a variety of indigenous cuisines, local delicacies and other meals, while the bar provides different categories of drinks to meet the preferences and satisfaction of customers.
Benjamin further explained that the desire to create employment opportunities for youths was another major factor that encouraged him to establish the business.
He urged young people to believe in themselves, develop their skills and shun social vices, stressing that entrepreneurship could provide opportunities for personal development and contribute to the growth of the local economy.
On security, Benjamin commended the Bayelsa State Government under Governor Douye Diri for what he described as the peaceful environment currently being enjoyed in the state.
“I thank the Governor, Senator Douye Diri, for the peace we are enjoying today,” he said.
He disclosed that he intends to expand Kali’s Kitchen and Bar to other local government areas of Bayelsa State, adding that the expansion would create more employment opportunities and extend the services of the business to more communities.
Benjamin also encouraged Bayelsans to embrace private enterprise and reduce their dependence on government employment and support.
He said the business was established through personal resources without obtaining a bank loan or receiving financial assistance from the government.
“I never took any loan from any bank, and I did not receive any support from the government. I established the business with my own sweat,” he said.
He expressed confidence in the future of the hospitality business and urged other aspiring entrepreneurs to start small, remain committed and gradually build their businesses rather than wait solely for government opportunities.