10 lessons from Wale Tinubu

If you were to ask Group Chief Executive of Oando PLC, Africa’s leading indigenous energy solutions provider listed on the Nigerian and Johannesburg Stock exchanges, Mr Wale Tinubu, how to build a successful business, he would probably say the first thing you need is the ‘can do spirit.’

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He'll likely go a step further to instil it into you that “someone is going to trust you, but you should never doubt yourself and your capacities. Everyone is going to laugh at you, but the same people who laughed at you will tomorrow revere you for being able to be true to your self-worth by saying ‘I can make a difference.’”
Then he’d probably tell you to accept the fact that you’re never going to have the capital to start up your business, therefore, you’ll need to use unconventional means to raise it.
These principles helped Tinubu 20 odd years ago when he set up his mind to go into a private business and other entrepreneurs have sworn by these principles to work.
Start where you are. Ask an average Nigerian entrepreneur what his/her biggest challenge is and one would hear “start-up capital.” Tinubu’s answer to that is: “You’re never going to have enough capital, so forget about it. You’re going to need to be innovative.”
He said raising capital to do a business would always be a challenge to African entrepreneur, but it doesn’t mean you can’t achieve your goals.
“The reason why an entrepreneur succeeds is that he sees value where it exists or it is ignored and you take the resources you have, however limited, and you start to build that value. Most of the successful business in the world today started in the garage. I started in the garage with no capital.” He said he started off with borrowed office supplies from his father’s firm, borrowed telephone from the family house and N2,000 from his mother.
While speaking with a group of Global Shapers in Abuja a couple of months ago, Tinubu also advised that you’ve got to take it slow, one step at a time. “You’re never going to achieve all in one day,” but you’ve got to keep moving. “There’s something about business: if you’re not moving, then you’re failing. You’ve got to keep moving,” he said.
Create a plan.  Tinubu believes in measurable result. Therefore, he creates a plan “that says this is what I want to achieve, this is how I want to achieve it, this is the timeframe for doing it. So, we send time researching how is it done,” he added.
Create a team of people who could do it well. For him, it was looking for people within the organisation who had capacity to deliver and who were passionate, of course.
Partnerships, he said are very important to successful ventures. “We would go round the world to look for partners that will share in our experience and support,” he said of his company, adding that first, create your structure and then back it up with your money.” He said this shows how serious you are at succeeding. “You will always have doubts, but do not allow your doubts to overwhelm your desire to achieve great things. Get involved in whatever it is you want to do,” he added.
There will always be an opportunity and when it does come, jump on it and then approach it  with all seriousness as the first one, he advised.
A 2012 Venture Capital report had that Tinubu, even as a student, was always on the look-out for new ways to make money. It was said that he used his school fees as working capital to travel to Europe for the purpose of purchasing luxury German cars to resell. He would drive the car through Europe and back to London, while trying his best to sell it off for a profit on the way, it was said. It was also said that Tinubu “repeated this operation about four to five times, and each time he netted a profit of about $5,000. He was only 21, but he was building the foundation for a future in deal making,” the report said.
Tinubu, while fielding questions from Cable Network News (CNN) Zain Verjee on African Voices, also pointed out that credibility and integrity are entrepreneur’s biggest asset, if he/she were to be successful.
Credibility and integrity are his company’s biggest selling point, as he put it. “When you start something and you said we want to do it properly, you want to do in it world class fashion, it sticks to your mind. If we said we’d deliver to you at 3 o’clock, the ship will be there to deliver to you, to the rigs, to the wet woods, as at when we said we would. And every time we did that, they’ll say to us "we never knew it was possible to receive your fuel at the time you booked it,” he said, to reinforce his point.
He told the Global Shapers that “when the opportunity comes, credibility and integrity are absolutely important.” He told the story of how, when he was starting up, he was happy someone would even consider giving him a loan and whenever it was time to pay up, he would be the first person seen to pay every month.
“I was so happy anybody would lend me money and I was the first guy to wake up in the morning to pay. I ran there out of respect because somebody trusted me and I noticed that every single time I couldn’t pay up, I was given more money. They say “look, don’t worry, here’s more cash and I thought is there something that I am doing wrong?” he said, smiling.
“After a while, you’ll learn to trust your gut feelings, trust your instincts, and use them to drive yourself. Have enough confidence in yourself to really push yourself to the end,” he also advised.
Aspire for more. In spite of everything he has done and accomplished, he still feels that moment of accomplishment has not arrived yet. “I am far from satisfied. I still think that we’ve only just scratched the surface,” he said in the African Voices interview.
Accept that challenges are part of your journey. “I like challenges. I like to think we can do anything we set our minds on to do. I am also very inspired by the power of people. And we’ve seen it happen. And we invariably succeeded all because we accept that there are bumps along the way,” he said.
Take risks. It’s part of being a successful entrepreneur. At 26, he took what some might call the biggest risk of his life. He took $100,000 loan which attracted 10 per cent interest per month.
Take care of the environment you’re doing business in. “If you can build a big company, surely you can build a bigger social net worth. Do something out of love,” he said. Add that to investing in indigenous expatriates.
Yes, if you asked Wale Tinubu how he would advise young entrepreneurs, he’d say first of all, you need the fundamental belief that you can do it – the can do spirit; second, build a very strong partnership and third, be persistent, never give up. “There’s going to be lots of obstacles to be faced, just view them as learning opportunities and never give up. Trust yourself, trust your gut feelings and use it,” he’d say.
The man Wale Tinubu
Wale Tinubu led Oando as the African company to achieve a secondary listing on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, achieving another milestone with the completion of the Canadian oil & Gas firms, Exile Resource, which gave birth to Oando Energy Resources (OER).
He is currently most recognised for turning a mono-product called Oando Marketing into an energy giant with investments across the energy chain.
Just this month, his company announced that it completed acquisition of Medal Oil and that it reduced debt through conversion of Oando PLC loan to equity. It also announced that by the end of the month, it would acquire the $1.65 billion ConocoPhillips.
He started his career with the family’s law firm, K.O. Tinubu & Co. where he worked on corporate and petroleum law assignments.
He was selected as a Young Global Leader (Business) in 2007 by the World Economic Forum and Member of the Global Agenda Council for the future of Africa in 2008 also by the World Economic Forum. He was named one of the Top 10 CEOs in the world by ASKMEN magazine.
In 2010, he won the Africa’s ‘Business Leader of the Year’ award by the African Business Magazine and the Commonwealth Business Council on the basis of his contributions to the development of the African oil and gas industry. In 2011, he was awarded the ‘African Business Leader of the Year’ by Africa Investor.
He has also been nominated for the Africa Investor Capital Markets Personality of the Year for the Ai Institutional Investment Summit- Index Awards shortlist 2012.
Tinubu has a Bachelor’s Degree in Law (LLB) from the University of Liverpool, England, in 1988 and a Master’s degree in Law (LLM) from the London School of Economics where he specialised in International Finance and Shipping in 1989.

Kase Lawal: Nigerian-born oil baron who controls 6 oil blocs in Kenya

Ronke Sanya writes on Kase Lawal, an Ibadan- born businessman, who has accomplished what many United States of America (USA) citizens can only fantasise.
A typical Nigerian achiever, who can easily be described as a perfect example of ‘a dream come true’ is Mr Kase Lawal, a business owner and employer in the United States.
Lawal started his sojourn in the United States of America some years back as an undergraduate, just like every other Nigerian foreign student, but today, he is a bundle of success, from whom many now tap from.
Perhaps he had a foreknowledge that he was destined to become great abroad, the reason as a young secondary school leaver, he was able to successfully convince his father to send him abroad for university education.
Now, Lawal heads a conglomerate of companies worth billions of dollars and was recently awarded six oil blocs in Kenya.
Born June 30, 1954, in Ibadan, Lawal obtained his Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in Chemistry from Texas Southern University in 1976, and his MBA from Prairie View A&M University, Texas, in 1978.
He was also awarded an honorary doctorate in philosophy from Fort Valley State University.
Lawal today presides over many companies with special interest in energy and oil exploration. Presently, he is the chairman and chief executive officer of CAMAC International Corporation, the chairman and chief executive officer of CAMAC Energy Inc, and chairman of Allied Energy Corporation in Houston, Texas.
He is also the chairman and chief executive officer, CAMAC Holdings; vice chairman, Port of Houston Authority Commission. He serves as a member of the board of directors and is a significant shareholder in Unity National Bank, the only federally insured and licensed African-American-owned bank in Texas.
US President, Barrack Obama, appointed Lawal to a distinguished advisory panel on international trade policy, making him one of 30 appointees to the Advisory Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiation (ACTPN) announced by the White House.
He has guided his oil exploration, refining and trading company to international prominence. Lawal’s expertise in the field of international energy led to his appointments by the Clinton, Bush and Obama administrations to the United States Trade Advisory Committee on Africa, where he was responsible for crafting African trade policy.
Regarding the seaport, Lawal was appointed by former Houston Mayor, Lee P. Brown, to serve as a port commissioner on the Port of Houston Authority Board, while in 2001, he became the commission’s first vice chairman.
He is the chair of the port’s Small Business Development Committee and a member of the board of directors for the Port of Houston Authority International Corporation, both programmes that he helped establish. The Port of Houston ranks very high in the United States of America and it is said to be the sixth largest port in the world.
A leading US magazine, Black Enterprise, voted Lawal’s business number one among black Americans, and again as the company of the year with revenue above $1.4billion in 2005.
Lawal, who attaches a strong attachment and value to family, is married to Eileen with four children, two boys and two girls, and is based in Houston. He and his wife are founding members of major charities in both Houston and Nigeria, among which is a UNICEF initiative that they co-manage to raise $300 million to fight HIV/AIDS.

