Not too long ago, I wrote a post based on a popular Nigerian folktale. I am a lover of our folktales because of the wisdom inherent in them which most of us overlook. And that is the reason I will from time to time, bring them to discuss the lessons learned. Today; it is still a story involving the most popular character in our folktales – Tortoise. Enjoy!

There was a great King who ruled in a far far away Kingdom a long long time ago at a time when animals could talk. The King took very ill for a long period of time and was at the point of death. After several attempts by medicine men from within the Kingdom to heal the king failed, “Ikumejakako”, the dreaded herbalist who dwelt in the evil forest was consulted. He examined the king and pronounced that the King would have to take a special brew made of elephant body parts or die within seven days.

The King and his chiefs wondered how they would capture a big and dangerous animal like an elephant. The King after consultation with his chiefs made an announcement throughout the Kingdom that anyone who would capture an elephant within seven days would get half of the kingdom and his beautiful daughter as a bride.

The tortoise came forward to accept the challenge. He made a request of the King, that a very deep pit be dug and that the pit should be concealed with raffia and mats and that a throne fit for a king should be set on top of the pit. The tortoise made some “akara” balls (bean cakes) soaked in honey and set out into the forest in search of an elephant. The wandered through the forest making inquiries of his fellow animals until the third day when he stumbled on an elephant resting under a tree.

Tortoise: Elephant, what are you doing here…haven’t you heard the news?
Elephant: What news? Do not disturb my siesta tortoise, I do not like gossip
Tortoise: I don’t believe my eyes, a whole King, resting in the forest under a shade!!
Elephant: A King, what King?
Tortoise: YOU!! The king is dead and the elders have decided to make you king over the people.
Elephant: (roars with laughter)….you must be a joker tortoise, who would want to make an old ugly elephant like me a king?
Tortoise: There is no time for explanations, preparations are already at an advanced stage in the kingdom for your coronation, we must make haste, see, I have proof (he brought out one of the “akara” balls and handed one over to the elephant) This akara is only a small part of the delicacies being prepared for your coronation.
Elephant: (putting the akara into his mouth) Hmmmmm….this is delicious…really delicious it must be true, lets make haste.

And so the tortoise led the elephant all the way to the village handing out the akara balls to him at intervals and singing popular coronation songs to him all the way.

Song: A o merin joba
Response: E we ku ewele
Song: Erin to de ade owo
Response: E we ku ewele
Song: Erin to wo ewu oye
Response: E we ku ewele
Song: A o merin joba
Response: E we ku ewele

Song: The elephant is about to be crowned
Response: We are extremely joyous
Song: The elephant who adorns the crown of wealth
Response: We are extremely joyous
Song: The elephant attired in the regalia of the royals
Response: We are extremely joyous
Song: The elephant is about to be crowned
Response: We are extremely joyous

As the tortoise and the elephant approached the palace, news of the capture of the elephant spread like wild fire, everybody came out of their houses and started following the duo to the palace joyous and joining in tortoise’s songs. This all created an atmosphere of festivities reinforcing the belief in the elephant’s mind that he was to be made king.

Elephant: Your story must be true…the people are really joyous to see me.
Tortoise: You know I wouldn’t lie to you, can’t you see them singing that your reign shall be long?

As the throne finally came into sight, the elephant lumbered into it majestically amidst dancing and singing. He sat on the throne and instantly the ground gave way beneath him and he fell into the pit. The king’s warriors immediately descended upon him with spears and clubs and butchered him. Once the king had taken a sip of the elephant broth made for him, he became instantly well and fulfilled his promise towards the tortoise.

Lessons Learned

1. Most times, big problems have solutions – albeit challenging ones
The King was near death and all the medicine men in the Kingdom failed to get a cure. The only man who could cure him did not mince words but made them understand the enormity of the problem and the very hard solution – capturing a live elephant. Most times in our lives, we are faced with these kind of challenges and just give up not knowing that a solution exists although scarce or hard to come by.

2. Those who don’t believe in the impossible always get good incentives
Humans in the Kingdom most likely already passed a death sentence on the King but the tortoise knew the power of possibilities. The incentive to bring the elephant was mouth watering – half of the King’s wealth and his beautiful daughter which might translate to becoming a future King. When we realize the importance of taking up challenges no matter how hard; we are on the way to fulfillment.

3. When you remember Esau, remember the elephant
The lesson to learn from this is to raise one’s price and ensure one’s birthright is not sold for a bowl of porridge like Esau. The bowl of porridge in this case is akara soaked in honey. That was too irresistible for the elephant and he followed the tortoise to his death. What is the ‘Akara’ in your life that lures you a step closer to doom? If you have not taken time to find out and break free; the elephants tale is sure to repeat itself.

4. Be dancing, I am watching your back
From time immemorial; man has mastered the acts of deceit and the ability to cheer someone on to the death. A popular illustration is one popular and loved Nigerian politician/philanthropist who despite his good plans for Nigeria got deserted by some close friends and political associates including his running mate. We know the end of the story. One has to be able to discern when people are singing – Ma jo lo, mo n wo eyin re (Be dancing, I am watching your back). That was the elephant’s undoing – the tortoise knew the weakness of his frail ego and the songs/crowds did a lot to finish the Elephant. A lesson for all of us!

This post is inspired by a decision to live a life that contributes to the Nigerian and African dream. A dream born out of a desire to evolve a nation and continent far from the present status of a dark people. A glimpse into a future of possibilities that will only be possible when individuals understand the extent a single change of heart can positively affect our nations. I am one of those people who believe that the regeneration of the human mind is possible and that all hope is not lost for a revitalization. If I as an individual is ready to respect the sanctity of life belonging to my fellow humans and understand the fact that a beastly interaction with them confirms the popular view of us as no better than animals; then I think we are on the right track.

