Early Life and Origin Roberta Edu, also known as Roberta Oyedokun, is a Nigerian technologist, digital media strategist, and entrepreneur. With a background in Network Engineering and a Master’s in Information Management Systems, Roberta has over 18 years of experience spanning technology, digital media, and business strategy. Her journey marked by tenacity and innovation, has seen her transition into a global business figure.
Professional Background and Career Roberta started her career in technology, excelling in roles around business process automation, cloud solutions, data analysis, and digital transformation. She built a strong reputation as an IT expert, brand consultant, and project manager before venturing into food innovation. Driven by a desire to have a larger social impact, she founded Moppet Foods, a company aimed at making healthy, natural baby foods more accessible.
She has also contributed to women’s empowerment and child nutrition advocacy as a Mandela Washington Fellow and founder of the “No Kid Hungry Outreach” organization, working to ensure Nigerian children have access to nutritious meals and education on healthy living.
The Birth of Moppet Foods Inspiration and Motivation Moppet Foods was born out of Roberta’s personal frustration as a mother seeking natural, chemical-free food for her child in Lagos. She often shares:
“From a mother’s kitchen in Lagos - concerned about chemical-laden baby foods, to the shelves of America’s largest retailer, Moppet’s journey embodies a new era of African excellence and global impact”.
Roberta’s vision was to bridge the gap between tradition and modern convenience, reviving the legacy of natural, home-cooked meals using local ingredients. Her approach upholds the belief that parents should not have to choose between what’s healthy and what’s easy for their children.
Business Growth and Success Roberta’s relentless commitment to food traceability, transparency, and quality is at the core of Moppet Foods. As she explains:
“Traceability is something that’s very important to me at Moppet Foods, and being a technologist has given me the superpower to integrate it into our operations…when you hold a pack of Moppet, we can trace the farm where all the ingredients came from…”.
Her innovative approach enabled Moppet to become the first Nigerian baby food brand to launch on shelves at Walmart USA, a significant milestone symbolizing African excellence on a global platform. She proudly declares:
“Our commitment to quality and nutrition aligns perfectly with the growing consumer demand for healthier eating choices. This is not just our win, it is Nigeria’s win. We are proving to the world that Africa can nourish its own and the world - ethically, sustainably, and proudly.”
Recent Developments
September 2024: Moppet Foods made a significant move by increasing the salaries of its employees in Lagos amidst economic challenges, demonstrating its commitment to its mission of providing decent jobs and strengthening communities.
August 2024: Roberta Edu-Oyedokun, CEO of Moppet Foods, attended and addressed participants at the Mamamoni CFYE Female Agent Network Program at Festival Hotel Conference Center, Lagos, focusing on empowering women alongside other esteemed leaders.
November 2024: Roberta Edu shared valuable insights on overcoming hardship and building value in business at a seminar in Lagos. Drawing from her own journey, she emphasized the importance of self-reliance, work ethic, and offering value over “sad stories” in the business world, inspiring aspiring entrepreneurs.
Social Impact and Advocacy Roberta has consistently used her platform to advocate for women’s empowerment in business. Reflecting on her own journey and her role as a Mandela Washington Fellow, she shared:
“Now, more than ever before, I am indebted to Africa to make a huge impact and give back to my community. My journey at the Mandela Washington Fellowship has emboldened and empowered me, igniting my vision to create opportunities where women have access to the funding, networks, and resources they need to grow their businesses or advance their careers. The mission is simple: an Africa where women thrive, lead, and break barriers.”
Leadership Philosophy and Personal Reflections Roberta frequently shares insights about her ethos in business, such as the importance of due diligence and integrity. On facing early temptations for rapid U.S. expansion, she recounted:
“In your quest to do business, expand, and penetrate the market, please do not close your eyes to red flags and don’t dabble in dirty waters knowingly or unknowingly… due diligence today prevents regrets tomorrow.”
Her focus on resilience, ethical leadership, and continuous innovation has inspired many entrepreneurs and positioned Moppet Foods as a beacon for African brands aspiring for global relevance.
Moppet Foods - Vision, Products, and Impact Company Vision Moppet Foods is committed to delivering all-natural, homemade cereals for babies and toddlers, crafted from locally sourced, organic crops. The philosophy is clear:
“We launched Moppet because we were fed up with the lack of fresh, natural and convenient children’s meal options… You shouldn’t have to choose between what’s healthy for your kiddo and what’s easy for you.”
Product Quality and Operations
No chemicals or additives: “We are the only factory where you won’t find any chemicals or acids, just pure organic produce, tenderly cooked for your children.”
Traceable supply chain: Every product’s journey from farm to shelf is documented, assuring parents of quality and transparency.
Sustainable farming: Strong partnerships with small-scale local farmers support both the Nigerian agricultural sector and the broader vision of sustainable food systems.
Global Achievements
First Nigerian children’s food brand at Walmart USA
Providing nutritious food options for thousands of children beyond Africa’s borders
Setting new standards in African consumer goods for nutrition and safety
Quotes from Social Media
“Mom | Wife | Technology | Data | Innovation & Digital Transformation | Founder @moppetfoods. The world will celebrate your glory!”
“We’ve gone from feeding one child in Lagos State, Nigeria, to nourishing thousands of children across continents. And we’re just getting started.”
“Everything has prepared me for this day…from farm to table, we ensure that the meals on your shelf are pure, wholesome, and easy to prepare, giving every child and family the nourishment they deserve.”
Roberta Edu stands out as a visionary bridging tech innovation and African heritage to create global impact. Her journey from a concerned mother in Lagos to a globally celebrated food entrepreneur is a testament to her resilience, purpose, and commitment to ethical business. She serves as an inspiration to women, entrepreneurs, and advocates of sustainable food systems, demonstrating that with integrity, vision, and tenacity, African excellence can reach every table and child in the world.