Don't start your business with money......says Kelvin Olat Bakre

Can we meet you?

I'm Kelvin Olat Bakre. I'm a Nigerian, born and bred in Lagos, Nigeria. I'm the MD/CEO of KOBPLAN Global Ltd. with subsidiaries like Kobplan Realty Solutions; a real estate development company in Lagos Nigeria, with branch office in Ibadan, Oyo State. Chicken change data services, an online store and logistics company, and also Skaptom, a loan recovery firm. I can be called a serial entrepreneur. I love to do good legitimate business. I'm married with kids.

When did  you first venture into business?

Wow! My nick name is 'Apo' meaning 'Crocker fish'. I got that name when I joined my mum in her fish business. She had a large cold room in the 80's/ 90's at Bariga, Lagos. I became her secretary cum manager. I helped her in recovering most of her sales from some customers who owed her money. Many will come for more goods even without settling their outstanding. I told them then that if they wanted more goods, they all were to settle their debts. That was where I started developing my loan recovery skills. Later, as I grew older and went to college, I began organizing shows and events on campus for money. This was when I ventured into business.

Have you ever worked for anyone as an employee?

Yes! After my G2 (Pry 6 leaving  certificate) I worked at a company in Fola Agoro, Lagos. The salary was N33 bi-weekly. While I was abroad though, I worked as an independent sales representative for Century 21, a realty company, Calendar realty in Minnesota, USA amongst others. After this, I started Skaptom Auto Body. We were into auto repairs and mechanic shop. We refurbished accidental cars.

Can you recall your experience as a startup entrepreneur?

In 1999 in Minnesota, USA, I began a staffing company called Crocker staffing. We recruited and interviewed people for companies and these companies pay us commission for our services rendered. It was a little challenging in the beginning but we were able to drive on because our services were highly needed especially at short notices.

What motivated you to go into business?

I read a lot of books. Either Brian Tracy or Robert Kiyosaki will say that salary will never make you rich; it can only sustain you and your family. They further buttress the point that ‘the thing on the side’, which is having a business of your own is what we need to focus on. I have never in my life wanted to be a rich man; I only wanted to be comfortable like my father (God rest his soul) was. But when I went abroad, I saw a different path in life. Now I want to be a wealthy man. I look at the likes of Mike Adenuga, Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola etc. Like the footballers, they are rich but the person signing their cheques is wealthy;  although all is not about the money, I want to also make an impact and wealth is one of the many tools in doing so.

What mistakes taught you the most important lessons as an entrepreneur and what would you do differently if given another chance?

I'm still making mistakes. But specifically, as a startup in the Crocker staffing business, I put in all the money I had in the business; Thinking that within a month or two thereabout, I will make profit. Rather than diversify my earnings into other small businesses. For six months or so, I didn't get anything from it and I was broke. I also did not do adequate research in that area of business and on some of the things I ventured into. I read little. I also didn't consider my market and my target. I just felt my clients will come running to us as soon as they saw our flyers. How many people did I know could and would connect me or refer me in business was a question I didn't wait to ask myself. I also learnt how to play by the rules. Because of my color, rather than be the face of my business, I had to employ a white person who knew the terrain to do the marketing while I did other business operation.  I'm a quick learner.

Do you have a mentor in business? Has this made being an entrepreneur easy for you or otherwise?

My dad was my first mentor; though he was not in the forefront of our family business, we felt his impact in the background. Another is a dear friend of mine, Sayo Olagbaju, who introduced me to the realty business. He taught me the basics and the important little things in the field of real estate development. There was also a white weird man named John, I never knew his other name, but was good in the real estate business. He taught me selling.

What have been the most difficult moments as an entrepreneur?

One of my hardest moments has been with people. Some Nigerians are vultures. Sorry to say that; but some are crazy! That is the truth. Business in Nigeria is way different. In conducting your business here, you have to seat with your business or else people will ruin it and ruin you. It is unlike on the other side of the globe where you can rely on others to make your business grow successfully. Doing business here is like walking in the desert, the vultures will not harm you, but will keep watching you until you fall before they devour you. They will not attack you, but wait for the moment when you lose footing. Some people will follow you waiting for the moment when you make a mistake or when you become frustrated and they destroy you. Another was at the beginning, it was somewhat difficult to blend in also getting money from clients makes things difficult at times. It is as if some clients just love to owe you; when you threaten them, it does not move them an inch. In the realty business, the 'omo-onile' issue is a major challenge. Once it resulted into gunshots while I was on one of our landed properties. Before I went abroad, I mingled with the street and I learnt how to deal with the street in their own language.

Describe your business. When also did you get your big break and what project are you working on at present?

I started Kobplan in 2010 with the ‘N1000 a day’ plan. This plan states that if you can set aside 1000 naira every day, you can own your own home within the shortest possible period. In Kobplan, you can buy a credible land space and build a proper house for yourself in choice areas. For my big break, I have not gotten my big break yet; though people might say otherwise. Presently, we are working on three different building projects; the Kobplan THOMWAL MEADOWS, Kobplan Heights and CLARION City.

What are the challenges you encountered starting up your business and how did you mitigate them?

I make sure that I don't take work home. I solve business problems as they arise. There are not straight rule as to solving them. I go through with them as they come.

It is a popular saying that 'people buy you before they buy your product' what's you take on that?

This is what sells our product and services. I like to be straight forward especially with my clients. I like to do business on clear terms and conditions. Integrity is crucial in business. Real estate is all about referral. I also keep records of conversations and business dealings. This helps me to put tabs on operations. I try as much as possible to be consistent; my word is my bond. If I cannot meet a deadline or an agreed date and time, I try to reach my client, explaining the situation and we reschedule. We make sure we put pen to paper.

As an entrepreneur, do you stick to the rules of the game or you take the flexible stance on decision making?

There is no static rule in business. Some people however, do not believe so. There are the basics surely, but ultimately, there are no hard and fast rules to decision making in business. You have to be flexible in your decisions, always weighing your options.