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His company, an oil exploration and energy development corporation, does business not only in Nigeria and the United States of America, but also in places like Venezuela.

CHAMILLIONAIRE, Nigerian-born Grammy winning rapper worth $15,000,000 

 

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Chamillionaire is a multiple award winning hip hop rapper, born to a Nigerian father,  ‘RONKE SANYA reports about his feat in the American music industry and more.
Hakeem Seriki, better known by his stage name Chamillionaire, is a hip hop rapper, entrepreneur, singer, music executive, songwriter and actor from Houston, Texas, United Sates, with an estimated net worth of $15,000,000.
The CEO of Chamillitary Entertainment, he was born on November 28, 1979, in Washington. D. C.,  to Nigerian parents, his father, a Muslim, from Ogun State and mother, a Christian, from Delta State. He moved to Houston, Texas, at the age of four. Chamillionaire’s parents separated in his early teenage years and he embraced rap and other forms of secular music, which his parents had highly opposed, settling into an inner-city neighbourhood in North West Houston.
He has a younger brother, Rasaq Seriki, who is also an occasional rapper and a past member of The Colour Changin’ Click. A father of one, he once anoounced through a video log that he has a son, born on May 14, 2010, adding that his son’s name, Xavier, means ‘new house’.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and member of rap group, The Colour Changin’ Click featuring rappers such as Paul Wall, Yung Ro, 50/50 Twin, Rasaq Seriki and Lew Hawk, his stage name Chamillionaire, is a portmanteau of ‘chameleon’ and ‘millionaire’.
 A Los Angeles Lakers fan, he stated that he was inspired by local rap acts such as The Geto Boys, 8 Ball & MJG, and UGK, as well as other national acts such as N.W.A. and Public Enemy. At a tender age, Chamillionaire, along with fellow rap music artiste and childhood friend, Paul Wall, had decided to make music their careers.
He began his career independently with local releases in 2002, including collaboration album Get Ya Mind Correct with fellow Houston rapper and childhood friend, Paul Wall. He signed to Universal Records in 2005 and released his first album, The Sound of Revenge. It included hit singles, Turn It Up featuring Lil’ Flip and the Grammy-winning hit, Ridin featuring Krayzie Bone of Bone Thugs-n-Harmony. The album was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
His second album, Ultimate Victory followed in 2007 with singles including Hip Hop Police and The Evening news, the album was notable for not containing any profanity. Chamillionaire is also known for his most anticipated Mixtape Messiah series, which came to a halt in 2009.
In 2006, Chamillionaire received 10 nominations and won four, including Rookie of the Year and Viewer’s Choice Award (Wireless People’s Champ) at the BET Hip Hop Awards and American Music Awards. He also won Best Rap Video at the MTV Video Music Awards
In 2007, he received four nominations and won one, Best Rap Performance by a ‘Duo or Group’ at the Grammy Awards and in 2008 received two nominations and won one, Best Mixtape/Street Album at the Ozone Awards. Overall, Chamillionaire has won six awards from 16 nominations.
In early 2011, he left Universal Records, which would lead to his would-be third album, Venom, to go unreleased. Chamillionaire released his first independent extended play, Ammunition in March, 2012 and was noted as his first major release since he left the label. Chamillionaire announced that he is working on another EP, entitled Elevate, this was released on February 17, 2013 stating that it is going to be one of several to be released before his third studio album, and shortly after his third EP Reignfall was released on 23 July, 2013. He is currently working on his third studio album; Poison.

I was ambitious from childhood-Kola Aluko •On Forbes radar list of Africa’s 50 richest 

 

RONKE SANYA looks at the  life of Kola Aluko, a Nigerian oil, gas and aviation tycoon.
Background
Kolawole Aluko was born in Lagos on 20 October, 1969. His mother is a pharmacist while his father, Chief Akanni Aluko, is a high chief in Ilesa, Osun State. He attended Igbobi College in Lagos. Speaking about his growing up years, Aluko was once quoted, “I was from an early age very ambitious and I always knew I wanted to work for myself.”

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Business career
Recently, according to Forbes, Seven Energy, a leading energy firm which was co-founded by Aluko, closed a financing round that now values the company at nearly $1 billion. Temasek, the investment holding company owned by the government of Singapore, made a $150 million investment in Seven Energy, a privately-held Nigerian oil and gas exploration company that Aluko co-founded in 2004.
In a press release issued by Seven Energy, the company said it plans to use the funds to develop its growing portfolio of assets in Nigeria.
Aluko founded oil exploration company, Exoro Energy, in 2004 after a successful career in oil trading. That same year, Exoro partnered with Energy Ventures International, a Nigerian subsidiary of Weatherford, a Swiss-based oil and gas servicing firm, to market the latter’s exploration and production technology in Nigeria. Energy Ventures subsequently changed its name to Seven Energy, and in 2007, Aluko led a management buy-out of Seven Energy. The company began acquiring Nigerian oil producing assets in 2009. Aluko left the company’s management and board in 2011.
According to Forbes, his stake in Seven Energy is not his largest asset. This is his 50% stake in Atlantic Energy, a private upstream Oil and Gas Company that has a very lucrative, Strategic Alliance Agreement (SAA) with the government-owned Nigerian Petroleum Development Company (NPDC) in relation to four oil-producing oil blocks – OML 26, OML 30, OML 34 and OML 42. NPDC, which is the operating arm of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), owns 55 per cent in each of these oil blocks, which collectively produce an average of over 108,000 barrels of oil equivalent per day. Under the agreement Atlantic Energy currently has with NPDC, Atlantic Energy funds NPDC’s share of the operating costs of the four oil blocks by paying the latter’s entire cash obligations. In return for funding NPDC’s operating and capital activity costs, Atlantic Energy gets back costs, meaning that NPDC pays back to Atlantic Energy the initial money used to finance the operating costs, and also earns 35 per cent of profits on the oil blocks.
Quoting its website, Forbes said Atlantic Energy has spent a little over $500 million on the oil blocks over the last two years. The company is believed to have earned hundreds of millions of dollars from its share of profits during the period. The government-owned NPDC has not reported its share of the profits on the oil blocks it co-owns.
“As a result of his various stakes in oil companies and the profits they have thrown off, Kola Aluko has been on the radar for the annual Forbes Billionaires List and Forbes list of Africa’s 50 Richest.
“Aluko, who has recently been in the media spotlight for his closeness to stars like Naomi Campbell and Hollywood A-lister Leonardo DiCaprio, is also a co-founder of the Made In Africa Foundation, a UK nonprofit that supports and funds master plans and feasibility studies for large scale infrastructure projects across Africa. Avenue in New York and other homes in Abuja and Geneva, Switzerland,” said Forbes.
His passion for race cars
According to a post on Nigeriavillagesquare, “Aluko is a passionate motor sports enthusiast. He races and competes in conjunction with Swiss-based Ferrari team, Kessel Racing.
Aluko often cites the racing car driver, Ayrton Senna, as a main inspiration, drawing parallels between racing, business and life in general. When asked on his advice for young entrepreneurs, Aluko said: “The key is focus, focus and again focus. Identify the things you are good at, your strengths, and get to work on your weaknesses. The racing car driver, Ayrton Senna, a man who inspired me greatly, is a good example. Senna was an exceptional driver, however, initially he was terrible in wet conditions, compared to racing in the dry, but he identified his weakness, and so everytime it rained, he jumped into his car, and practised, practised, practised, until he arguably became the best wet weather driver in history.”
His love for mansions and yachts
“In June 2012, he was reported to have purchased two luxury ultra-modern estates in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, California for $40 million.
He owns a 65-metre Galactica Star Yacht, which is said to cost above $50 million and he lives in his $40 million home in Los Angeles and $8.6 million duplex on Fifth Avenue in New York and other homes in Abuja and Geneva, Swit

Ejike Ugboaja: UK-based Nigerian basketballer, CEO •Says life is all about helping others 

 

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Ejike Christopher Ugboaja is a member of the Nigerian national basketball team. He is also  the Chief Executive Officer,  Ejike Ugboaja Foundation, a humanitarian project that gives the younger generations the opportunity to achieve their academic and athletic dreams, both home and abroad. He spoke with Doyin Adeoye about his career and foundation, among other things.

