From Microbiology to Master Baker: The Journey of Aliyu Abubakar

Aliyu Adobanyi Abubakar, the creative force behind Abubakery and Cake Studio, has carved a niche in Nigeria’s baking and pastry landscape through dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for the craft.

 

Early Life and Education

Hailing from Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State, Aliyu’s educational journey began at Deen Foundation Nursery and Primary School in Ekpan, Delta State. He continued to Seat of Wisdom Model School for his secondary education, obtaining his First School Leaving Certificate in 2010. Pursuing higher education, Aliyu earned a Bachelor of Technology in Microbiology from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, Niger State, in 2017. His commitment to service led him to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) program at the National Institute for Trypanosomiasis Research in Ungwan Rimi, Kaduna State.​

Journey into Baking

Aliyu’s foray into baking commenced during his second year at university, balancing academics with his burgeoning passion. His dedication saw him undertake his first official training in sugar flower artistry with Mrs. Afoke Osubor of The Wedding World, a mentor he had long admired. In 2019, he further honed his skills in a professional wedding cake and sugar craft course under the tutelage of Mrs. Bidemi Bidomwu Anslem of Cakes et Al in Lagos.​

 

Continuous Professional Development

Committed to mastering his craft, Aliyu pursued various specialized courses:​

• Sugar painting with Luma Cakes in Paris.​
• Dessert catering with Mrs. Laide Owoade of Cakes by La.​
• Professional baking with Mrs. Kate of Kawetildas Cakes.​
• Cheesecake techniques with Mrs. Chioma Mbama of Chipsy’s Oven.​
• Advanced sugar flower techniques with John Paul Ibekwe of Jaypee’s House of Cakes and Pastries.​

Abubakery and Cake Studio

As a seasoned baker and sugar artist, Aliyu established Abubakery and Cake Studio, offering a diverse range of courses tailored for beginners to advanced professionals. These include baking and decorating, pastry, dessert catering, sugar flowers, and advanced wedding cake courses, available in both private and group settings. To date, he has trained over 500 bakers, both domestically and internationally.​

Pioneering #AskOgaBaker

In recognition of his expertise and influence in the baking community, Aliyu was selected as the inaugural speaker for the #AskOgaBaker series, a live Instagram session designed to spotlight male figures in the baking industry. His participation set the tone for future sessions, offering insights into his journey and sharing valuable knowledge with aspiring bakers. This initiative not only highlighted his accomplishments but also emphasized the importance of mentorship and knowledge-sharing within the baking community.