Have you ever had external funding for your business? How then have you been able to raise funds?

I never had external funding. Every fund was from my savings, my wife's and children savings. We also sold some of our shares.

For those who want to venture into this area of business, how would you advice they go about it?

I'll say, forget about the money you have. Do not bring your money into the business. Without money, you make your business work better. Burn your bridges-so to speak. When you think you have back up funds stashed somewhere, you might likely waste it on ventures that should be for the future. People will push you into doing things you should not. I have lost a couple of funds on properties that were not genuine. Also learn to start business small. And then you move up gradually. People will call you chairman, but they will not be there if you fall. Only God is the chairman. Don't care about what people say; work hard.

With the present economic climate in Nigeria, how have you been able to maintain business growth and profitability?

I'm proud to say that Kobplan does not owe its staff any salaries. God has been our strength. We cut our coat according to our sizes. In the past, we paid salaries, imprest and allowances, but as things began to change, we introduced the KPI (key performance index) rewarding system. The imprest and allowances remain though. We placed everyone on a target which determines their perf-ormances. I don't want people to work for me; I like people to work with me. I also don't like to work with people who are comfortable being mediocre.

With the proliferation of the real estate business, how have you carved out a niche for yourself?

Well, in Ibadan city, we have made a name for ourselves by offering quality services and reliable properties. We keep our word of promise and give no room for questionable characters or service. We are involved in community development and carry out our basic civic duties, even going the extra mile to create orderliness in heavy traffic has helped my business.

To your wife Adekemi Bakre, tell us about chicken change and also how you have been able to manage business, as an actress and a movie producer and family?

Chickenchange is an online store and a logistics business where you can name your price and haggle until you are satisfied with your negotiations. This was a birthday gift from my husband. It is a responsive platform where you can purchase any household item. We walk with vendors but do the deliveries and the logistics ourselves. For family, whenever I am not around, especially when I'm on location, I get someone to stay with my kids overnight. This was when they were younger. I also try as much as possible not to travel for a long time on a stretch. Sometimes, I reject some jobs just to be with my family. For the online business, we hire the experts to manage the technical aspects of it.

Words for upcoming entrepreneurs.

It is good to want to run a business; it is a bad thing to run a business and allow it to fold or fail. Work with people who will help your business grow. Learn the ropes of the business before you venture into it. Forget about your certificate, get training from those who are established in your line of interest, learn the challenges and their mistakes so you know what to do when they arise.

Final words?

Rather than spend money on frivolous things, put money in business. Invest in things that will multiply your earnings so that in the nearest future, you can buy your heart desire. To the parents, please do not force your children to be adults. Let your kids do kids' stuff, just watch over them and guide them. Allow them to flow with their age. Always ask them questions.

Meet Italian Cole: An Engineer turned Gold Merchant who loves to transact.

Tell us about yourself?

I'm Cole Anuoluwapo; popularly known as Italian Cole, which also serves as my business name. My aka was made up about four years ago representing Italian gold, which is my major business focus - Italian for Italian gold and Cole for my name. I'm very passionate about pure original gold and so decided to turn my passion into a business venture. so,  I deal in real, pure and original Italian gold. 

What is your educational background like?

I'm an engineer by profession. NSE graduate member hoping to be COREN certified very soon. I studied environmental engineering in my first degree and going for my master in industrial and production engineering at the university of Ibadan, the first and best!

What are your passions, hobbies and interests?

My greatest passion in ascending order: I love to transact; I can sell an empty sachet of water. I love to transact anything that deals with the exchange of goods and services for money. I also love traveling to unknown places where people do not know me, spend a few days and return home. It makes me feel like I'm lost.

What values do you hold dear where life is concerned and in business?

I'm very perseverance, plain and transparent. So much so that everyone can see through me if possible. This I have been able to transferred into my business dealings. In some cases though, when offering some services, you might have to bend especially in the area of pricing, as a result of the nature of your clients per time. What I say to my customers is what it is. When I say something is 100% top notch quality and can give a 20 years guarantee as in the products we deliver, it surely is. I think this is where transparency comes to play for me.

How do you deal with impossible customers?

Every day in business, you meet different people: the angry, difficult and the impossible... the friendly and easy going type. Some do not even care; just deliver anything good to them. In all, when you keep your cool and maintain a smiling front, you will always win people over to your side. That way, you have won! I'm sorry but with all humility, I'm pretty; that's on a lighter mode please! When someone comes in, I always have that smile for everyone. I'm not a sales rep but I love to play that role if need be. Smiling comes to me naturally. I talk to everyone with a smile on my face. I pay

attention to my clients, listening attentively to what they have to say as I try to convince them. When angry clients come calling, saying all sorts, I just keep smiling and calming them down until a solution is proffered and they go home smiling in satisfaction.

What mistakes have you made in the past and what life lessons have you learnt?

Before I went into business, I used to be a very big snob. I was always on my own, doing my own things. I ignored people. I was the only female in a male dominated profession in the university. I was snobbish. But coming into business, I had to change completely. I needed to come out of my shy and snobbish nature, overcoming that part of me.

If you could time travel

If I could time travel back a few years past, I would have been more friendly to people, be serious with my academics. Don't get me wrong, I was a near first class student but at that, I would have taken the whole schooling thing more seriously.  I might not have let go some friends I had or lost contact with them. If I was this happy say four years ago, I would have done better. I have always had time on my side and to my advantage. Things always fell in place for me quickly and easy. That didn't make me really struggle for anything. For example, my graduation from  higher institution and NYSC was just a space of 4 days. This reflects other things in my life. Because things always seem easy, that didn't make me appreciate some things. I would have ventured into business early and take some major steps like accepting my father's offer to relocate abroad. (laughs)

Where are you now and where do you see yourself in the next few years?

Presently, we deal with 100% pure genuine and new Italian gold jewelry straight from Dubai and Italy. we sell Gold chains, Bracelets, Wedding bands/rings, Earrings, Cords and much more. In the next few years, I see myself as a major gold merchant not just in Nigeria but across Africa. I'm working towards it. I don't know how I will get there but it sure is feasible. If your dream or vision does not scare you, then you are not dreaming at all.