Everyday is mixed with a plethora of bad news, poverty and hopelessness especially in our part of the world. But this same part of the world boasts of the highest concentration of natural resources and in my own opinion, a high proportion of potentially great human resources. I used the word ‘potentially’ because though we have a lot of intellectuals around but there are still many more who due to simple yet trivial reasons like malnutrition have not been able to maximize their brain powers. I don’t want to derail as that is a post for another day.

A lot of people have given up on our nations (I said nations because a lot of African countries face similar problems) and would even prefer to be illegal immigrants in Libya but is that where it all ends? I believe that it is not a hopeless solution and even in the midst of the darkness; there are still beacons of light for all to see even though people tend to prefer the bad news. Recently, I have been thinking a lot about the human mind and its ability to condemn but not proffer solutions. I also marvel at how many of us blame the incumbent but when we are presented with power prove to be more animal-like than those we criticized. Is it that we can never get it right as humans? No, it is just a matter of principle and decisions first made as an individual and then wholly adopted as a people.

The Americans have shown us that despite their flaws, they still hold the position as the conscience and leader of the modern world. They have proven to us that having a sound institutional framework and adhering to same is a prerequisite to having a successful nation. George W Bush goes down as one of the most infamous presidents of America but despite his errors; I still salute his contribution to the seamless transition of power to the first black president of the United States. We know what could have happened if this episode happened in some other countries. Everyone has been focusing on Obama and the new face of change in the US but I also salute the American framework which makes it almost impossible for an individual to hold the country to ransom; a gift from the founding fathers of America. Which brings us to the question – what foundation did our own founding fathers lay? I think an answer to that question will go a long way in understanding the mind of the average Nigerian leader and citizen as it may be.

As you may have known – a lot of Nigerians and Africans attended Obama’s historic inauguration but did they leave with the expected lessons? Let’s even come closer home. Ghana is our West African neighbor and I am proud of their presidential elections which went on for some time but was a very open process. I hope South Africa will give us something to cheer about in 2009 as they go to the polls especially with the political climate in that country in the emergence of COPE and the events that led to its formation. I sincerely pray that all goes well for Africa’s pride.

The main reason I am posting this is not in those analysis made above but in the next few paragraphs. I am wondering what will happen if all of us decide to start doing good, having the overall good of our nations at heart. I am just thinking how everything would change if our generation decides to create a better world for our children and their offspring? I don’t know if you have thought of it that way before, but this is a call for us all to start this new movement. A movement of women and men sold out to change their World one person at a time. It is in this light that I have made the following creed which will be an ongoing process and open to addition. I guess you should form yours too.

To be fair in my dealings with all. Not giving myself to unnecessary legalities but choosing to use the almighty as a guide.

To always distant myself from corrupt deals because human lives are at stake. Money stolen from the Works ministry makes the thief a murderer ‘cos the roads won’t be safe. Money stolen from the health ministry ensures death in our hospitals.

To be a good citizen no matter the rot in the system.

To be a gospel preached by living a life worthy of emulation.

To always strive for the betterment of my nation, continent and the World at large.

To contribute to the society by first being a good husband and father. First to make sure my wife is happy and also to raise godly kids who will bless their generation.

To use my God given abilities not to enrich my soul and body only but to bless others. That through me, many lives will be blessed and obtain fulfillment.

To always speak the truth even in the face of adversity.

To hold good name and the importance of good posterity above worldly wealth.

To pursue the real essence of happiness which is in impacting one’s World in an unselfish way.

So help me God. Amen.

Today, we continue our mentoring session with Uche Adaigbe. Meeting with him was a turning point for me as he struck me immediately as a young man who knew where he was going. An extremely focused individual with a huge drive; Uche did a lot to instill confidence in me when I joined Vmobile Nigeria in 2005 from an IT background. If you are looking for a man who understands his job to the minutest of details – then he is your man. He converses with you up to protocol levels and he is truly an Engineer. With guys like him; the future of Nigeria in Internet Protocol and new generation Telecommunication is very secured.
Uche is presently a consultant to the leading Telecoms vendor in the World and has deployed solutions in 11 countries already.
Happy reading.

What book are you reading at the moment?

Just finished reading some certification book, won’t say I am a very good book reader, I mainly read technical materials.

Forgive my morals, please let’s meet you sir

Uche Chukwuemeke ADAIGBE

I know you read a lot and marvel at the ease with which you go even down to protocol level in Telco/IP world. Did you find your school books that interesting?

Interestingly YES, especially from SS1 – Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics and Further Mathematics up until this day.

Give us an insight into your formal educational journey from elementary to Tertiary?

Brother Pius Nursery School Benin City, Air Force Primary School Benin City, University of Benin Demonstration Secondary School Benin City and University of Benin

What was your career choice when you were in Secondary school?

I think I had decided on Electrical and Electronic Engineering from my SS1 or SS2

As a graduate of Electrical Electronics, most of your classmates’ first choice of industry would most likely be Oil n Gas; did you have the same sentiment?

Yeah, I did, especially haven graduated from the University of Benin where most of the guys who had graduated before me had been snapped by the likes of Shell, Schlumberger, Chevron with their then obscene salary offers, I seriously considered the Oil and Gas industry, just for the money though. I must confess it wasn’t easy sticking by what I knew I was cut out for especially when you hear of all those ‘stupid’ money your peers are earning in the Oil and Gas industry

So what attracted you into the Telecommunication industry?

Not too long after my project defense, while waiting for NYSC posting (that was delayed for one year), I decided to study a book on Digital Electronics as I noticed that it was an area I wasn’t very confident of after school, I also decided to hook up with a friend who was my computer lecturer before I got into the university and had started his own business/ computer training school. I was also studying IEEE Communications and Computer journals at the time, I think all these together, the IEEE Communications Society (ComSoc) journals especially made me discover the fact that I was cut out for telecoms, it really came like a knowing not just an attraction.