How was growing up?I had a very terrible childhood and because I was not from a very rich family, growing up for me was really rough and tough. But when I made it, I didn’t want things to be that tough for other people, that is why I decided to come up with something that would help achieve that. I wanted youths with talents to have better education while they follow their dreams and it has been great so far.

When did your foray into sports begin?I grew up in a family that loves sports. My mother used to play football professionally, so I used to go with her for trainings then. So after a while, with my height, I decided to start playing basketball.

What is the Ejike Ugboaja Foundation all about?The Foundation started in 2007 and we have been helping a lot of people and impacting a lot of lives. The project is about encouraging youths to get educated while they live their sporting dream. Basically it is about giving sportsmen the opportunity to go to school.

What brought about the project?Being trained from Nigeria and being in the Nigerian league when I was drafted, I felt the need to give back to the society I left behind. The goal is to offer young children the opportunity I never had, but always wanted when I was their age. 

How has the journey been so far as a young player?The journey has been so smooth and successful, I’ve played in Spain, Turkey, Ukraine, Poland and many other countries, so it has been the grace of God and a lot of determination and dedication.

Having come from such background and being here today, what were the hurdles you had to cross back then?It was really bad, it was about not eating the proper food, not having good shoes to wear, not having money to do whatever I wanted to do and not having money for transportation to go for trainings. It was sad not having everything I wanted, but looking back today, I thank God and that is why I am giving a lot of opportunities to others to be able to have what they want.

Many people let their backgrounds influence their focus, what kept you going?Basically, many people are always about themselves, all they think about is themselves, they don’t care about helping others, especially having experienced the same thing. They feel others have to go through all they did to achieve as well. This is not me, I am all about giving back to the people.

Life is all about helping others, if you can help others, do so, not because of what you will get in return. Because I realised that a lot of Nigerians won’t help or do something for you if they won’t get anything in return. Even the Bible preaches it, give to people, not because you want the glory to come to you, but for God to bless you in return. God gave you life and everything you own, whatever you have, God made it happen, so give back.

What are the criteria to be a part of the programme?The individual has to have transcripts from their school, that is very important, because it is the major link in getting a scholarship, and it is open to people between 10 and 25.

It is a huge project, where do you get the financial support?Basically, all is coming from me, so I am appealing to well  meaning Nigerians to come and assist, because these are our children, we need to invest in them to take corruption off the streets.

Our help goes a long way. Once they go to school, their future will be secured and once the future is secured and they see that people care about them, they will not be corrupt, they will believe in themselves and that is why I am begging Nigerians to come and assist them and let us do it together. Unfortunately, travelling out there, many people don’t trust Nigerians, once you say that you are from Nigeria, you will be questioned, but that can be changed by changing and educating our youths.

You were the first player to be drafted from Africa by Cleveland Cavaliers in 2006, what gave the edge and how was the experience?It took dedications and I also had the privilege to partake in competitions such as world championships and the commonwealth games that put me out there and because other people were watching, it was a platform for me to showcase my talent and that  gave it to me. And also God made it possible for me.

What has been the achievement of the foundation so far?Many lives have been changed through the foundation. Thousands of people have been influenced positively because they are going to school and living their dreams. In the next years, they can come out and lead the nation with a good mindset. A lot of the boys are graduating from the best universities abroad and most of them are going into NBA, which is their aim.

Do you have affiliations with these higher institutions abroad?Yes, I have affiliations with some and others, I have to pay, but the likes of University of Miami, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Greenforest High School and many others, offer scholarships.

Educational backgroundI attended Government College, Kaduna, Kaduna Polytechnic and the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where I studied Economics.

You grew up in the North,  What is your view about the crisis there now?Sincerely, I wish everything will be resolved soon.

How do you think  basketball can be improved in Nigeria They are already improving, although they still need other facilities to get more improved, as well as more sponsors. Good coaches need to go for coaching courses to improve, as this will also tell on the players.

Words for aspiring  sports persons?They need to work hard and believe in their games and be humble.

I was the youngest, weakest in my class, now I’m on top —Daniel Adeyilaka, Nigeria’s youngest pilot

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RONKE SANYA looks at how young Daniel Adeyileka, aiming for the moon, despite the odd of once being the last in his class, is now a first officer and, according to Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), the youngest pilot in Nigeria.
Daniel Adeyileka is an example of one who is determined to make it to the top, despite all odds.
Born to the Adeyileka family on February 6, 1995 in Newcastle, England, he had his primary and secondary school education in Scotland and spent most of his life in various countries including United Kingdom, Indonesia and Scotland.
He had his elementary education in Rose Bank Primary School, Nairn, Scotland, and then moved to Grantown Grammar School, also in Scotland, where he completed his secondary school.
 In 2008, he came back to Nigeria for his A-levels, enrolled into Avicenna International School, Ikeja, Government Reserved Area (GRA) and graduated in 2009. He equally obtained his A-Levels in Greenville School, GRA and immediately proceeded to the flying school in the US
When he proceeded to Delta Flight School in Texas, Dallas, to obtain his Private Pilot License (PPL) and International General Certificate of Secondary Education, it was not a bed of roses.
Speaking on his experience, he said: “I did my flight training in Texas for nine months. I knew I went there for a reason and not to joke. I needed all the concentration. I went to school from Monday to Sunday. My Private Pilot License (PPL) was for one and a half months and my International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) was for three years.”
Speaking on how his age was a barrier at a point, Adeyileka said: “I was the youngest in my class and got along with everybody but there was a time I could not write certain exams due to my age because there were restrictions. I was asked to wait until I turned 18 years before I could do my commercial, so I was just reading all through those periods.”
Adeyileka who was faced with several other challenges apart from his age, added that: “The challenge basically was when I was sent to Amsterdam for my Type Rating, it was really the toughest period because it was not an easy task. I actually thought I was going to fail because I was the weakest in the class at the beginning but I came top of the class at the end. I kept telling myself, I can do it. God really saw me through. The exercise lasted for one month.”
Adeyileka, 19, is the son of the acting director general of Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). His records supersede that of Favour Odozor, 20-year-old Nigerian, who emerged as the youngest with the Commercial Pilot Licence (CPL) in both Nigeria and South Africa, in April, last year.
In the cockpit, Adeyileka is presently a first officer but on a salary level of a second officer. He is type rated on Boeing 737 600 series to 900 series aircraft and was rated in July, this year by the NCAA as the youngest pilot in Nigeria.