Why venture into gold dealing?

I started the gold business a few years ago in my 300 level at the university. I woke up one faithful day, looked at my phone and saw a news flash, so so so and so person hits blah blah blah…. She was a woman; a female entrepreneur worth over seven 0s doing what she was passionate about and then I told myself, Anu…you really need to go into business, doing something you are passionate about and that you love. So basically I decided to go into it. At 5am in the morning, when you see such a thing, it causes you to think.

How’s business doing this days?

Presently, gold business is not so encouraging. It is still the same transaction but the dollar naira exchange rate has affected a lot of things. The customer patronage has reduced as a result of the state of the economy. Before, pure gold was 19,000 naira/gram but as at now it is way above that. Business is a bit slower which I know cuts across almost all sector.

How do you source for your merchandise?

We get our goods from a reliable merchant in Lagos, Nigeria. She took me as the little girl she never had. I give her money and she buys them for me anytime she travels to Dubai or to Italy. I intend going to Italy or Dubai to buy in bulk myself  in the nearest future rather than buying in retail.

In this critical time in business, how have you been able to maintain your customer base and gain their trust?

Many gold merchants are the same. Some get you cheap gold washed in chemicals to look new. When you buy them and it begins to change color, you go back to pay twice the amount you should have bought real gold from us originally. For us at Italian Cole, it is our culture to buy back from our customers the gold they bought from us years after if the money exchange rate is still stable. This shows the quality of the goods we sell. Not many gold merchants do this. With this, we maintain our customer base and client loyalty. This is also to gain the trust of the customer.

What are your non work habits that helps you with your work life balance/

I can't take my eyes and mind off something that is out of place. Everything has to be in place- not slanted or disorganized. I love order. So much so that I repaint my house with a touch of paint where I see a little stain. I usually have an extra bucket of paint and small brush for such quick renovations. Everywhere in my house is painted white. When I give birth I would probably use wall papers to maintain that order. Punctuality is also a thing for me, it gives you a sense of seriousness. for accountability,  my record books are always in order; this makes my transactions easy. My customers know that I know what i'm doing.

What’s your take on ‘Preparation meeting Opportunities’?

I prepare a lot. You cannot catch me off guard. I might bump into somebody that asks me one direct question 'what do you want me to do for you?”. I don't like to say 'can I get back to you sir/ma on that'. Business wise, I do some transactions that scare me. I'm never off guard. I can starve myself to achieve something.

Are you into other business investments?

I'm into various investment. Presently I'm into 2 major business investments and in partnership with 3 others. I'm into a money making fund account with a fund company with a branch in Lagos. I have local investment in motor bike transportation business. I'm in partnership with a company involved in gold plating services and many others.

Golden words to business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.

Do not look down on anyone. that person wearing a bathroom slippers and shorts might be worth billions of dollars and the other well suited up with a polished accent might just be worth empty words and not be willing to spend a kobo. Don't measure people by their outward appearance. Go out of your way to be nice and friendly, you don't know who might pick up interest in you to make you a billionaire and more. When you smile, you have over a 98% chance that everyone will say something positive about you. It might not happen immediately. Aside that, have a open heart to everyone.

Deal with a trust-worthy Gold merchant;

Contact us @ ItalianCole on 08069327358, 08021148500.

Delivery coverage area: Nigeria, Ghana, Malaysia and Cyprus.

DATINA DESIGNS: Fashion Beyond Creativity

ATINUKE SMITH is an entrepreneur per excellence and a trail blazer who is impacting positively  in the world of fashion with the most incredible designs and tremendous business sense. In her interview with THE STARTUPRENEUR, she shares her life experiences, challenges and values with the world...

Let’s meet you.

I'm Atinuke Smith, an enterprising Nigerian based fashion designer and also the Chief Executive Officer of Datina Designs Fashion House and Fashion School. I have been in the fashion designing business for over 20 years. I am also a franchise owner with Europa Groups, which has a chain of over 1100 retail fashion stores worldwide; I run Europa fashion retail outlet store in the city of Ibadan and also Tibile Fashion where we showcase my clothing line under two brand labels Datina Designs and Tinu Smith. Aside my formal education, I  studied Entrepreneurial Management at the Educational Development Center, Pan Atlantic University, Lagos Business School. I'm a You-Win 3 awardee of the Federal Government Empowerment Program for SME's.  Over the years we have equipped and empowered over 300 people with various vocational skills since the inception of the business. I have divergent skills in beads making, interior decoration and I'm passionate about youth empowerment. I'm happily married to Engr. Olubunmi Smith for over 21 years and blessed with two lovely children.

Why and how did you begin your fashion business?

Growing up, my dream was to go into broadcasting, writing and speaking. My mum used to be a designer who got trained outside the country. But even at that, I didn't think I would venture into the fashion design and cloth making business had my tertiary education in Ilorin where I studied Communication and Religious Studies  During my youth service year in Ibadan, I leaved with someone who was a tailor. She was very good at what she did. As I watched her, I suddenly began to take interest in fashion designing and tailoring. Though my mum made lovely designs but at the time I wanted to do something else. I took a special interest in her work the woman I stayed with did while serving,  I went in the line of my interest and enrolled to train under her for a year while still serving. I knew this was what I wanted to do and nothing else.

We started with female wears and ran it for a very long time. When we officially launched our fashion line, we included our male collection as a result of high demand and frequent request from people.   .

How were you able to weather the storm as peculiar as Ibadan economy is?