Most times, our first jobs determine our career path. Where did you cut your first teeth and share your experience with us?

Not sure which I would call my first job now, as I mentioned earlier, I was working with this computer lecturer of mine and he is someone I really credit for helping me discover myself as it were, he at the time was someone that believed in me much more than I believed in myself, I was working for him but was not earning a salary. My first job in which I was being paid was as a corper with Cellcom as an Admin Officer (I have interesting memories of those times), it obviously did not determine my career path but the little skills I picked from there have come a long way in helping my writing skills as per documentations and designs which could be a nightmare for many technical people. I afterwards was retained in the company as a Switching Engineer Trainee. But the job that really shaped my career was with GloMobile, just 6mths after I was retained by Cellcom, I was employed as GPRS O&M Engineer, that’s where my career practically began to unfold and in one year it was set and clear.

The data world in Telecoms is still relatively new and gradually becoming the cutting edge in the industry, what is your comment on this?

It sure is the future of telecommunications generally especially as ARPU from traditionally telecoms services (voice) is on a steady decline, data can help bring in untold revenue. As you know, its only humans that can talk, number of data capable agents are limitless.

In layman terms, what is SIGTRAN?

It is an acronym for SIGnaling TRANsport, it basically means transporting traditional Signaling System No. 7 (SS7) messages over using IP of course over an IP infrastructure.

Most Telecoms vendors now use TCP/IP as their preferred transport protocol even for traditional nodes like the MSCs in the form of SIGTRAN, why did that happen?

This has happened because the telecoms standards organization 3GPP/ETSI from its release 5 onwards decided to standardize the use of IP as network layer protocol because of its flexibility as a protocol and its success in its use in the internet, of course as you know, the transport layer for SIGTRAN does not use TCP but rater SCTP which was specifically built for SIGTRAN purposes to cater for short falls of TCP and UDP in carrying such delay sensitive protocols like SS7.

With the experience you have gathered, what do you think will be the next big technology in Telecoms?

Most advancements in the telecoms world is been done on the radio network as against the core network, this will make Long Term Evolution (LTE) that promises to offer up to 100Mbps per user the next big technology in telecoms, especially mobile telecoms. Mobile IP with the use of IPv6 could also be a technology that we should look out for in the future, it is a core network technology though.

Your first touch with General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and Mobile Packet Backbone Network (MBPN) was with Glo Nigeria, describe how it happened for us?

I had dropped off my CV with Glo Nigeria during the “mad rush” into Glo in 2003 after knowing I had no future in Cellcom about 6mths after being retained from NYSC, I was called for an interview as a Switching Engineer Trainee, honestly, I barely knew nothing about switching especially because I had been spending my time reading up CDMA and had just finished CCNA so I was practically all about IP and CDMA. During the interview, I was asked a number of switching related questions all of which I think I answered wrongly. Interestingly, one of the guys in the panel was the GPRS/WAP and MMS Manager; he looked at my CV and saw I had written that I had knowledge of CDMA, the interview then turned to be a two way question and answer session between me and him (he told me later that I had given him the exact answers he had wanted), he finally then asked if I knew the meaning of GPRS, I then smiled as though, “what a question?” and then answered. He then decided to take me from the switching position I was been interviewed for to the GPRS O&M position he had under him that was the first stage of the interview that day, I had one more technical interview and two HR interviews afterwards. I got the job a couple of months after.

I am privy to the knowledge that you have never attended any Computer school and that your development was mostly self-taught and through hardwork, any advice on how to tow that route?

I actually did attend a Computer school after SSCE and by the time I had graduated from the university, I could not remember anything about computers, it was Windows 3.1, DOS, BASIC, DBASE and the likes that I had learnt for just 3mths though. As for advising, I’d say its all about interest, for me, reading is out of interest, I have been reading since I left the university and I have been able to sustain it because I kept up and am keeping up my interest in telecommunications and technology as a whole.

Most people tend to think that techies like you don’t have business skills. Can you disprove them?

Well, they won’t be wrong in thinking so seeing how techies have always turned out. I, on the contrary think you can develop business skills and even build a business around your technical abilities. I guess the only way I can disprove anyone who does not agree is to build a viable and profitable business based on my technical abilities myself.

When was the first time you realized you can become an expatriate at what you do?

After I had worked with an expatriate who was employed by Ericsson Nigeria and more so after the same guy had asked me what I was still doing in Nigeria as a local. Before then, I had only thought of working abroad like guys do in the UK et al now.

Describe your first shot at consultancy abroad and how it succeeded or failed? Lessons from the experience?

I declined the very first interview I was to have as a consultant because I was not mentally ready to leave home then. By the time I was ready, I had 2 job offers – 1 in Haiti for Digicel Haiti which used Ericsson equipments and the other with Siemens in Cote ‘d Ivoire which used Cisco equipments, I turned down the Siemens guys because I really wanted to work with Ericsson equipments and also because they didn’t seem very straight – I’m sure you know of the very many problems Siemens have been having lately, especially about bribery. The Haiti one did not work out as well because I had a problem securing a transit visa from the French embassy so the contract was eventually canceled after a number of visa trials. In all of it, I think I would say perhaps God wanted me in Kenya which was the next opportunity that came and it greatly helped my skill set, actually in ways I can’t even begin to express here. As for the lessons I learnt in all of it, I was happy I knew all what I said I knew; the image of the Nigerian Youth is so so bad and its something I think we all as Nigerian Youths should go the extra mile in trying to better in our conducts and lifestyles as individuals so I wasn’t just going to be another Nigerian guy with some twisted story, claiming to be who he is not.

You are GPRS/MPBN Expert/Consultant providing service for the leading Telecoms vendor in the World. How many countries have you provided these services in?