                          Breed dogs, make millions

I built my house within a year from dog business —Segun Agbedeyi, MD/CEO, Pheemyan Concept, Ogun State
PASSION for keeping pets, especially dogs, propelled Segun Agbedeyi, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Pheemyan Concept, Daud Aribidesi Street, Magboro Akeran Estate, Ogun State into breeding dogs.
The graduate of Mass Communication from The Polytechnic, Ibadan explained that: “I bought a Boerbol puppy, a South African specie in 2007 for N65,000 through one of my area younger brothers. I put the dog in thrust of someone, but later took it back when I could not afford paying the dog breeder any longer, and continue taking care of the dog until it got to puberty stage and gave birth.”
Agbedeyi, who after his NYSC worked as a journalist at Financial Standard, before venturing into marketing of tires and breeding of dogs, on part time basis, disclosed that he used the money realised from the sales of the first set of puppies, to sponsor his wedding, adding that, “I built my house from the sales I made from the second set of puppies of the dog, though I already had a piece of land.”
The Pheemyan Concept boss, who also deals in sales of dog feeds and owns seven various species of dogs, which include Boerbol, Hoodle Poodle, Rottweilers  and Dobermans, among others, noted that dog breeding business is capable of making a pauper rich within a year.
According to him, “You can make enough to buy a puppy of one of the sort-out dog breeds from helping dog owners feed and breed their dogs, while you can mate your female dog with your client dog for almost free, though you will give him/her one puppy when your dog gives birth.”
Agbedeyi added that, “I have made so much from dog breeding that I can describe the business as a blessing for me and a money-spinning business for any pet-loving person, who has a keen passion for dog and has good level of patience. Having at least two female dogs is a money-ritual as it will net millionaires into your bank account within a year.
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Breed dogs, make millions
A dog could be said to be the most preferred pet among so many others. The reason for its preference cannot be unconnected with  its wide variety of roles, duties and significance to man, which include security of your house, companion purposes and sending on errands, among others.
Who can do the business?
Dog breeding business requires a significant investment of time and efforts as well as money, licensing and veterinarian care. Hence, whoever wants to explore the business must have enough time for the dog and be passionate about keeping it.
Patience is another key quality of any successful dog breeder, as dogs could be naughty a times, while a keen passion for dog cannot be over-emphasised if one would record success in the business.
Start-up capital
You can start the business with little or no capital. What you need is just the will to succeed and a passion for dogs, as you can start with a local dog which you can get for free from friends or family, groom it and cross it with foreign specie dog, which has better financial value.

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But if you really want to make a business in dog breeding and make cool millions within a year, then you will need a minimum of N120,000 as start-up capital, though at installment. This will get you at least one foreign female puppy for between N60,000 and N70,000; about N20,000 to feed the puppy until it gets to puberty; about N5,000 for drugs and injections; N10,000 to mate the dog and N20,000 to take care of feeding and drugs for the puppies and the mother before the puppies are waned.
If you can afford it from the outset, you will need to build a house for the dog, where you keep and feed the dog, while you can buy like two female puppies, which will enable you make cool returns on your investment within a very short period.
Learning
Learning is imperative to being successful in dog breeding business. It will enlighten you about how to take care of the puppy(ies) till puberty stage and to reduce mortality rate in the new born puppies, among other necessary knowledge about dog breeding.
To get the basics in the business is no big deal, as you can get training on breeding dogs from friends and family members who keep dogs, while getting professional training about the business from experts or veterinary doctors would cost you little, starting from N5,000, depending on your tutor and area.
Research and planning
Study and decide what type of dog(s) you want to breed. I doubt if you will be able to satisfy all the niches within the dog business. You can either choose to breed pet dogs or security dogs; the choice is absolutely yours. But you must bear in mind that the way pet dogs are handled and trained is different from the way security dogs are trained. Also, the type of dogs you breed should be determined by your environment and market demand.
Research the laws in your area. You may need a special license or permit to breed dogs or keep more than a few on your property. Some jurisdictions may also require you to register as a kennel. Determine if you need zoning approval if your home or property isn’t registered for business use.
Research and study. To succeed as a dog breeder, it is very much important that you have the knowledge of different breeds of dogs, their genetics, history, characters, pedigrees and temperament.
Decide whether you will purchase female or male dogs or both. If you have both, you won’t have to worry about negotiating contracts with other breeders or dealing with the shipment of semen. If you maintain male dogs, you won’t have the monetary responsibility and time commitment of caring for a pregnant female and eventually, her puppies. You may, however, enjoy owning females, watching them give birth and caring for their puppies.
Purchase your dogs, choosing those that meet breed standard. Mature dogs that have won championships in shows and are free of health problems make good picks. If you are raising puppies, have them compete in shows as they mature. Dogs that win championships may be more in demand for breeding.
Choose mates for your dogs carefully. They should be even-tempered, healthy and of complementary size. If you own dogs of both genders, finding mates probably won’t be an issue. If you have to find a mate, breeding newsletters, magazines and websites, and expert advice can be helpful resources.
Create a contract to use with other breeders. It should include terms for dealing with failure to conceive right away and specify the number of puppies each person will receive.
Cost and potential earning
You cost will be determined by the kind of puppy you purchased and the feeds you give your dog(s). It also includes what you spend feeding, medication, mating, and the care for the mother dog during pregnancy and the puppies she gives birth to before they are waned after two weeks.
You can feed your dog with dog feeds or indomine noodles, with palm oil and fish or meat.
Your potential earning will be determined by the breed of your dog, your environment and the buyer. By and large, you can sell a puppy for between N80,000 and N250,000 and even above. Note that female dogs are more expensive than the male. Meanwhile, your dog can give birth to at least four puppies at her first birth, which will earn you minimum of N320,000 and you can get that twice in a year.
If you specialise in breeding male dog, you will spend lesser money taking care of the dog, while you can make between N10,000 and N50,000 whenever your dog mates with a female dog, depending on the specie of your male dog. Additionally, you will be given a dog when the female dog gives birth. In fact, you have the liberty to choose first from the puppies of the female dog.
Marketing
Regardless of the type of dogs you want to breed for sale, there is surely a market for it. If you are interested in breeding pet dogs such as the Hoodle Poodle, Chihuahua, etc; there is a market for it especially for women. And if you choose to breed guard dogs, such as German shepherds, Rottweilers, Dobermans, Pit Bulls, etc; there is equally a market for them. With the rapidly increasing rate of crime worldwide, the demand for dogs is only bound to skyrocket.
Secondly, there is no market boundary for dogs. So whether you reside in the United States, U.K, Canada, Nigeria, Kenya, India, etc; you can do this business even from your home. Another positive fact about this business is that you can tap into the global market by putting your business on the web and exporting to the countries of your customers, based on demand.
You can get buyers for your puppies or female dogs to mate with your male dog, majorly through referrers.
You can make more money from dog breeding, if you offer multiple services, such as sales of dog feeds, feeding and taking care of dogs for owners who have little or no time.

You need to think big to succeed —Akara Ogheneworo 

 

 

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Akara Ogheneworo is one of Nigeria’s leading wedding photographers. He speaks with TOYIN KOMOLAFE on why he dumped banking for photography, the challenges he faced when he started his business and other sundry issues. Excerpts:

WHAT challenges do you face being a wedding photographer?We have the same challenges that affect any other business in Nigeria, from the state of the economy and the structures therein, the state of infrastructure in the nation as well as insecurity.

I will mention a few, and key on this list will be exchange rate fluctuation. This makes reinvestment in equipment very difficult to plan and achieve. 

Easy access to funds to gear business is another major drawback as banks would rather lend to established big names than support new starts or SMEs due to the risks involved and the lack of a credit rating system to determine a good borrower.

The cultural inhibitions to partnerships in Nigeria is another thing to look at. Nigerians want to own a One million naira company a hundred percent, than own 3% of a billion naira company. Getting investors to come in to invest at reasonable rates and finance your dream is a bit difficult.

Who are your mentors?In photography, my mentors are Jerry Ghionis and Ben Chrisman, two great wedding photographers from Australia and USA. Tunji Sarumi is another Nigerian I admire, I love the way he shoots. Generally, I am excited about the lives of Sam Adeyemi of Day Star and Pastor Bolaji Idowu of Harvesters International Christian Centre.

As you can see, I do not have one single person I will call a mentor, I choose people whom I can study and learn from according to their strengths and even from a distance.

Did you ever feel like quitting?Who does not? I have however come to realise people feel like quitting when a major breakthrough is coming their way. 

What would you say was the turning point in your career? The day I decided to have a blog was the day my photography career changed. I see people in business without online presence and I wonder how they survive. With globalisation, you are reaching the entire world when you are on the internet. It also means you have to step up your game and that challenge can make you better and it did for me. 

What motivates/inspires you?The thought that it is within me to achieve all I desire is a huge motivator. The knowledge that God has placed it all in me and I just need to understand how to walk His rules and paths and His instructions and look at His manual for my life is a huge inspiration. It tells me success is mine to cultivate and harvest. It tells me that success is not anyone’s to give to me, it is mine to take. 

What was the best advice you were given?Work hard. Pray at all times. Be different!

What do you think you should have done differently? NOTHING! Hindsight is funny, it makes you think you are wiser than you are. Foresight is everything. It makes me see what I will be without any doubt. I do not look back. I see the future.  

How did you start your photography business?I decided to learn it as a hobby. I realised I was very good at it and resigned my former employment and here we are. I was in paid employment and I used my salary to buy most of  the equipment I started with. So before I resigned, the structure required for me to succeed was on ground already. 