Ibadan! I can say that I'm one of the trail blazers in fashion designing in this city. It was slow when we started. We started with one machine at first in a very small room. At that time there were no shopping malls, e-commerce platforms, no run way shows no networking and all that. Everyone was doing small business transaction here and there. The internet was not even there. People didn't know you were doing anything anywhere. One thing that however made it a bit easy for me was the solid skills training I had acquired. I want to state at this point that business management knowledge is key to thrive in business. But at the time I didn't have any such skills which was a negative for me; no accounting knowledge, money management skill etc. My sewing and designing skill was all that I had. I had to learn on the go. For a greater part of the years, I was going in circles. As the money was coming in, it was going out. I didn't know how to do marketing, yet I was the marketer, customer care officer, receptionist, accountant, and CEO. I was everything rolled up in one. As we grew, I employed some staffs and admitted some students. Things however started changing; Ibadan began to open up to business. Then we started putting money back into the business. We grew to taking a flat, having our own show room and other outlets. Presently, we have our work station and show rooms. The growth has been gradual but it's been worth it.

Looking back over the years, can you say you are fulfilled?

Fulfillment to me is about being able to make impact in the lives of other people. This is the part I enjoy the most, being able to empower the younger ones. The training gives me fulfillment because I'm able to give what I have back to others and  see them grow. Some are now bigger names and brands than me. It's amazing to see what they can do with what you have given them. That's my greatest joy. And being able to bring out something from my mind and create them into real designs. I don't think I can do anything else.

How long can aspiring fashion designers train with you?

Our training is 6 months for female wears, 6 months for male. The cost is about 200, 000 Naira.

What inspires you and your designs? I take my inspiration from God. He is my source and compass; my direction.  I'm also inspired by nature, colors, textures, objects, patterns and fabric.

What personal values do you hold dear and how have you been able to transfer these values to your business as an entrepreneur?

Don't try to be like anybody else. Be you. Be original. Be who God has made you to be. Don't be apologetic about who you are. Be bold to be who you were created to be. It is core for me. I don't copy anyone and I don't want to pretend to be who I'm not. I am me. Be bold to stand anywhere. Be truthful to God and to yourself and be accountable. If God is ok with me, you will eventually be ok with me. In business I try to be straight with my clients. I always maintain a good relationship with people around me including problematic clients. I see my customers beyond who they are. Some of them have become family to me. I attend their private functions whenever they invite me and vise versa. I counsel a lot of my clients on life issues; we share a lot. It's like a ministry to me.

In your over 20 years as an entrepreneur, how do you deal with problematic customers?

I try to be truthful as I can, please as many as I can. The fact is that a good entrepreneur and business person does not tell even a problematic client not to patronize you again. When confronted by an angry client, you calming them down. But for some, you might eventually stop them from coming after doing all you can within your power to please them to no avail. We try not to be confrontational. If any of our clients go away in anger, we find a way to amend the situation and deliver their orders to them at their doorstep. We meet them half way.

What's unique about your designs?

You cannot pin us down to a particular style.  We work with a fashion standard that is distinctive and inimitable especially to my other contemporaries in the same field.  We are known for our attention to details, precision, perfect and stylish cuts with imaginative thinking and artistic trendy touch which has carved out a niche and has kept our designs as it is required by the ever evolving world of fashion. We believe fashion should be classy, eclectic and comfortable which are prominent features of my clothes. We are flexible and deal with a variety of collections. I don't like being bored or to remain constant. I like variety; I'm versatile in nature. I like and use bright colors except I'm working on our male collection. Even at that, we put a touch of brightness on it. Our collection has a lot of personality expressions. We love to see you comfortable when you wear our collection and  not because it's in vogue. We create your style. We go beyond what is on the catalog to capture everyone's unique shape - teens, young adults, old people and the upward mobile etc

What is your fashion ideology?

The fashion world is evolving, becoming more dynamic and interesting. There is room for growth for everyone in the industry. Recently, a show was done in Nigeria and out of 100 designers, there were 83 clothing designers alone and then others, this shows the industry is becoming wider and bigger. But with that we can still serve this nation. The whole of Africa is waiting for us. Europe is waiting also. If you are good at what you do, you will find your niche.

How have been able to carve out a niche for yourself?

My foundation in designing and sewing was solid. Not like some young people who are half baked and just keep jumping around. Some are not even ready to learn the nitty-gritty of the business. If your training is good and you treat yourself well, It will give you an edge. Avoid photocopying everyone that comes your way. Be original and unique. Express yourself in your collection. Carve a niche for your brand. My clients say they can recognize my designs anywhere the go even without looking at the label. This says a lot about our distinct features. Be your own brand - let your brand be you.

In business, what is that thing you believe is true that most people say it isn't?

Majority believes that money is everything. I disagree; strategy is bigger than money. It's a fact that money is somewhat the fuel of business. But above money is strategy. If you are given a million naira, without good planning and strategy in place, that money will go to waste. You will not be able to account for money spent. Strategy helps you send your money on errand, without it, your money will send you on errands not planned nor budgeted for.

What creative strategy do you use to execute your ideas on minimal cash flow?

Collaboration is key. No one is an island. I've discovered that you cannot do anything on your own. That's the strategy that I use. I make sure I look for people I can work with.  The overhead is cheaper.

Do you test your assumptions and how?

I do a prototype, usually for clothes. I produce one and put it on myself or on a mannequin. Then wait and see how people reacts to it. With their reactions, I know if it will go to the market. If it scales the test, we mass produce.

How do you minimize the unknown?

In business, there is no perfect season. There will surely be the high, the lows. the gray areas. I try as much as possible to minimize my loss by testing out people's reactions to our new products. In cases where an outlet is not doing well, rather than close up shop, our strategy is to possibly change the collection there, reduce the price, experiment with possibly cheaper but quality fabrics but different designs.

How do you conquer those moments of doubt that so often stifle or stop many entrepreneurs with great ideas? What pushes you through?

I just take a step forward. I'm very bold and impulsive, a goal getter. I'm also very decisive. Once I make up my mind to do something, I go for it and do it. Even if it doesn't work, I count my losses and examine my mistakes. I'm not timid about any-thing. I think very well before I do anything.

What customer relations style do you adopt?

Relationship is key with my customers. For me, conversing with them goes beyond whatever it is they have come to do or taking their measurements. I don't remain official with my clients. I reach out to them on a personal note also making sure that when they think of me, the relationship aspects come to play in their hearts first. I try to keep a balance though, by not being over familiar and not overly formal.

