Obehi Ekhomu, visionary force behind ONA Lagos and ONA CLOUD, is revolutionising the perception of Nigerian cuisine and spirits while championing local farmers and artisans. Raised across the United States, Nigeria, and South Africa, Ekhomu earned a Business Management and International Business degree from the University of Arizona, she honed her culinary skills at South Africa’s Capiscum culinary school.
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Take us through your growing up and your culinary journey.
Growing up between Nigeria, North America, and South Africa, my culinary journey began with a palate full of wonder. I savoured the flavours of each continent, from smokey jollof to BBQ ribs and fermented pickles. My gastronomic journey inspired me to specialise in fusion cuisine and molecular gastronomy, blending local ingredients with global techniques learned during my training in Pretoria, South Africa. As a chef who has both a deeply analytical mind and a foodie’s heart, I deconstruct flavours and reconstruct them into unforgettable dishes. And that is what I do at ONA Restaurant and ONA Cloud, where I’m not just the owner, but the executive chef, culinary storyteller, and experience curator.

You are keen on championing local farmers and artisans, how are you leading this cause?
At ONA, we are dedicated to celebrating the rich flavours and traditions of Nigeria. That is why we take great pride in sourcing our ingredients directly from local farms spanning Lagos to Jos. By building personal relationships with our farmers, we not only guarantee the freshest produce but also empower farming communities, fostering a genuine farm-to-table connection.

What stands your brand out and what major activities are you involved in?
We reinvent Nigerian cuisine with a modern flair, showcasing bold flavours and ingredients in innovative ways. Our curated menu experiences cater to each guest’s unique tastes, while our commitment to sustainability ensures a reduced carbon footprint. We delight in hosting intimate events, markets, and chef’s tables, complete with expert wine pairings. With a distinctive visual brand that echoes the chef’s personality and culinary style, we maintain a strong online presence and continually refresh our menus to reflect the seasons, trends, and creative spark. Through our efforts, we proudly contribute to the vibrant African culinary landscape.
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You have carved a niche in the food and beverage industry, how are you elevating local ingredients and delicacies?
We carefully examine every ingredient to discover which techniques honour its essence, expertly pairing African flavours with both local and global techniques to create a symphony of flavours and textures. Through ancient methods like fermentation, drying, salting, and smoking, we bring out the hidden depths of indigenous ingredients, elevating the unsung heroes of the African kitchen to new heights. Each dish weaves a tale of unity, celebrating the rich traditions of the continent. Our meticulously curated beverage programme showcases locally distilled African spirits, such as ogogoro and palm wine, sourced directly from distilleries across the continent. Additionally, we offer over 50 unique infusions, kombuchas, liqueurs, wines, and herb-infused gins, all crafted with love and care. These distinctive beverages embody the spirit of African craftsmanship, adding a delightful twist to the ONA experience.

How do you get inspired and stay motivated?
Food is my ultimate source of inspiration. When crafting flavours, I immerse myself in the intricacies of ingredients, adopting an ingredient-led approach that celebrates Nigerian staples and overlooked kitchen gems. My creative process begins with curiosity, drawing from childhood memories, emotional connections, cultural traditions, and culinary research. Then comes intuitively food pairing, I layer flavours, experiment, and balance textures, trusting my palate to guide me. My passion for food, learning, and hospitality drives me forward. I’m motivated by the opportunity to connect with others through authentic, community-building culinary experiences. Client feedback fuels my innovation, and I’m proud to stay true to my vision while positively impacting the local economy and Lagos’ culinary scene
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How can we get more women to become successful and rise to the top as you have done? What tips do you have for other women?
A good mentorship programme can propel aspiring female chefs forward. We can offer guidance, pair young talent with seasoned professionals, and host culinary classes, workshops, and seminars to share expertise. Providing work opportunities and hosting industry events fosters connection, collaboration, and growth. Partnering with companies that support women’s empowerment further amplifies our impact. While scholarships and grants can aid in culinary training and entrepreneurship, ultimate success hinges on passion, hard work, and tenacity. By developing skills, learning from mistakes, and focusing on quality and excellence, female chefs can create a lasting impact, drive industry growth, and pave the way for others to succeed in Nigeria’s culinary landscape.

How do you unwind?
As a recovering people pleaser, I have become a passionate self-care advocate. My nourishing routine includes barefoot nature walks, beach strolls, solo dance sessions, and quality time with my daughters and our emotional support cats. I also find solace in audiobooks, weaving raffia, and cultivating plants – which has grown into a passion over the past five years. I’ve become attuned to their needs and find joy in nurturing them. Consciously creating serene spaces and being present in the moment has become a priority. Through these practices, I have found a sense of calm and connection to my mind, body, and spirit.

What is your life mantra?
“I am the love I seek” My inner love is the greatest love I’ll ever know. By embracing this truth and intentionally validating my self-worth, I remember that home is not just a physical space, but a state of being. I welcome myself home, exactly as I am, to find peace, love, and acceptance within. While I’m eager to share love and amplify others’ light, I recall that I’m my own perfect companion when relationships come to an end. This reminder strengthens my connection with myself, affirming that I am enough, just as I am.
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