What were you doing prior to starting up?I was working as a Continuous Improvement Officer in a new generation bank. 

Where do you see your business in five years?The plan is to be shooting weddings on the African continent constantly as a Top African Wedding Photographer. This year, we have entered into the phase of that plan. 

If you were not into photography, what would you be doing?I would be doing photography. 

Photography has not prevented me from doing anything else I want to do. I have all the time in the world as a photographer to do whatever I choose to do.

Advice for youthsThink Big! Start Thinking Now! Work Hard! Start Working Now!! Get Better! Start Getting Better Now! Read Wide! Read Wider!! Seek Advice and use the advice as it affects your uniqueness. There are universal principles but individual applications. Find how to use a principle for your individualism. There is no one rule that fits them all. You were created to be  unique. Let your interpretation of the law be according to your uniqueness. Wisdom comes from dissent. Do not be afraid to say no when you have a better opinion. Argue your point if it makes sense to you. Your position only adds to the body of knowledge.

To excel, believe in yourself and pray always —Akinsulire

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Akinsulire Abiola, a Mass Communication graduate of University of Lagos is the brain behind Igbadun Concept, a company that is into catering and event management as well as fashion designing. In this interview with TOYIN KOMOLAFE, she speaks on why she decided to become an entrepreneur. Excerpts:
WHAT is Igbadun concept all about?
Igbadun Concept is a hospitality and lifestyle start-up that has two business areas – catering and event management on one part and fashion designing and accessories on the other.
The catering and event management arm provides catering and event planning services for corporate events such as dinners, trainings, end-of-the-year parties or more informal social events such as weddings, birthday, house warming, baby-birth celebrations, funerals.
On the other hand, the fashion and accessories business focuses on designing and making clothes and accessories suitable for all, using primarily African fabrics such as Ankara, Woodin, among others.
We also have trainings that we organise for the public. Our vision is to be a recognised brand which produces African/Nigerian styled clothes, wares and accessories which will be exported outside the country.
What made you decide to start your own business?
My husband and I decided that I should focus more on leveraging on my skills and also have the flexibility to spend more time with the family. Prior to that, I was running the business on a part-time basis.
Which skills did you already have when you started your business and what did you have to learn?
I developed cooking skills and a bit of clothing and Textile while growing up. When I decided to go fully into the business, I had to go to a fashion school to further improve on my skill. In addition to these, I have also attended management trainings with a view to enhancing my managerial capabilities.  I am constantly looking for avenues to update my skills and add value to the business.
Challenges that come with running your own business?
The most challenging part of running my own business is the dearth of capable human resource – either fully employed or contracted. Finding the right staff or contractor to complement the high standard  you want the business to represent is such a challenge. Other challenges are  limited funds and lack of basic infrastructure.
Have you made any business decisions that you later regretted?
I would not call them business decisions that I regretted but rather, business decisions that taught me business lessons. Their outcomes may have hurt but they gave valuable insight on what I needed to do right in business. One of such decisions had to do with doing  inventory of what we started the business with. With hindsight, I should have started with an inventory level that allowed us to adapt quicker to market needs. I was a bit overly optimistic in our initial sales plan.
What important business tip do you think most start- ups should have in mind?
Business must be grown and it takes time for it to stabilise because of internal and external threats.
What inspires you?
God and my husband. I have also been able to draw inspiration from my extended family.
Plans for the future?
We plan to open a training centre in the coming weeks and create a platform to empower people and raise more entrepreneurs. Furthermore, we plan to deepen the business by creating additional income line by leveraging more on our areas of competence.
Advice for youths?
For start ups, I must say that you must have a passion for whatever business you are going into. You must also acquire knowledge/skills for it. You must be patient, persistent and focused in order to go through the growth stage of the business.
 Finally, believe in yourself and pray always.

                  To succeed, discover your talent —Adoke

Israel Adoke is a fast-rising musician from Okene, Adavi Local Government Area of Kogi State. The undergraduate of Federal  Polytechnic, Ede, Osun State, speaks with OLUWAYINKA DADA on the importance of discovering and using one’s talent. Excerpts:

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HOW early did you discover your talent?
From  childhood I discovered that God had deposited a special gift in me  and that  is the ability to sing and compose new songs. While in primary school, I used to lead praise and worship at the assembly ground and also in the children’s department of my church. Though I had a lot of things I was doing then like drama and comedy, what I noticed  was that when it comes to singing, I do stand out and to the glory of God, my parents, especially my dad, brothers, friends, well-wishers, my music director (Mr Kayode Agboola) and the church, always encouraged me. Different churches invited me to sing for them especially when they were having anniversary and with the help of some people, we organised different musical concerts within and outside Oyo State. This has made me to  realise that the best way to succeed in life is for you to discover your talent.
When did you start professionally?
To the glory of God, I started professionally  in 2013. That was when I formed the band Dynamic Stars in conjunction with my brother (Adoke David) and God has been using this band to do miraculous things in the lives  of people through music.
Why did you wait for so long?
Rome was not built in a day. That one discovers his talent early does not mean that he should start immediately. It has to be a gradual process, meaning that one needs to work on himself physically and spiritually.
How many songs do you have to your credit?
I have 18 songs at  present but I have seven tracks on my album right now.
What inspires you?
The Holy Spirit has been the major source of my inspiration. I appreciate what He has been doing and what He will continue to do. Sometimes, when I sleep, the Spirit of God drops a song in my heart and I would wake up and write it down. Also, when meditating on the word of God, or just thinking about what is happening in the environment, inspiration flows and all these are the things that keep me going.
How have you been combining music with your academics?
Actually, it has not been easy combining the two, but God has always been on my side. Since I know that it is through education that one can survive in the society, I make sure I create enough time for my academics. Though I go to churches to perform,  I do not allow that to disturb my academics.
What are the challenges  you have been facing?
As an upcoming artiste and also  a student, there are lots of challenges but the major one is finance. Why I say finance is because as a student, the school fees given to me by my parents cannot be diverted  to promote my  music. Because of this, one has to think of sourcing for funds in a genuine way.
How do you intend to break into the industry?
Through prayer, quality works, publicity, promoters and marketers.
What is your assessment  of the Nigerian gospel music industry?
The industry is progressing. Quality works are now coming out and upcoming artistes are trying their best to improve too.
What is your advice to gospel musicians?
My advice to gospel singers is that they should face gospel music squarely and not mix it up  with secular songs.  Gospel music is to propagate the kingdom of God, to bring joy, deliverance, healing, salvation and also to glorify God. Therefore, gospel artistes should direct their motives towards these objectives, they should not sing worldly songs to entertain. Upcoming artistes should not rush to studios to produce albums but work on their songs well and be sure they  meet the required and acceptable standard.

Hard work, smartness panacea for success —Achanga

 

 

Emeh Achanga, a dual national of Nigeria and Cameroon, is the Chief Executive Officer of Miss Petite Nigeria Blog. The graduate of Law from the University of Buea, Cameroon, in this interview with TOYIN KOMOLAFE speaks on why she decided to quit her job to become a blogger. Excerpts:

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YOU once said that you don’t like the 9-5 work routine, was that why you went into blogging?
I guess my resolve to be independent and self-employed made my foray into blogging a lot easier. I delved into blogging because it was an avenue to do what I love doing, which is to write and be informed. So, when I made the decision to quit my 9-5 job, blogging just came naturally as one of those things I could do.
If not blogging what would you have done?
I would be a creative writer. I’ve never seen myself doing anything else.
Asides blogging, what do you do?
I do a lot of freelance work for individuals and companies. Writing scripts, working with magazines and a whole lot more which is related to the creative industry.
How rewarding will you say blogging is?
I would say when I started blogging, I didn’t know it was possible to earn money from it. It’s been so rewarding that I get a lot of referrals due to my blog. Apart from making money directly from advertising, I get recommended by those who know my blog. Most rewarding is the fact that I have a voice, a platform to air my views, entertain and disseminate information. Knowing that people click on my blog daily because they believe in my platform is the most rewarding part of blogging to me.
There are a million and one entertainment blogs, what will you say is the unique edge of your blog?
I think I let my personality shine through. Once people visit my blog, look at the design and my read posts, they have an idea of the personality behind it. So, there is a connection between the readers and I which is a very vital aspect of blogging. You have to connect. Also, I live up to my log line, “I disseminate information faster than “Usain Bolt.” I do not copy and paste and if do, I give credit. I also think the fact that sometimes, I let people into my world via my personal blog diaries makes me stand out.
Is there any blogger you look up to?
I actually look up to a couple. Linda Ikeji, Myne Whitman and Bella Naija. I’m inspired by people who do not jump on the bandwagon because it’s lucrative or trending. They went into blogging when all odds were against them. Myne Whitman as a writer and blogger inspires me with her originality.
What challenges come with blogging?
Generally, I would say plagiarism. It has eaten so deep into blogging that I have seen blogs that are a complete clone of others in terms of content and all. People who copy and paste without giving credit or mentioning their sources are a big challenge.
Is there any childhood experience that helped shape you?
Growing up with a father who was a strict disciplinarian, educationist, teacher and a writer shaped me. He made me learn a vocabulary every single day and stressed the importance of reading at a very young age.
What will you tell anyone who wants to go into blogging?
Blogging entails original and interesting content, patience and serious work. If money is your motive for delving into blogging, you would likely be disappointed. People see through commercialism. It puts readers off especially when you start. Let your passion shine through and money will come later.
What inspires you?
Waking up every morning inspires me .It shows I have a purpose because so many people don’t have a chance to fulfill and live their dreams. So, I try to make each day count.
Advice for youths
Never be carried away by the glitz and glamour you see on TV. The real world is different. Work hard and work smart. Also hone your skills and do what you enjoy naturally, that way it wouldn’t look like work at all.