Have you ever turned down a client?

May be.,,,possibly  when they were rude to my staffs. If I treat my staffs well, they will treat my customers well. I don't take sides with my clients against my staff in public. If the client is abusive, I remain diplomatic on both sides. If you treat your staffs badly they will mess up your business. Your clients will go, your staffs will remain. When my staffs are on the wrong, I however instill the necessary discipline. We try to create a balance.

What do you look for in an employee?

Character first, then your skills. Loyalty is also it for me; standing with me at all times.

How have you been able to mitigate the challenges you face in business?

It is on the lips of people that there is recession and it is biting hard. This may be for a fact but it is not as bad and terrible as people are saying making it seems as s if the economy has totally crumbled.  If you have a structured system in place before the recession, things might just slightly change but not totally fail.  Every business has its highs and lows, these seasons will come. We always have to get ready for the rainy and the dry seasons. If you have been used to getting ready for these seasons, you will not be shaken too hard. When you also leverage on your relationships, networking and collaboration, it will help in the tough times. You help others and they help you in turn. We keep pushing together until the season is over.

What does the future hold for Datina designs and its subs?

In the next 1 to 2 years, we are looking forward to massively expanding to other African countries like Kenya and others; We are taking our ready to wear collection outside the shores of Nigeria, looking to partner with clothing retail outlets in Europe. Some have written to us for supplies. The future is sure and bright for us.

Your golden advice for startups and other existing business owner.

Training is important. Business management knowledge is also key. Balance your skills with business management training. Be inspired by others but don't photocopy others and lose your identity. Be yourself. Express yourself to remain different. 

Any precious words to the world?

My heartbeat is for entrepreneurship in Nigeria and Africa. Its time to produce and manufacture, China is where it is now as a result of its production and manufacturing. White collar job is good but acquire a skill. Turn your passion into a money making venture. Contribute your quota to build the new Nigeria we all dream of.

Our addresses:

No 66, opposite conoil filling station, Adjacent The Polytechnic of Ibadan, Sango Eleyele road.

Shop V2, Europa stores, Ventura Mall, Samonda, Ibadan .

DATINA DESIGNS

Tibile collections

Shop 16 , Railway shopping complex,

Opposite Aleshinloye Market

Ibadan

Website: www.datinadesigns.com

Facebook page: Datina Designs

Instagram: @Datina Designs

Phone no: 08161163395, 08023451100

DO THESE TO FAIL IN BUSINESS

The business world is a no nonsense one. You are either in or out; it is your choice. It is however a great thing to put in all efforts to make your business thrive and rise above failure and an eventual fold up. Statistics had shown that startup businesses face the risk of failure within the first three years of business operations as a result of any but not limited to these factors:

• Lack of commitment and dedication to the vision of the business venture
• Inadequate or lack of operational funds to continue the business
• Bad business decision making as a result of no or poor market research before the commencement of the business. 

On the other hand, it could be ignorance or lack of current information of business processes on the part of the promoter of the business if it already existing. Application of understood accurate Information is the lifeline of any thriving business.

·               Lack of or inadequate entrepreneurial and business management skills.

As important as the money factor is in business, it is minimal in its significance and order of priority for business success. You could have all the money in the world to begin a business and you might not make a success out of it, thus making it viable.

To experience business failure and eventual fold up, do the following:

Do not start small:

The best way to measure the success, failure and risk of a growing business is to begin small. Beginning small however is relative. One person's level of smallness might not be the same for another. Starting small opens you up to less resource wastage. This however, does not put a limit on your global thinking. I believe that in business, you should think globally but start local. Starting small helps you to innovatively lay down strategies on executing your business with minimal cash flow. Appreciate your baby steps. e.g consider the option of barter (with your skills) than paying for a service with cash or a partnership for the use a premises for free; rather than rent an office, you could temporarily share with someone not in your lin-e of business or a complimentary business until you can afford an office/shop.

Do not carry out a market research:

A market research or survey is the continual process of taking out time to thoroughly study the market (people, price, location, trends etc) of the product and services you are offering. In doing this, ask yourself questions like: who are my direct and indirect customers/clients? Direct and alternative competitors? Why will they buy from me as against buying from others? What is the present state of the mind set of possible clients? Is my service/product. seasonal? is my price competitive? What strategy can I put in place to attract, sustain and take over clients from other competitors? Is my product/services easily accessible especially in terms of my business location? What are my strength, weaknesses, opportunities and possible threats? Do I employ casual staffs as against full time staffs? etc.  Conducting a market research reduces the possible risk of business failure to the barest minimum.

Budget on not so sure funds you are expecting and also rely solely of the promises of prospective clients:

As a startup, work with whatever funds you have at hand or in the bank. This implies that you are not to begin spending on whatever you think you are expecting as revenue from a particular deal

before it comes. It is like building a castle in the air. Some clients make promises and fail. Some, deliberately while others could be as a result of sudden unforeseen circumstances. Thus, so as not to be disappointed, for every word of promise in business, learn to have a plan B & C in the case of eventualities…street knowledge!  Until a deal is sealed and money exchanged for service rendered, your business transaction has not been completed. At this point, avoid borrowing or taking a loan for personal needs resting on the premise of expected revenue. A loan could be allowed in the case of a viable short term business opportunity with calculated and measured risk. A loan is money spent in advance; it reduces the value of efforts made in any business transaction and also places an unnecessary burden of your profit. Before taking a loan, make sure you have exhausted all possible options of raising funds.

Spend time with time wasters:

A business person with good business sense can measure if a prospective client will do business or not within the first three minutes of discussion given the right condition and circumstance. Do not spent time with time wasters. They can be identified by the words they say, their body language and immediate silence response to your proposal. Actions speak louder than words. Some prospects might say 'no' initially giving you valid reasons for not doing business, but with further friendly and intelligent discussions, they eventually buy you. Thus, don't take a 'No' for an answer from the right people. Keep trying.