11 Countries all in Africa including Nigeria

Can you try to describe what your job entails for us?

In a brief, it involves Design and Implementation of Mobile Packet Backbone Networks – IP Backbones for Telecoms Operators that use Ericsson as their Telecom Equipment vendor. I also integrate GPRS Nodes, SGSNs and GGSNs.

If you think deeply, what is the greatest factor in getting to the point you are today and why?

Well, I would say God just answered my wishes. Other than that, I decided to pursue my interests and was blessed to have had the avenues and opportunities to have expressed myself. So the greatest factor would be my desires and drive all based on my interest, again I guess I was a bit daring in following my interests through and through.

Who is/are your role models?

Not sure I can say I have role models because I believe we all are in this world for different purposes and to achieve different goals this should not be mistaken for being conceit as I have people whose work and excellence in their endeavors have greatly inspired me as a person and as an engineer and these people have come in different stages of my life and career and there are some now and I guess many more to come. For those inspiring my future (which I believe would best fit the profile of role models as you have asked) are the likes of Jim Ovia whose community development efforts and selflessness is profound, not to talk of his being able to mastermind one of the most respected financial institutions in Nigeria today; Aliko Dangote and Mike Adenuga for having the courage to invest in Nigeria and providing jobs for very many Nigerian youths of which I was one. Many of us might have our reservations about the personalities of these people but their achievements are outstanding. If we were in their shoes, chances are that we might have been worse. I also am seriously inspired by my pastor Kingsley Okonkwo who was able to grow a church of young school leavers and fresh university graduates who had absolutely nothing into a church of young entrepreneurs and by simply believing in God and in their abilities, he really was not about the money he could but about the people. The common thing with all of these people I have mentioned is that they believe in Nigeria and the Nigerian human resource and trust me, haven travelled a bit around Africa and worked with peoples from around the globe, I know how valuable that human resource is.

Many think that the color of their skin shuts doors on them; do you have any advice for them?

Its only God that can shut a door and nothing will be able to open it, otherwise a man’s skill can make a way for him and his diligence can make him stand before kings.

Someone might be intimidated by your profile, how can they also start working towards their goal?

First know what you are truly cut out for, it is always something around that positive thing you are interested in, then begin to genuinely pursue it and trust me, nature will respond to you and then of course I won’t rule out the God factor as HE is able to do exceeding, abundantly above all you can ever ask or imagine.

If I present a young graduate interested in a Telecoms career to you – what are the steps you will recommend for the young person?

Same as in the last question

What are your long term career/business goals?

As for career, doing what I enjoy doing, which is providing solutions especially in the field of IP based telecommunications – using the available technology to better lives. As for business, building of businesses that would be able to generally better the lives of Nigerians and Africans such that the parts of the money made can be put back in the community and other parts used for furthering the gospel of Jesus Christ here on earth as everything is HIS and we are just custodians.

There is still a lot of skills gap in Africa especially in IT and Telecommunication. How can we bridge the gap?

First is by taking up the challenge being posed by the youths of the far east – Indians and Chinese especially, next is for those of us who have being blessed to be able to give back our knowledge, resources and time to the youths who are willing to take up the challenge and then of course pray and participate positively in politics so that we are able to get the right people that will create enabling environments for the development and operation of businesses and standardization of our educational systems so that we can tackle unemployment and idleness which are the strongest drivers of vices amongst the Nigerian and African youths.

What values do you hold tight in life?

Do unto others as you would want them to do to you which in others words are Love your neighbor as yourself, also honesty, fairness, equity. All of these for me are based on the gospel of Jesus Christ.

What do you do to relax?

Watching movies on the big screen, small screen series, TV channels like Discovery, History also E! and then of course reading.

It’s been a pleasure talking to you. Thanks for the time and the insights.

Ha ha …. Ki Lo De
I guess you are wondering why that kind of title – Ha ha, Ki lo de? This is a Yoruba phrase figuratively meaning – Why? What I am about to write is a topic that touches a sensitive part of my heart and God willing, I intend to be a change agent in this regard. Have you ever imagined why Nigerians living abroad don’t want to come back home even when they are not doing skilled jobs in their country of abode while on expired visiting visas? I am sure the number one reason on everyone’s lip is Electricity and I agree with them since we all know that if Nigeria starts having constant power; a lot of businesses will survive. But I am going to face some other factors which most people fail to acknowledge.

1. The Sublime Shopping Experience

When I remember that in Nigeria, buying groceries for most people is a very unpleasant experience especially if you have to rely on our very dirty and overcrowded markets with market men and women rubbing sweats on you as you price each item as if you about to be cheated. I also know that it is only recently that some proper shopping malls like Shoprite and Park n Shop came up and it is a fact that only the upper class dare venture into those stores not necessarily because of item prices but that the mentality of the people suggest that their locations such as highbrow Lekki and Victoria Island is for the rich only. Now let us examine another country within Africa – especially some in the SADC Region where even their small towns boast of stores like Spar, Shoprite, Mr Price, Pick and Pay etc. One venture into these stores and see ordinary people including the lowest income brackets confidently strolling into them to buy their groceries at very affordable rates and in a most conducive environment. Same conditions exist in Europe and the US where the retail stores are easily accessible and affordable and the shopping experience is great for the customers. Another important point is that unlike Nigeria where you can count the number of good retail stores; these other countries have myriads of them at very reasonable distances. If you think about the stress of buying stuff in Mile 12 and Oshodi, you might prefer to stay in that country. Or am I lying?

