Nigerian Schoolteacher Leaves Classroom After 13 Years To Sell Suya In London

A Nigerian man, Kolawole Ajayi, has ignited widespread reactions on social media after disclosing that he quit his job as a nursery and primary school teacher in Nigeria to pursue a full-time career as a suya seller in London.

Ajayi’s story gained attention following a viral interview on TikTok by @Onijekujelondon, where he was seen preparing suya while recounting his transition from the classroom to entrepreneurship abroad.

In the interview, Ajayi disclosed that he spent 13 years working as a teacher in Nigeria while running a suya business as a side hustle.

He said he also explored other income streams, including YouTube content creation, catering and barbecue services.

According to him, financial realities ultimately influenced his decision to quit teaching.

“I was doing it for like 13 years as a side hustle. I was cooking, doing YouTube videos, catering for people, and doing barbecues.

"When my passive income became about half of my salary, I decided to leave my nursery job and focus on this full-time,” he said.

Ajayi explained that as the suya business expanded, it became more profitable and sustainable than his teaching job, prompting his full transition into entrepreneurship. 

He noted that the journey has not been without challenges, recalling incidents such as unfavourable weather conditions that disrupted his business, including a moment when strong winds scattered his suya pepper.

The viral video has generated mixed reactions online. While some users praised his courage and resilience, others expressed criticism.

One TikTok user, @MrsHil, claimed to have personal knowledge of Ajayi, writing, “He managed my children’s nursery. Nice to see him thriving.”

However, other commenters shared less favourable opinions. A business owner, Non Tarnish Jewelry Store, said they admired his YouTube content but described their personal interaction with him as disappointing.

Another user, @Venom, claimed Ajayi earned about £140 as a teacher in Nigeria, reigniting debate over teachers’ welfare and salaries in the country.

Some social media users also questioned the quality of his food, while others raised concerns about hygiene during the interview.