The secret of our togetherness —Tunde and Wunmi Obe 

 

Showbiz couple, Tunde and Wunmi Obe, popularly known as TWO, are all-round entertainers who have carved a niche for themselves with their peculiar kind of music. They are also believed to be entertainment industry’s most popular celebrity couples. In this interview with KATE ANI, they spoke about their music, home-front and how they have been able to sustain their marriage 26 years on, amidst celebrity marriage woes.
Congratulations on your recent  birthday celebration,  Wunmi. How does it feel being a year older? 
I thank God. People are dropping dead here and there and there have been several cases of kidnapping, I thank God that I am still here and alive. There was no party, just a get-together with family members and close friends.
Your new singles, ‘Green White Green’ and ‘Wedding Day’ are currently receiving massive airplay and downloads. Why was Tuface your preferred artiste to feature in ‘Green White Green’?
Wunmi: We and Tuface go way back. Two years ago, Tuface wondered why he hadn’t done any collaboration with T.W.O and when we decided to do the song, Green White Green, we felt it was time to work with him. We didn’t want to drop just any song about wine, women and sex; we wanted to do something that would impact on the people and be relevant to our society. So, we came up with that song and decided to feature him. Both are singles taken from an album that we are working on, entitled: T.W.O Plus and hopefully, before the end of the year, it will be released.
How did music begin for you as a couple?
Tunde: We came together in 1988, but before then, we had both been doing music with different bands and colleagues in the industry. I used to be in a band called Turning Point and at a point, I felt I needed a female mate and one of our band members suggested Wunmi and she joined the band. We became friends and the rest, they say is history.
Wunmi, you are a wife, mother, singer and entrepreneur, how do you juggle all these together? 
It’s all by the grace of God and prioritising. In anything, you have to prioritise.  By prioritising, I can decide what comes first and what I can do without. First, I am a mother and a wife, every other thing comes behind.
Many artistes you both started with have been relegated to the background by new comers, how have you still maintained to be relevant?
Tunde: I think the most important thing is to respect your fans by releasing good music.  It’s not really about how long you have been doing music. Whether you are have been doing music for two years or just joining the industry, just come up with good songs and people would take notice of you. We work hard, we know it’s a competition, we take our music serious and we work with competent people and reputable managing company. We are surrounded by lots of good people; a lot goes into the music before releasing it to the public.
Where do you get your inspirations from? Most artistes and producers tend to get their inspirations ranging from nature, environment to women and weeds?
Wunmi: Anytime we want to release a song, we ask ourselves what the message we want to pass across is.   We also get inspirations from things that happen around us and address issues happening around us via music.
Tunde: We can be inspired by the beats, by God or things around us.
What is your connection with Aso Rock? You guys are reported to be close to the presidency and always play for them whenever they are having any event. Are you related to any big shot there in Abuja? 
(Laughs... ) I don’t have to answer that question. We are in the market like everybody else and it is their choice to pick who to entertain them. They call us to perform for them because they like our kind of music and we respond. We are not in any way related to them, I work for my money. If you have money and call me to come and perform, I would gladly come.
Like how much do you charge for events?
I can’t disclose that.
If you can dramatically change anything about the music industry, what would it be?
I would love there to be an entry requirement. There is this mentality that anybody who goes to the studio and records a song is a Nigerian musician; it makes the whole thing very unserious looking. Anybody can wake up tomorrow and say he or she is an artiste. When we were coming up, one must be a member of a society or organisation. That time, you must be a registered member of PMAN before you can be regarded as a musician. Now, nobody takes such things serious anymore and everybody is a musician. In fact as you are a journalist, if you record a single, you are automatically a musician. I would also love people to incorporate a little bit more messages into their songs. They can sing whatever they like, but they should try and make sure there are at least one or two songs in your album that passes a message about what is going on in the society. Musicians shouldn’t turn their back on all that is going on in the country.
Tiwa Savage recently released a video where it was alleged that the video promotes nudity and stimulates sex. Do you think the Nigerian female artiste is ready to compete with the likes of Rihanna, Nicki Minaj and Lady gaga?
 Tunde: Well, we don’t like to comment on other people’s career and what they have chosen to do as a musician, because I think everybody has the right to decide how they want to project their brand. What I will only say is that we have different cultures in Africa. From where Rihanna and Beyonce come from, people are tend to accept a lot more over there than we do over here. But, if it is working for you, who am I to say don’t do it.
Wunmi cuts in...If people don’t approve of such, I shouldn’t see hundreds of thousands of views of that video online.  You can’t be watching and enjoying it and at the same time, say it’s bad, that’s hypocrisy. Nigerians should decide if they are ready for that kind of videos or not. They are ready for it in private of their homes and enjoying it and saying something else in public.
Some people have argued that the Nigerian music industry has grown in leaps but the growth has not been seen and some celebrities have also said the growth has not translate into money for them, what do you make of this?
It depends on the artiste. The way the industry is now, it’s only like ten percent that make good money from it and they rest is just there, still struggling to get there. There are some artistes in the industry that are earning millions every month and some who are not earning much. I think that cuts across every profession, it is not just the music industry. There are actors who are making money and some who are not.
As a group, what has been the greatest moment of your musical career?
We haven’t gotten to the greatest moment yet, it is still to come. (He turns to Wumi) have you had any greatest moment?