2. Taking Your Babe or Boo Out
At a point or two, most of us had to take our partners out on a romantic dinner or fun day out. If I recall, the premium locations in Lagos can cause great damage to your purse. For example, I do not believe that a romantic dinner consists of a trip to TFC or Mama Cass but it should be to a Chinese, Thai or Italian restaurant maybe overlooking the ocean . But how many working class hippy Nigerians can really afford these places without having to dig deep into their salaries? Thus a trip to Marcopolo, Golden Gate, etc is not a very easy one talking about cash. One would think that going out to eat in the so called Western Worlds will be a costlier adventure especially in comparison to the Nigerian system and knowing that they are usually more beautiful and organized. But the reverse is the case as they are usually cheaper and with more polite and courteous staff that you would be willing to part with some gratuities after the meal. Our South African brothers on the same continent are way ahead of us in this too. I still remember one night in Sandton South Africa at a top restaurant when I went to eat out with 4 friends. We ordered all sorts including a treat called 24 wings and a massive rib. We also took nice desserts and when the bill came for 5 people – it was for only 600 Rands equivalent to 9000 naira. Can you beat that? So the question is – why is Nigeria like that?

3. Hotel Costs
It is amusing to note that hotels are cheaper in other countries than in Nigeria. If you have to go and do something in another city in those countries, you will easily find cheap hotels in those cities with great service. In Nigeria, the good hotels are simply outrageously costly. The cheaper ones that are still not cheap suck so much. Some even put off their generators at 12 midnight leaving you to a very uncomfortable night in darkness and immense heat. Once again, why?

My Thoughts

I believe that Nigeria has a big class problem. One that believes that all should not shop in the same facilities. Though this rule is not written but this form of apartheid exist. Take a trip to the Palms in Lekki and you will understand what I am saying. People dress to the malls as if there is a fashion contest going on there. I bet that a shabbily dressed individual will find it hard to enter those stores seeing the class of people coming in to buy there.
I do not think the prices of our restaurants and hotels are solely linked to market forces but a deliberate attempt to restrict the services to a select few. This raises some fundamental questions about Nigerian business men and their mentality. The Woolworth Franchise in Nigeria never made it whilst the South African counterpart has done so well. The reason is obvious – anyone is welcomed at the stores there. I have been wondering for a long time why many Franchises passed down from the US and Europe to SA are not in Nigeria despite the fact that Nigeria has a bigger market. MTN Nigeria makes more money than MTN SA so one can conveniently say that the population is a great advantage to Nigeria. So why don’t we have it in mind to provide good services to our people at lower prices and attract more customers than just the elitist few? Why can’t we have many conducive retail stores around our country providing cheap groceries including meat n vegetables without having to step into the mud and slimes? Why can’t there be restaurants, games arcades etc that one can go to relax without hurting our pockets? These are the questions that have been coming to me and I know that the entrepreneur in spirits reading this are already thinking of a solution. If you have traveled a lot, I am sure you understand where I am coming from and that you do not have to be rich to have a good quality of life. Our country provides a big opportunity for this new drive in entrepreneurship because of its huge population. Who is thinking the same way?

A much Anticipated Wedding

In another 33 hours or so – I will be on a flight to Nigeria to honor my words. A long time ago – I promised my good friend and brother – ‘Gbenga Sesan that no matter my location in this World – I will attend his wedding. I guess I am a man of my words and it is with great joy that I anticipate the union between Oluwagbenga Olabisi Sesan and Temilade Adeyinka Agbaje on the 16th n 17th January 2009. Interestingly, the Church wedding coincides with the bride’s birthday. What a wonderful birthday gift. I am so happy for them and I know that the almighty will bless their union in Jesus name. GS as we fondly call him has been a true friend n brother and we have gone through a lot together and still waxing strong. He was my best man when I married my love in July 2008. I will leave all other talks to when I give the toast at the wedding. My guy — ride on my man.

The world is presently at a crossroad now due to the prevailing economic crises which is not about to subside. Many companies have gone under including those that seemed too big to fall. A lot of people are out of jobs and the burden on governments to revive the economy of their respective countries is huge and one that might take many years to rebuild. All the same; it has been proven that when there is a crisis – it is mostly also a time for new opportunities.
Most of these opportunities will make more sense to countries dominated by goods and services from the developed countries. I believe that this will be a good time for African economies to wake up to the reality of the present situation and find ways to keep the money within the continent. Effectively what I am saying is that a lot of global big powers will crash due to the fact that consumers in the heavily affected super powers like the US and the UK lack the cash flows now and an example is Woolworth. Woolworth UK has officially closed but the Franchise in South Africa is still doing business and I doubt they will go under.
Isn’t it time for Africans to rise to the challenge now and stop waiting for the Western world to provide expertise and businesses for the continent? This brings me to the topic of today – Entrepreneurship.

According to Wikipedia.com – “Entrepreneurship is the practice of starting new organizations or revitalizing mature organizations, particularly new businesses generally in response to identified opportunities”

I love this definition so much because it gives a broad view of what it represents. Many flinch at the mention of this word because in Africa people attribute to a bleak and unknown future. Lets look at the key points in this definition to better appreciate how a paradigm shift in our thinking to Entrepreneurship will change our fortunes for good.

1. Practice: People don’t become entrepreneurs just by sitting down and complaining. Someone once said that you have to wake up from your sleep first before realizing your dreams. Entrepreneurs are agile people who dream but also take time to articulate and actualize their dreams.

2. New: One of the desires of an entrepreneur is to engage herself/himself in innovation. Innovation does not necessarily mean doing something that has never been done before but maybe finding better ways of doing them. Entrepreneurs most likely starts new businesses to address a need they discovered.

3. Revitalization: The ability to say no to status quo and the affinity for improvement is another hallmark of the entrepreneur. These are people who can turn around the fortunes of an ailing organization in a bid to make it more competitive and profitable. So this means that an entrepreneur is not only someone who starts a new company but someone who can revive or improve existing businesses.

