EVENT: FOUNDER OF POPULAR MAMA CASS RESTAURANTS, CHARIS ONABOWALE, TO THE BURIED THIS WEEKEND

Event Diary Lifestyle November 29, 2024

Mrs. Charis Grace Onabowale, the founder of the renowned Lagos eatery Mama Cass, has passed away at the age of 76. Born on March 28, 1948, Charis, of British descent, was married to Nigerian medical practitioner Dr. Tunde Onabowale. A mother of four—two sons and two daughters—Charis was known for her private nature, choosing to remain out of the spotlight despite her remarkable success.

Those who knew her closely speak highly of her humility and entrepreneurial spirit, qualities that positively influenced her children.

Her demise occurred on October 31, 2024, and she will be laid to rest this weekend. Burial activities began on Wednesday with a service of songs.

One of her last major celebrations was her 75th birthday in 2023.

The late Mrs. Onabowale opened the first Mama Cass restaurant on Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, in November 1983. The outlet introduced the brand “Mama Cass Cafeteria,” which later grew into a chain of about 14 quick-service restaurants in Lagos and expanded its operations to other parts of Nigeria, including Ogun, Edo, the FCT, and even the United Kingdom.