Depend on yourself alone: 

No one is an island of skills and knowledge, strength and vigor. Learn and cultivate the power of synergy.  In down moments in business, connect with people who will motivate and encourage you. In the case of 'brain block' where nothing seems to flow, visit friends who you can share thoughts with, thus opening you up for brainstorming, innovation and creativity. Two are better than one. I have older friends in business that I pick their brains with critical questions. They know me for that….brain picker! Not an idea thief…there is a difference.

Always reject business opportunities:

Why not if not' is a motto that drives me towards wealth creation. 'Why not, if not' is another way of saying 'Never say Never'. Do not reject business offers, no matter how small the contract is. You might not have the technical know how to execute the job but you should have direct access to someone who has the technical ability to do the job. This is where the power of synergy comes to play. This will build your business/entrepreneurship profile, expand your horizons, and connect you to key individuals and much more. This should however not stop you from specializing in your area of passion. Be known for something.

Always procrastinate, throw away integrity and take up a lazy stance:

o not postpone what you can do today to another time. Seize every moment as an opportunity to prospect your business to someone. Opportunities are always hidden in problems; always seek for problems. Integrity pays; give no room for clients to doubt your character or question your integrity even in tight and difficult situation. Integrity is your sure referral. Hard, fast and smart work and consistency never fails a person who is determined to succeed.

Omolola Elsie .E.

Business developer/HR Expert

08035468723

SHOP MASTER: Inventory is our Priority

Hi there! Do you own a supermarket or a pharmacy store? Are you into buying and selling or a business that involves inventory? If so, SHOP MASTER is for you. SHOP MASTER is an inventory control system, which allows you to store all necessary information on your every transaction. This control system helps you record all purchased and sold items, it automatically deducts purchased items from the total stock; it reflects your debtors account, creditors account, price of purchase, date of payment and the personnel responsible for every transition. With this software, inventory is our priority - this is the nucleus of SHOP MASTER.

This peculiar inventory control management system is mostly used by business organization involved in buying and selling. In his words, Kolawole Adeosun, the MD/CEO of MASK DATA SYSTEMS, the developers of SHOP MASTER says 'the purpose of inputting Information Technology to business process is to aid and ease business operations and also for quick decision making'. With his vast experience in the IT sector, he expresses that 'it is for a fact that every customer is a potential advertiser for your business. When you satisfy your customers and go an extra mile to meet their needs they remain loyal to you. When you give more than they have paid for, they also remain loyal to you.'

Every customer wants to be treated specially; especially during special days and events. Some appreciated it when you call them or their children on birthdays; when you check up on them, some love it when u check up on their staffs also. When you see a client or customers in the time of distress, many appreciate it when you offer free advice no matter how little. He further explained that for him, during festive period or days of heavy sales, lending a hand of assistance at their sales point shows that you can go the extra mile to see their  business succeed.

As an IT entrepreneur, he says many factors could cause you to venture into business. For him, it was the embargo on employment, underemployment and further encouragement from one of his lecturers in the higher institution. To be a successful entrepreneur, you have to be dogged and focused.

Rejecting job offers should not be a regular occurrence in your business; this would cause a gradual fold up of the venture. But in the cases where a business man or woman is forced to reject job offers what could call for this? Insincerity from the clients, when the job goes against your moral values and personal values. But all in all, learn to deal with difficult and impossible clients in different subtle ways towards a positive and continuos business relationship.

The online version of the SHOP MASTER will be out for sale very soon. It enables its users to  be able to manage and monitor every sales and purchase inventory from their mobile phones through an internet platform. With this, you know what is going on even while you are out on holidays, vacations or when you are indisposed.

For young entrepreneurs he says “ carve out a niche for yourself. The market is wide, concentrate on your core competent areas. Be honest with yourself, be dogged. Have a true sense of character and above everything, your customers want results not stories. No matter what, give them good results.”

KOLAWOLE ADEOSUN

MD/CEO Mask Data Systems

Shop D9/10, Skymem shopping complex, Wuse Zone 5, FCT Abuja.

13a, Egunjenmi SK (data building),

Dugbe alawo, Ibadan;

08023387782, 09096660635.

Wenger blames sport analysts for fans anger

Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger has subtly blamed football analysts for the 'Wenger Out' protests which have escalated in recent weeks.

Defeat to Bayern Munich saw fans take to the street to protest the Frenchman's prolonged stay at the Emirates.

Speaking after Arsenal's FA Cup win over Lincoln City, Wenger said fans are being brainwhashed by what the pundits and analysts say.

He gave the example to Barcelona's now infamous win over PSG in the Champions League saying pundits who claimed the Catalans were outstanding 10 mins to the end of the game were those who also criticized them after they lost

He said: “You can’t live in an isolated world. When you’re a footballer, even if you don’t read it you’re told what ­people think. You can’t live in a world where you can’t be influenced by ­anything.

“For example, I watched the last 20 minutes of PSG v Barca again. It’s ­interesting when you see all the conclusions that come out of the game.

And the same people who spoke after the game said with 10 minutes to go that PSG was ­absolutely outstanding. Ten minutes later, they’re absolutely rubbish. People brainwash you with what they think is right.

“Get out of that heated ­atmosphere and look at things in an objective way. Sometimes it confirms what people say. Sometimes it doesn’t"

Wenger also joked that his experience in the game means he could delve into pundity and football analysis like many people.

“I managed about 2,000 games – I might know a ­little something about the game as well.” 

Theo ­Walcott’s first half stoppage-time shot gave Arsenal the lead at the break agaonst Lincolm City.

The second half saw Olivier Giroud, Alexis Sanchez, Luke Waterfall’s own goal and Aaron Ramsey score to give Arsenal the win over the National League visitors

N'Golo Kante goal leads Chelsea to victory over Man Utd

N'Golo Kante scored and produced a man of the match display that saw Chelsea record a 1 - 0 win over rivals Manchester United in the FA Cup on Monday night.

Before the match, Jose Mourinho claimed Antonio Conte's success at the club could be traced back to his influence at the club.