4. Sharp Eyed: Most people walk around with their eyes closed to the happenings around them. And entrepreneur’s eyes are trained to key into all the details in a bid to analyze them. It takes an entrepreneur to be angry with the states of taxis in Lagos and decide there is a business in there. It takes an entrepreneur to be dissatisfied with the fact that the shopping experience for Nigerians is still woeful compared to other parts of Africa. An entrepreneur is always on the lookout for ways to improve the quality of life.

5. Responsive: Entrepreneurs do not just spot needs but go all the way to meet them. They are not used to sitting down to blame governments for not doing enough; they either teach the government how to meet those needs or go about it themselves. They are very energetic and sometimes people see them as being over excited.

6. Opportunities: Even in the midst of the present global economic challenge; some special set of people are forming new companies and generating new ideas to help humanity out of this problem. These people are not fazed by the negativity but are constantly identifying new markets.

I have laid a premise in defining who an entrepreneur is and I know you should be asking yourself if you are one. I am going to make the following points to help you determine if you are, will be or not.

1. Motive:
The main purpose of being an entrepreneur is not in the money gained but in meeting a need. Though history has proven that those who meet needs are also rewarded for their efforts which means that it is not a bad thing. If your main focus of starting a business is to gain money then it will most likely fail because that is not a novel idea as anyone can think of making money. Most of the World’s biggest entrepreneurs started with a clear idea of solving a problem or meeting a need. A good example is Richard Branson who started Virgin Atlantic as a result of his bad experiences flying traditional British airlines. Every other company he formed were done to address other needs and most times that leads to profit.

2. Model:
Our world today is faced with numerous challenges especially poverty, HIV Aids and other diseases as well as environmental challenges. An Entrepreneur is thus not necessarily a man who sells and buys goods but someone who takes on a special cause to make the world a better place. The world needs men and women who are passionate about helping our world to conquer the numerous problems it faces today. Men and Women with ideas of how to stop poverty, stop or reduce the HIV debacle and also find ways of rescuing our planet from the depletion of our Ozone layer. The concept of Social Entrepreneurship is now getting popular and we now know that even those who are not prepared to touch traditional business model can also make a difference in their world.

3. Integrity
It is so sad to see that a lot of business personalities in Nigeria are traceable to former government officials and even heads of governments. Most people even believe that one cannot be a successful entrepreneur without huge deposits from a corrupt leader and then serve as his/her front in running those businesses. That is not the characteristics of true entrepreneurs and integrity is the number one thing they hold on to.

4. Dissatisfaction With Mediocrity:
When an entrepreneur enters a restaurant; he notices the service he gets and if he is dissatisfied – his next thinking is how to provide a better service to people for their money’s worth. Many new businesses started on the basis of that. Africa is a ripe place for this as most service companies are so badly managed and if we have people who can turn this around – they are in for a good time.

5. A People Person:
If you are someone who cares about the growth of those around you – then you have the quality of an entrepreneur. A lot of companies fail because those who run it are not bothered about the people who work for them. Sustainable businesses will evolve when these new group of people evolve.

You can start today by looking around your work place for ways to improve service delivery. Note the points and see how you can exploit such avenues. Also look around when you travel abroad and see things you don’t have in your country. If you are the research oriented person – think of a way to turn around the problems inherent in your community and country as a whole. Then you are on your way to becoming an entrepreneur.

The first time I met Ayo Adedeji in Great Ife – my spirit concurred that he is a man to look out for in the future. He never disappointed us and today he carries about an aura of purpose and the drive to excel. From his University days – he exuded confidence in his ability and got some firsts. Becoming a Chartered accountant (ICAN) while studying for an Agriculture degree still amazes me till date. He is not a man to rest on his oars and his vision has seen him running successful businesses in Agriculture and Real Estate. He is a man this generation should emulate as we need more businesses to spring up if we are ever going to achieve the dream of a great Africa. As earlier promised – there will be a chance to hook up with our coaches in future. Enjoy the interview.

Who is Ayo Adedeji?

Chairman of Trucklot Nig Ltd, an Agribusiness company
Chief Operating Officer of FOYAA PDC LTD, a real estate company.

Where did you grow up?

Ibadan in Oyo state

Tell us about the primary school and secondary schools you attended

Primary
Ifelodun Community Primary School, Masfala area, Ibadan.
Was part of the first set to pass through the primary school (1986 set). Teachers were quite thorough and added in no small measure to molding me academically.
Secondary
Ibadan Christ Apostolic Grammar School, Aperin, Ibadan.
Quite challenging, with a mix from relatively good primary schools. The schools library was my best experience. Was Social Prefect. Biology was best subject.

You are an alumnus of Obafemi Awolowo University, was it fate that took you there or it was a deliberate plan?

Fate I would say.
I wanted University of Ibadan (Pharmacy).
I could not secure admission the first time so I chose to ignore U.I at my second attempt.
Still wanted to read Pharmacy in OAU but ended up with Agricultural Extension.
The love for Agriculture has always been there anyway.

Your days in OAU were very active as a student union activist as a parliamentarian as well as the chairman of the electoral committee. As a cool guy; why did you decide to involve yourself in school politics which is largely a playing ground for rough individuals?

It has always been in my head that you can never clean it by standing outside of it. The only way for evil to prevail, they say, is for good men to be quiet.
I perceived from the very first year in OAU that my time would be needed in the Student Union Government along the way.
The truth is that if you really have something to offer to your polity/environment and you decide not to do anything about it, then, your polity might be missing an element of development and transformation in you than you never offered.
We all love peace and freedom. Those things come at a cost. As long as we allow people without message to organize election, lead our people, formulate our policies, run the government, we would be going around in circles.
I wanted to be part of clean up process.
The SUG do not belong to the so called ‘rough guys’, it belongs to every bonafide student and so long as good people are standing up, the bad ones would have to expression medium.
Turn on the light and the darkness is out.
Much of what we need in Nigeria right now is light. We are currently locked up in darkness (my opinion).