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Wunmi:  Right know, I cannot think of any because every time we release an album, it is always a good moment for us. The first time we heard our music on radio and television was a great moment. You know, there are different things that had happened to us that has given us so much joy. But, like he said, the greatest moment is yet to come.
Let’s talk about you as a couple, you guys have been together for 26 years now and still waxing stronger, how has the journey been so far?
Wunmi:  We thank God. Definitely there have been challenges and it all depends on how we handle them.  Many people come across challenges and were unable to forge ahead. Thank God we saw challenges and have been overcoming all obstacles that have been coming our way, so far so good.
It’s a known fact that celebs marriages don’t last, even overseas. Can you share with us how you both still manage to keep up the vibe despite also being business partners?
Tunde: There are quite a few principles that make  celebs marriage to work; principles of respect, communication, patience, giving each other the benefit of the doubt and humility. To us, we are Tunde and Wunmi, we are not TWO in the house, we relate with each other on that level. That was how we had always been while we were dating and not yet popular.  We still see ourselves as those young couples who met in 1988. The God factor is probably the most important and of course we are quite religious, which we have passed onto our children. Love is a very strong principle in our marriage.
As a group, when you guys go on tour, how do you manage with the children, do they feel your absence?
Tunde:  Well, all the touring days were during our younger days. The kids didn’t start coming till year 2000.  We kind of  focused on our career in our early relationship days and made sure we were on a very sound footing before the children started coming.
Now, we don’t really go off away too long when we have an event. It’s always just for a couple of days. The house is well-structured, we have staff, that have been with us for years, very reliable and trustworthy and the kids are not really kids anymore. Our last child is ten years old.
Wunmi, how did Tunde propose? 
He did not. We just started discussing about the future, that was it.  While dating, we already knew we were altar-bound.
How do you handle his female fans, no doubt, Tunde is a very attractive man?
I don’t. I trust him to deal with it. His fans are his fans and it comes with the business.
Tunde: (Cuts in) That is the principle I mentioned that time; trust.
And how do you feel when men harass your wife?
Wunmi is very principled. Lots of men even find it difficult to approach her, in regards to that, I trust my wife.
What is the habit that puts you off of another?
Tunde: I have answered that question before, but I have come to realise that changing something about another person that you don’t like, you might end up changing something that you do like.  I think if you are married, be ready to accept people for who they are, both good and bad.
Your late father, Emmanuel Obe was an Ambassador to Senegal, Gambia and Mauritania simultaneously, did he approve of you going into music, rather than other noble professions?
Tunde: I always tell people that I don’t know if I would have ended up being a musician if I had not known my father. He might have put pressure on me in one way or the other, I wouldn’t know. But I would say that he was a music lover and a singer as well, though he was a diplomat. He would always sing along with his song when he is playing them in the evening and having his brandy. We had several genres of music in the house and had a very good sound system wherever we were in the world. He had always loved music and that was what also made me fall in love with music because I always sing along with him. It started as a hobby for me and with time, it became a profession.
What fond memories do you have of him?
His laugh, always very ready to help people, very social, everything is solved, once he is home. Those are the fond memories I have of him. Unfortunately, we lost him at a young age, but, we give God the glory that we came to this world through him.
It was reported that you guys are the richest couple in the music industry, how rich is T.W.O?
We manage our resources well and had made good investments in the past. We thank God for what we have been able to achieve all through the years. It is how much effort you put in work that will determine what you will be in life.
You both dress like twins?
Wunmi: We only coordinate with colours, and it was just to incorporate with the T.W.O brand.
What is the most expensive item in your wardrobe?
Wunmi:  I don’t really place much emphasis on luxuries. I can shop in a one dollar shop and sometimes, in a high profile shop. It depends on what I like. Besides, I don’t spend much on material things.
Tunde:  I would rather not answer that question. Our society places too much emphasis on money, it shouldn’t be so. I am not a materialistic person and I think there are better messages for me to share with people about struggle, hard work and motivations. I don’t talk about material things.
How do you guys relax? When was the last time you both went for a vacation?
We relax at home. (Both laughs)...Wunmi and the kids go for vacations regularly, I don’t. The work never stops.
If your children decide to follow in your footsteps to do music, will you encourage them to?
Tunde: You can’t stop a child from doing what you do. But it is important to train them through a very sound and solid education before they delve into music because at the end of the day, they could also have the ability to do other things aside music. The average career line of an average artiste is ten years. So, you must be able to do other things aside music.
What is your relationship with Charley Boy now, are you both still friends?
Once in a while, when the need arises, we call each other. The relationship is respectful and cordial. I reached out to him when he lost his father and that was the last time we spoke with each other.
How do you manage your funds, has there ever been a time that you both disagreed how money was to be spent?
Wunmi and I always discuss everything including how money should be spent and we also end up agreeing with each other. Of course sometimes we argue about it once in a while, but at the end of the day, we always reach a compromise.
Are you still in good terms with Stella Damasus?
Yes, the relationship is cordial.
What do you miss most about your late brother, Jaiye?
I miss everything about him. His character, his outgoing nature and I miss the fact that I lost a brother that was very close to me.

                            I became an int’l brand with just N15,000’

Andrew George is the CEO of GROOMS WARDROBE (GW), a company that deals in sewing suits, corporate casual wears, traditional attires etc. He speaks with ’RONKE SANYA on how he borrowed money to start his business which has now grown to international level, where he has customers in foreign countries and more.

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What inspired or influenced your decision to start up a business that deals in making suits?
I have always loved fashion. I would rather overdress than to under dress within the walls of my house; talk more of stepping out for any reason. I started off by working with Kabiosi Fashion in Ibadan. I helped in marketing his wares and selling his brands way back then before I later got to start up my own business.
Are you strictly into making suits alone?
Oh no. I also make traditional attire and corporate casual wears which was my area of specialisation and the main reason why I ventured into it.
So, why the name Grooms Wardrobe?
While I was yet working with my boss, it was a period when most of the jobs I handled were clothing the groom and groom’s men. God blessed me with the creative idea of apparel colour combination, which was why I was made to function in that area of clothing groom’s men. So, I fully accepted and endorsed the name.
When you decided to start up your own business after working with your boss for a while, what were those challenges you faced?
I didn’t really face much challenge, except for few ones. This is because, in the course of working for my boss, I had learnt the basics and the business part of fashion designing, although it is no longer business as usual.
Tell me about the few challenges you were faced with.
The number one challenge I was faced with was one which every new entrepreneur faces. There comes a time when you are faced with a challenge and you ask yourself: “am I really doing what I have always wanted to do? Can I achieve my dreams by doing this job?” Also, convincing people to patronise our locally made clothes was another great challenge. Funny enough, these were the same people I have at different times sold the imported suits and corporate casual wears to while I was still working with my boss.
You started selling locally made clothes outside the country even when you were still with your boss?
No. I started exporting locally made clothes when people heard and embraced my collections. Then I started getting demands and referrals beyond borders. I started selling abroad when the people here in Nigeria heard and embraced my collections.
So it was as a result of referrals from your customers?
Yes! It was after I started my own business, not while I was with my boss. So our jobs attracted attention internationally. Especially in Dublin, London and South Africa, including Chicago, where we have customers, who order to resell.
Do you train people?
Due to the unique kind of fashion school vision I desire to run, we haven’t yet kicked off training people for now. However, we do hope by next year, we will be able to start.
Can you recollect what your starting capital was?
If I am to be precise, I started with little or should I even say nothing because my starting capital wasn’t even my own money, I borrowed it. However, my first customer ordered N15,000 worth of cloth, which I made and realised my profit from.
Where do you see suit making business in Nigeria in the next five years? 
I can tell you that in five to 10 years from now, if Christ tarries, the locally made corporate casual wears would have experienced 30 per cent increase in patronage by Nigerians, considering its present trend.

Ribadu: I am Not Bothered about Pressure from APC

 Malam Nuhu Ribadu

• Former PDP scribe berates politicians for blocking ex-EFCC boss

By Emmanuel Bello   and Daji Sani 

A former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has said he is not bothered about the pressure mounted by his party, the All Progressive Congress (APC), to halt his planned defection to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

The APC leadership has continued to dissuade the former anti-corruption chief from defecting to the PDP.

But reacting to the move, Ribadu noted that while he appreciated the gestures, he is entitled to his decision.

Speaking through his media aide, Abdulaziz Abdulaziz, the former presidential aspirant seeking to contest the Adamawa governorship election said the current pressure was   a sign of his competence.

A statement signed by Abdulaziz and made available to THISDAY in Abuja yesterday noted that: “Ribadu has support irrespective of political leanings in the state. The people need someone with Ribadu’s credentials. Thus it is no wonder he is under pressure from all quarters.”

Abdulaziz also added that Ribadu had grassroots appeal as a result of his anti-corruption crusade which made him a house hold name.

Since it got out that Ribadu wants to run for the governorship, many commentators have either hailed or flayed the decision.

Apart from the choice of the PDP platform, some observers have criticised the office the Adamawa politician is seeking.
But Abdulaziz said the former EFCC boss was enjoying massive support from the state because the people have identified corruption as the biggest issue.

He noted that although Ribadu did not have a godfather, he has widespread support from major stakeholders both in the state and the presidency.
Meanwhile, a former scribe of the PDP in the state, Mr. P. P. Elisha,  has faulted moves by some political heavyweights to deny Ribadu automatic admission into party

Elisha who spoke with journalists at his residence in Yola, described the action as unfair to the party and freedom of individuals to associate.

He maintained that “these” people who now pride themselves as members of the PDP were given waivers in 2011, adding that some of them had added colour to the party with their aura.

“It is an act of gross injustice and unfairness not to allow Ribadu join the PDP,” he said.

According to him, the elders and those crying foul had in 2011 disregarded due process in picking candidates according to laid down guidelines, as he expressed surprise that the same people were crying foul, adding “that he who must agitate for equity and justice must come with clean hands.”

“I remember in 2011 when we were in Bauchi, the incumbent national chairman of the party was aspiring to contest for primaries for the presidential ticket of the party. He mobilised for an alleged imposition. The same scenario is playing out now.

“But when we went to Eagle Square in Abuja, nobody protested against the imposition of the party’s presidential candidate in 2011. The convention was held as the president emerged the candidate and eventually won the presidential election,” Elisha said.
The former scribe explained that the national chairman of PDP should not be crucified for replaying the same type that was played in 2011, saying it was the same method applied to some person who had aspired for the presidency of the country on the platform of the PDP despite the fact that there were many presidential aspirants then.