United was without the suspended Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney and Anthony Martial for the match and started with Marcus Rashford upfront.

United looked to be in control of the early exchanges until Herrera was sent for with his second booking of the night.

The Spaniard was first booked for a body check on Hazard and minutes later was shown a second yellow for a cynical challenge on the Belgian

Maroune Fellaini replaced Henrikh Mhkitaryan as Mourinho went defensive.

Kante scored the only goal of the match when he picked up a pass from Willian just outside the box and sent a low shot to the bottom of the net

United threatended on the counter through Marcus Rashford who outwitted Gary Cahill with a nice bit of skill but not Courtious who did well to deny the Englishman.

The win sees United go into the semi-final of the FA Cup where they face Tottenham Hotspurs.

In the other semi-final, Arsenal face Manchester City at Wembley.

51-year-old woman killed in twin buildings collapse in Abeokuta,

Modupe’s‎ husband, Samuel Bankole, a teacher, told journalists the family had been living in the building in Olomore for over 12 years.

He said he was preparing his lesson note when the incident happened adding that the owner of the building had died two and half years ago while the building was being managed by a caretaker.

He said: “My wife told me in the house that she was going to prepare food. After finishing the preparation, she came to me and took a small mat and a pillow and spread it out to take breeze. She spread it even very far away from the collapsed decking.

“I was preparing my own note of lesson that time. I told her that when I finished writing, I would join her there

“When I finished, I came out. Few children were moving up and down there until suddenly a neighbour called them and sent them on errand.

“My last born came back from his place of apprenticeship and even slept beside the mother. He later left to see a friend.

“Shortly after, I just heard the sound of the collapsed decking over my head. I believed that since my wife was not directly under that thing, she was safe and I just ran outside and started shouting: ‘thank you Jesus’.”

He added that his wife died shortly after arriving at the hospital.

The permanent secretary of the ministry of Urban and Physical Planning, Yetunde Dina, who visited one of the scenes, said the state government would investigate the incidents and decide if to bring down the remaining part of the collapsed building

Fayose demands unconditional release of Dasuki, Nnamdi Kanu

Fayose has demanded the unconditional release of embattled former NSA of Nigeria, Sambo Dasuki. The Ekiti state governor has urged President Buhari to reciprocate the mercy of God upon his life by also showering mercy on his fellow citizens. Fayose says that Buhari's continued disregard for court injunctions is a sin

Governor Ayo Fayose of Ekiti has called on President Muhammadu Buhari to unconditionally release former National Security Adviser (NSA), Sambo Dasuki.

Fayose also called for the clause-less release of the leader of Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) Nnamdi Kanu from prison custody.

In a statement on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Idowu Adelusi, Fayose admonished Buhari to reciprocate the mercy of God upon his life by also showering mercy on his fellow citizens.

Fayose said: “You have received the mercy and favour of God. You have come back from medical vacation alive. By what people had said and by your own account, it is the mercy and favour of God that have seen you through as well as the prayers of everyone.

“It is incumbent on you to now also show mercy. I advise you to show mercy to Nnamdi Kanu and Sambo Dasuki and such other Nigerians that are suffering unjust, punitive, illegal, and unconstitutional incarceration under your directive or administration.

“Allow all those who have been granted bail by the court to enjoy their bail while their trial continues. This is the right, just, and merciful thing to do. To continue to disdain the court is reckless and unconstitutional. Moreover, it is a sin and it is oppressive.”

Naira appreciates against Dollar, Pound in forex market

The Naira on Monday, March 13, appreciated in all the major segments of the foreign exchange market, the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports.

The Nigerian currency gained three points to exchange at N460, from N463 posted on Friday, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro closed at N550 and 476, respectively.

At the Bureau De Change (BDC) window, the Naira was sold at N399 to a dollar, CBN controlled rate, while the Pound Sterling and the Euro traded at N547 and N482, respectively.

Trading on the floor of the interbank market saw the Naira closed at N306.00 to a dollar.

Traders at the market expressed delight in the interventions the CBN had made so far in boosting liquidity, adding that its sustenance would turn the economy around in the short to medium term.

Meanwhile, Alhaji Aminu Gwadabe, President, Association of Bureau De Change Operators of Nigeria (ABCON), said the association was expecting an increment in dollar sales to its members this week.

Gwadabe said that due to the stability in the oil sector and the increase in the price of oil at the international market, the CBN was now comfortable in entertaining ABCON’s request to increase the volume of dollar sales to its members.

The ABCON boss said that a boost in its weekly volume from 8,000 dollars weekly to 15,000 dollars would sustain the existing efforts in stabilising the Naira exchange rate at the FOREX market.

The financial expert added that the Naira was expected to extend appreciation across the major segments of the FOREX market this week.

NAN also reports that since the CBN began intervening at the FOREX market, it had spent an excess of 1.4 billion dollars in boosting liquidity at the market.

Some concerned Nigerians have hailed the effort of the CBN in boosting liquidity at the FOREX market, but added that the liquidity boost had not yet translated to the reduction in the price of goods and services in the country.

Nigeria, South Africa collabo to bust xenophobia

Nigeria and South Africa would launch a jointly run "early warning" system to track and deter xenophobic attacks against Nigerian migrants.

This was the resolution after a meeting between Nigeria's minister of foreign affairs, Geoffrey Onyeama and his South African counterpart, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane on Monday, March 13

The meeting was to diffuse soaring tensions over a recent string of attacks on migrants living in South Africa which has elicited reactions in Nigeria.

"The early warning centre would allow us keep each other abreast of issues and help prevent violence," Nkoana-Mashabane said.

The new violence-busting forum will meet every three months and will be made up of representatives from both countries and include immigration officials, business associations and civil society groups.

Nkoana-Mashabane denied that the attacks on foreign nationals were targeted at Nigerians, adding that citizens of other countries were also affected.

On his part, Onyeama said he had received assurances that Nigerians in South Africa would be able to live in peace, even as he called for an end to the "mass attacks".