How did you combine politics with Christianity and maintained your integrity at the same time?

I think it is really not difficult at that level.
For most of these issues of faith and sector activities, I make up my mind ahead of time.
The only major issue was some people walking up to me to negotiate a particular SUG presidential candidate.
I waived it off without stress.
My own life vision kept me going. Where I am going is too precious for compromise of any kind.

Tell us about your experience as Chairman of the electoral committee that organized a very difficult election in OAU?

I agree it was a difficult one.
Did not know we would end up with 48 or so names on the ballot paper. Nine (9) Presidential aspirants.
The Presidency was a concern and so it turned out to be.
A particular presidential candidate wanted to win at all cost because his group had scores to settle with the school authority.
In summary, the conservative people love their peace so much that they loose their time and freedom at many instances.
We must always be ready to stand up against evil, and fight is as necessary for such is the cost of freedom.

You became a chartered accountant before graduation. How did you do that?

Time, chance and courage!
Our first two undergraduate years were characterized by strike actions, a total of about eleven (11) months.
It was the thought of making the days count and adding value to the future that made me decide for the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and training under Excelle Investment Limited.
I guess it sounded quite awkward to so many that an undergraduate in Faculty of Agriculture is aiming to be a Chartered Accountant. Those that could summon courage enough told be it would be an effort in futility. Others told me you can do that and make anything out of OAU. Others were silent but their body language was enough.
I got chartered in part IV of a five year program.
The experience has been life changing: That, indeed, our only limitations are those we place on ourselves. That once own mind is conquered, you can continue to push on regardless of opinion of others.
There were failures and references along the way, but the joy of getting to the destination far outweighs the rigor of the journey. In other words, the prize would always be greater than the price.

In your own words and experience – what is leadership?

Leadership is the courage to be responsible for actions and directions of an entity, visions and mission of a people, rights and wrongs of an organisation.
Leadership is lonely, and anyone professing to be one should thus be aware.
It is not the world of the pessimist, for leadership requires optimism at all times.

While serving, you were already involved with some extra money making ventures in Abuja. Please share that experience with us.

I was lecturing and consulting for individuals on financial issues.
The very first place was PYE, Abuja.
Then I was approached when SKY ASSOCIATES LTD was to be registered as a Director.
That experience, in practical terms, made me realize there is no need for rocket science orientation while incorporating your company and registering your objects/business direction.

You were a banker from your NYSC days and beyond. What did you learn from that experience?

Positive and Negative:
Positive: Quite a wonderful start-off working environment for a fresh graduate. Operations are streamlined and individuals are responsible.
Relationship with colleagues and customers very important for your life and fortune might depend on it.
Negative: Nigerian banking environment is a safe landing point for your Nigerian graduates and a place to bury initiatives and ideas over time.

You left a very promising banking career to face your own business. How did you make that choice?

I made an assessment of my life and realized I was exercising my passion in the wrong place.
The question was asked: “Ayo Adedeji, do you want your life to be like those other top management staff in front of you and at such an age?”
The answer was “No”.
I felt my life was more than those salaries, allowances and loans. The life of an average Nigerian bank worker is defined by loan (credits). Nothing as changed since I left (2004).
A second level staff if in operating lease for Honda Accord 2008 and his net worth is 1,500 units of First Bank Shares. No landed property, no other investment initiative.

What were the preparations you made before resigning your appointment with the bank?

I got my business interest running.
The company was incorporated. Directors were invited as subscriber to the Memorandum and Article of Association of the company.
Other shareholders were invited.
All preoperational activities were concluded at the point of exit.

Describe your first few months after starting your farm?

Quite tough, but I was willing to go through it.
My believe: it is not the responsibility of your employer to make you rich. When you have a job, you are always Just Over Broke!
The company you are craving to work with was created by someone (or a group of investors) some years ago. The children that are just being born today, would they ever look up to work in a place you created or are a part of its creation.
The company you refused to set up at 30 years of age, 35 years of age because you have a job, you might be forced to set it up at 60 when they tell you the company is no longer interested in your service.
There is no such thing as financial security in a paid employment, as ex-staff of citi group laid off at various times in 2008.

What are the opportunities in the Farming industry for young people?

Quite a number:
Piggery
Snail Farming
Raising of grass cutter
Poultry
Fish Farming
Mechanised Maize production
Feed mill operation
Because of the capital intensive nature of some Agribusiness operations, young people should always look at joint investment to handle finance.
There, are however a number of operations individuals can handle alone or as partnership.

How did you fund the business?

By making the company’s shares available to investors for their funds. When an extra fund was required, we had a right issue.

Many cannot leave their salaried jobs because of fear of the unknown especially if they are married with kids. How did you rise above this fear?

Overcome the fear of failure.
The question is always: What if it fails?
We need to ask the other way: What if it works?
You know what? A job deprives most people of the time to think about themselves and generate ideas. There are so many things that can make money and change how we live and do business as a people. The answer may lie with you. Why die as General Manager of a company when you are actually supposed to be creator of numerous companies.
It’s just the courage to do it.
People that have done it before are no magicians. Read up the stories. Learn the techniques. Know about your competitive advantage as you step out. Follow the laws, ask questions, it would work for you.
For most people, they have the fire in their bones. They just need to step out of the boat. You can actually carry the things that are carrying you now
People that are married with kinds need ‘soft landing’ from paid employment. My advice is always that your business and cash flow should be running parallel to your paid employment inflow before disengagement

You are married with two lovely kids. What role does family play in your growth?

My wife is a serious supporter of my ideas.
At the initial testing times, she was there – unyielding as a rock. That helps a lot

I know you are diversifying into other sectors of the economy i.e real estate. Why did you choose real estate?