“The same thing rolled out in the state when we came back to the state after the convention. The same stakeholders crying fouls now said we should adopt Murtala Nyako as the governorship candidate of the party against all odds, despite the fact that there were many aspirants for the office.

“At that time, only five of us, Musa Kamale, PP Elisha and three others who frowned at such action said it was imposition as primaries were not conducted. Between our trip from Bauchi and Abuja, a decision was taken in favour of Nyako without primaries.

“If it was done in 2011 or 2012, why should it not be done now? Why are the same people crying foul? Adamu Mua’zu suffered the same fate because he was a presidential aspirant.”

“They are only making noise, am sorry to say that, but the facts are there for everyone to see.”

Elisha, who vouched for the credibility of the former EFCC boss, said Ribadu could only be likened to the disposition of General Muhammadu Buhari (rtd), whose aspiration for Nigeria “is to free the society of corruption and indecency.”

He said if elected, Ribadu would make sure that there is equity and fairness in the political and the administrative system in the state “because he is a tested and trusted person whose passion is needed for the development and growth of the state.”

Chidoka’s Soaring Profile

Osita Chidoka

From the Federal Road Safety Corps to the Ministry of Aviation, Mr. Osita Chidoka is one of the promising leaders of a new generation Nigeria, writes Ojo M. Maduekwe

The principle of federal character as enshrined in the Constitution was considered in the appointment of the immediate past Corps Marshal and Chief Executive of the Nigeria Federal Road Safety Commission (FRSC), Osita Chidoka, as the new Minister of Aviation by President Goodluck Jonathan. But more importantly, competence was unquestionably the overriding factor.

Since the new dawn some 15 years ago, Chidoka, the tenth in line of Aviation Ministers that Nigeria has had, starting from the government of former President Olusegun Obasanjo, to the late President Umaru Yar’Adua and now Jonathan, can be said to be the only one whose appointment has the semblance of career elevation.

Chidoka is coming from the FRSC, which technically is a parastatal under the Ministry of Transportation but can also be grouped under the same transportation sector with aviation.

He could be said to be treading on familiar terrain, unlike his predecessors: Ousegun Agagu, Kema Chikwe, Isa Yuguda, Babalola Borishade, Femi Fani-Kayode, Felix Hyatt, Babatunde Omotoba, Fidelia Njeze, and Stella Oduah.

Appointed into the FRSC in 2007 by President Obasanjo, at the age of 35 years, Chidoka boasts a record of being the first person to have headed the Commission at such a young age. And over the years, he has proven that performance is no respecter of age. Under his watch, the number of road accidents was reported to have dropped drastically.

He introduced into the FRSC, the practice of continuous awareness programs for road users, ICT to enhance successful patrol operations, establishment of modern communication centres, deployment of phones to capture offenders, workforce increment from 11,000 in 2007 to 19,000 in 2014, and capacity building for the corps personnel.

Given his achievements in road safety and the push for a better road infrastructure at the FRSC, a lot is expected of Chidoka.
The touted achievements of his immediate predecessor, Oduah, means that he would have to assert himself and build on her achievements, some of which were uncompleted at the termination of her appointment by President Jonathan on Wednesday, February 12, 2014.

Handing over to the Minister of State for Trade and Commerce, Dr. Samuel Ortom, Oduah, in a speech listed her achievements during her two and a half years stint to include, an aviation master plan; reconstruction and remodelling; commencement of new terminals; institution and capacity building; safety and security, and the noble idea of a Perishable Cargo and Aerotrolis.

“Using the Master Plan and Road Map, we were able to reconstruct and remodel all 22 federally-owned airports across the country. We also commenced the construction of five new international terminals in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu and Kano. We also introduced the Perishable Cargo and Aerotrolis concepts to drive the growth and development of not only the aviation sector, but also the Nigerian economy.

“Construction of the cargo terminals has commenced across 16 airports across the country while modalities have been completed to kick-start the Aerotropolis project. We also carried out institutional reforms, built the capacity of NCAT to produce enough professionals both for the local aviation market and for export.

“My greatest satisfaction comes from our accomplishments in the area of safety and security of the Nigerian airspace. We were able to procure, update and install safety-critical infrastructure that has repositioned the sector to achieve our objective of zero-accident rate in the Nigerian airspace,” said Oduah.

For the former minister, her greatest achievement could have been in the area of safety and security but for former Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the concept of a perishable and agro cargo terminal was greater.

At the inauguration of the international terminal of the Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport, Sanusi remarked: “Stella has spoken about a cargo airport for perishables and for agriculture. Now, for me, as an economist and as the Governor of Central Bank of Nigeria, that is the most important and visionary step that the Aviation Minister has taken.

“Airports are not just to carry human beings from Lagos to Kano; it is not just there to make travel easy and comfortable experience for individuals… This is really a great opportunity for opening up an entire population and linking them up to the markets. So that the idea of agriculture airports and airport for perishables and airport for dry crops is an idea that recognises that airports are parts of the economic development of a region.”

For Chidoka, a safer and secure air transport system and an industry that can be made more economically viable should be of keen interest to him. Already, a safer and secure transportation system is something Chidoka understands. For those who followed him during his time at the FRSC, safety was an anthem. While at FRSC, Chidoka never stopped seizing opportunities to talk about the need for Nigeria to be more road safety conscious.

At a forum, he once made a case for Nigerian and African roads. “Africa in its present state presents a major challenge to current global efforts to increase safe road use due to the poor state of its road infrastructure. This could be attributed to the lack of a maintenance culture and the substandard quality of road construction in most African countries.

“Let me point out that the global drive towards the improvement of the quality of lives in Africa through the instruments of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) will only increase road fatalities if the current road infrastructure is not improved upon.

“Therefore, we believe that foreign investments in Africa must adopt a holistic approach that underscores the need for a transportation system that guarantees safety, livability and a sense of community. I have no doubts in my mind that safer roads and diminished fatality index ratios will remain a mirage for Africa if its Governments are not made to appreciate the imperative of increased investments in the area of road infrastructure and furniture,” maintained Chidoka.

At the aviation ministry, unlike the FRSC, Chidoka’s work is half done. Wherein he complained of a disinterested government when it comes to investing in road infrastructure, Chidoka would not have to worry over that at the aviation ministry.
At the same forum, Chidoka said in contrast, the aviation sector in Africa presents an interesting comparison to the road sector. “It attracts higher government attention due to robust international conventions, elite interest and the international capacity to promote pilot training, certification, aircraft inspection and engineering.”

Funding may not be Chidoka’s problem as aviation minister but, maintenance of the industry’s infrastructure could be.
For starters, some of the reconstruction and construction works began by Oduah appear to be crumbling. An instance is the Yola International Airport, described by Oduah as “comparable to any terminal anywhere in the world,” but which remains to be utilised due to its caved rooftop.
According to industry experts, quality infrastructure construction, in partnership with the private sector, should be a priority focus for Chidoka.

According to a report in THISDAY, ‘Home Truths: the House Stella Oduah Built’, the airports are in dire need of maintenance. Sometimes the ventilation system is poor that passengers help themselves with hand fans.
Also, the airports, like many businesses in the country are powered using generating sets. There have been instances of blackouts in the airports. On February 18, 2014, there was a blackout at the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Lagos, which reportedly lasted over an hour, the THISDAY report stated.

Chidoka should also consider important, capacity building of personnel working in the parastatals under the aviation ministry, such as Federal Airport Authority of Nigeria, Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority, Nigeria Airspace Management Agency, Accident Investigation Bureau, Nigerian Metrological Agencies and Nigeria College of Aviation Technology.

Many people would also suggest that the immigration officers be included in the capacity building drive. In the THISDAY article, the writer narrated an experience: “At the Lagos airport, the immigration officers were stamping 2013 in people’s passport as they were departing last month. You’ll want to know how I found out. I went through the immigration officers without having my passport stamped on Sunday. They took my passport from me and returned it. When I returned to them after the officials of Virgin Atlantic I boarded to London discovered that I didn’t have my passport stamped, they called it human error. Isn’t that embarrassing enough?”

With a sector as important as the ministry of aviation, a lot is expected of Chidoka. But judging from his performance at the FRSC, not a few people believe that Chidoka would perform by addressing many of the challenges bedevilling the ministry, by initiating new ideas, and building on the existing achievements of his predecessors.