He added that groups in Nigeria calling for the retaliatory expulsion of South African residents and businesses "do not speak on behalf of government".

Last week, militant groups in the Niger Delta instructed have 18 South African companies and personnel to leave the region or risk attacks because of the xenophobic attacks in South Africa.

Similarly, business activities at MTN headquarters in Falomo, Lagos, on Friday, March 3, were disrupted over the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa by protesters under the aegis of the Human Rights Defenders and Advocacy Centre.

The Nigerian government last month called for the African Union to step in to stop xenophobic attacks on its citizens in South Africa.

Resonding to the crisis, President Jacob Zuma condemned the wave of xenophobic unrest and called for calm and restraint, saying that migrants should not be used as a scapegoat for the country's widespread crime problem.

There were several incidents last month of South African locals attacking migrants from Africa and elsewhere and their businesses in both the administrative capital Pretoria and the commercial capital Johannesburg.

According to the Nigerian Union in South Africa, there are about 800,000 Nigerians in the country, many of them living in Johannesburg.

Meanwhile, the National Association of Polytechnic Students (NAPS) on Friday, March 11 staged a peaceful protest in Ibadan against the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa.

The students in their hundreds went round the metropolis to demonstrate against what they called inhuman treatment of Nigerians and other Africans in South Africa

Court dissolves lecturer’s marriage over domestic violence

A Jos State High Court on Monday dissolved the marriage of a university lecturer, Dr. Evelyn Iyah, over her husband’s alleged cruelty and incessant violence.

Iyah, on March 10, 2016 petitioned the court through her Counsel, Mr G. O Izere, to dissolve her marriage with Mr Iyah Iyah, because he had “lost his desire to love me”.

She further accused him of violence, cruelty and inability to live with her peacefully.

The lecturer also pleaded for an injunction restraining the husband from further threatening her life, or even entering her house.

“My husband behaves in a way that I cannot reasonably be expected to live with him.

“He is violent, cruel, shows open disregard for me and clearly does not love me anymore,” she told the court.

She also asked the court to compel the husband to return her monies – 13,090 British Pounds and N320,000 “with immediate effect”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), however, reports that since the case was filed, Iyah never entered any appearance and did not even acknowledge the court’s repeated summon notices sent to him.

NAN also reports that the court had to serve him by pasting the notice at his residence and office, which all came to nought as he did not show any interest on the matter

When the case came up on Monday, the Presiding Judge, Mrs. Christine Dabup, entered judgment in the applicant’s favour and dissolved the marriage.

She also granted all the wife’s prayers and gave an order to the defendant to pay up all monies in his possession.

“All the reliefs sought are hereby granted to the petitioner,” Dabup declared.

She accused the defendant of utter disrespect to the court, saying that he had not behaved in a way that suggested that he was reasonable enough for the petitioner to live with.

“The case has been in this court for one year now, but the defendant has not shown any interest in the allegations.

“I hereby order that the marriage stands dissolved,” she declared.

She also gave an injunction restraining Mr Iyah from further threatening the life of the lecturer, and barred him from entering her house.

Rant Here: Is Drogba a Nigerian or did he grow up in Nigeria. Who wrote this ad

Is Drogba a Nigerian or did he grow up in Nigeria. All the ads shows a foreigner talking so much about Naija as if he played for Nigeria or started playing in Nigeria. I will give whoever wrote the script for this advert a 2. Good advert but wrong location and wrong choice of jersey for the kid acting as young star.....

What do you think of this ad......................Rant Here

World wide web creator Tim Berners-Lee targets fake news

The inventor of the world wide web, Sir Tim Berners-Lee, has unveiled a plan to tackle data abuse and fake news.

In an open letter to mark the web's 28th anniversary, Sir Tim has set out a five-year strategy amid concerns he has about how the web is being used.

Sir Tim said he wants to start to combat the misuse of personal data, which creates a "chilling effect on free speech".

He also called for tighter regulation of "unethical" political adverts.

The British computer scientist said he wants the people who have helped develop the web with blogs, tweets, photos, videos and web pages to help come up with practical solutions to make a web "that gives equal power and opportunity to all".

Users are often unable to tell outlets what data they would not like shared, Sir Tim said. Terms and conditions were "all or nothing.

Sir Tim said he wants to work with companies to put "a fair level of data control back in the hands of people".

He also expressed concerns that government surveillance is going too far and stopping the web from being used to explore topics such as sensitive health issues, sexuality or religion.

Social media sites and search engines must be encouraged to continue efforts to combat the problem of fake news, Sir Tim said.

However, central bodies deciding what is true or not should be avoided, he added.

Certain algorithms can favour sensationalist information designed to surprise or shock users rather than reflect the truth and can "spread like wildfire", Sir Tim said.

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What is fake news?

Image copyright

The arrival of social media - and the fight for clicks - has meant real and fictional stories are presented in such a similar way that it can be hard to tell the two apart.

So-called "fake news" could be false information deliberately circulated by those who have scant regard for the truth but hope to advance particular (often extreme) political causes and make money out of online traffic.

Or it could be false information circulated by journalists who don't realise it's false.

Fake news has become so prevalent that the Commons Culture, Media and Sport Committee is now investigating concerns about the public being swayed by propaganda and untruths.

The committee was spurred by claims that voters in the US election were influenced by fake news, it said.

Pope Francis was reported to have backed Donald Trump's presidency campaign, for example, when he had not made an endorsement.

Meanwhile, Mr Trump himself has used the term fake news to refer to critical stories about his administration, picking out organisations such as CNN and BBC.

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Sir Tim advocated transparency so users can understand how web pages appear on their devices and suggested a set of common principles for sites to follow.

And he raised concerns about how online political advertising had become a "sophisticated" industry.

Sir Tim said there were indications some targeted advertising was being used in "unethical ways" to keep voters away from the polls or directing people to fake news sites.

He suggested companies could put subscription payments and small automated charges in place to make money without these types of adverts.

However, despite highlighting issues on the world wide web which be believed need addressing, Sir Tim has admitted the solutions "will not be simple".