Real Estate is the currency of wealth that has stood the test of time (apart from rare Gems).
It has indeed been said that rich people either make their money or keep their money in real estate.
It is also an aspect that is greatly underdeveloped in Nigeria. An average 35 year-old Nigerian has got no space he can call his own. I believe we could change this and solve the problem.
To develop family is to develop the nation. It is tough to raise a family in a hostile environment. I am therefore contributing to changing the face of accommodation in the nation.

What are the opportunities in the Real estate industry now?

Various: Buy existing structure, repair and resell
Trade in lands
Build houses and let-out or sell-off
Manage estates
However, various aspects of real estate are regulated and you would do well to know who is authorized to do what in the sector.

Are Nigerian businesses run ethically? And what is the important of ethics to a business climate like Nigeria’s?

I do not think we are up there ethically.
Honesty is the issue here. Businesses and economies thrive on honesty. People trade on it. It is lacking around here
Impatience is the other. Our business environment has little or no respect for processes. We practically do not want to hear that it takes time for the seed to grow and produce fruits.

In your own opinion, what is the cause of the present world economic crunch and the lesson for the business world?

The problem is overtrading, from individuals to corporate entities. Even money trading were done on margins and financed with credit.
The truth is that paper money is not a measure of wealth and is subject to manipulations by policies and the likes.
The world actually threw caution to the wind in evaluating credits. Stock markets were not analysed on fundamentals but on day-to-day movements.
The operators would never tell the whole truth. Panic sets in and the real forces of demand and supply set it.
Then chaos, and that of the highest degree.
The lesson: Always watch against overtrading. Equity to Debt ratio should never be less than one (1).

If there is any businessman/woman you will love to spend 4 hours with – who would it be and why?

Wayne Malcolm – understanding of aggressive business take-over perspective in the 21st century.

Fola Adeola – Set up courage and power to walk away after establishment

Mike Adenuga - Balancing business and politics in Nigeria

Bill Gates - For remaining simple while commanding tremendous wealth and influence

A lot of people are asking the tough question – when do I resign and start my own thing. What are the signs and how can they go about it?

Until you are dissatisfied with your job, it’s not yet time to come out.
You need the passion to sustain you outside for after you have resigned, you should not look back at the bridge!

What keeps you going daily?

The picture of the vision.
Nothing is worth more than the vision.
The strength from the Lord is of uttermost importance. In all these things, without His help, it would be effort in futility.

People believe that you need to give kickbacks and get involved in some sort of corrupt activities to do big business in Nigeria. What is your take about it?

I believe kickback is a bad way to make it.
If anyone is successful by way of corruption, that should be termed ‘bad success’.
I also believe it is a matter of time; nature has a way of balancing the equations.

What is your next big project?

Building 15 flats at Isheri

Do you have a political future ahead? If yes what are your plans and vision for Nigeria? If no, why?

I have a strong consideration for a political future.
I have always believed the country would need my service at the highest level some day. Some of us are close-marking the current administration and are not satisfied at the slow pace of development.
I think the country can be better than this.
We can take our place in the top 10 most developed economy by 2050 and that is my vision. Our systems can work.
I would continue to add as much value as I can mutter before the big assignment.

Looking back at the years – would you say you made the right choice to start your entrepreneurial drive?

Right choice my dear. I cannot imagine myself in a paid employment by now. I would be miserable. The content inside is more than that.
I am also enjoying the control over my time. I schedule my meetings the way I want and go to various sites according to my plan.
I am also very flexible at short notice

What are the guiding principles of your life?

• The only limitations are those we place on ourselves.
• The Word of God is the most important document.
• Learn All You can.
• You can get anywhere from where you are.
• The future has no shape, except the one you give to it.

Advice to people who are waiting for government to distribute the wealth before doing something.

The government is too busy on state allied matter to create wealth for you.
Create the wealth and catch the attention of the government!

Final word to our audience

Unless we continue to manifest our God-given potentials, we can never reach the point of fulfillment.
The creator is waiting for you to create something, for such is His nature in you.
Achieve all you want

Thank you very much for taking out time from your busy schedule. You are highly appreciated.

2008 was a great year and I am so happy that after reviewing my activities – I can say that God has been so good. I have also promised God to do more in 2009 and ensure that the potentials he has put in me gets properly utilized. I will encourage all of us who dream to wake up and start realizing the dream. My post titled Effective Year planning should be able to help in articulating your plans for the new year.

Every new year affords us the opportunity to start afresh and correct the mistakes of the past years. It is a good time to understand that we can take charge again and relegate the events of the past into oblivion. Many at this time make new year resolutions they are not willing to sacrifice to keep; hence we all need a big level of discipline and tact to get the job done this year. I challenge us all to start the journey together and end it on a good note.

It is worthy of note that our goals should not just be for personal gains but for the total good of the human race right from our immediate environment to the world in general. A good contribution to a cause and the decision to do good can go a long way in determining how our world will be in 2009. As we start 2009; I pray that the almighty will reveal his heart for us this year to spur us on to activities that moves us near our goals.

Warning – the year moves fast and if you check the time now; 1-1-2009 is almost ending and that is the same way the whole year moves without most people doing anything. A little sleep, a little slumber will make the enemy to steal our time and goals for the year. I will encourage you to form an accountability club with your friends and mentors as a way of tracking your performance in the year.
I promise that this will be an exciting year for readers of this blog. Many life changing opportunities will come through this medium so please stay tuned. I will leave you with a promise from God to you this year in Psalm 91.

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, and from the noisome pestilence.

He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth shall be thy shield and buckler.

Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day;

Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; but it shall not come nigh thee.

Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked.

Because thou hast made the LORD, which is my refuge, even the most High, thy habitation;

There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.

For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.

Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.

Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.

He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.

With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.