Hello Everyone,
My Boss in Moniepoint will always tell us whenever we are having a meeting that : Winner are Riskers, If you don't take risk you can't go forward. I do ponder on this most of the time, it obviously true, you have to take the risk of leaving your comfortable zone and strive to thrive, this is where growth actually start.
I remember when I was still in Lagos teaching, that was immediately after graduating from school around the year 2017/2018. I never wanted to settle down around any place near home, I always wanted to go somewhere far from home and start a business or get a Job.
I had plans of starting a new life in Ibadan or Ogun state.
But suddenly then NYSC posting came and I was posted to one of the most unbelievable state ever. I never picked Benue State when registering and documenting my NYSC, but as God has his ways I suddenly found myself here.
Benue state was a state that is constantly plagued by conflict and fight, herdsmen attacks and communal Disputes.
After completing my one year NYSC, I already made up my mind to start a business else where but first I have to get my hands on something profitable.
Later after 2 months of being at home in Benue, I got a Job in a fintech company and then I also started a business there too.
Starting a Business in Benue State has really being a big risk but I'm glad I didn't give up.
I'm filled with a mix of emotions like pride, joy, and a hint of nostalgia. It's a story of resilience, determination, and the power of believing in oneself. B
enue State is a state known as the food basket of nation with a lot of people involved in farming, its rich cultural heritage and vibrant people
The Challenges I encountered here ranges from Security concerns, conflicts and security challenges in Benue State were a major concern for me. I had to navigate through roadblocks, curfews, and uncertainty. But I refused to let fear dictate my decisions.
Another issue is inadequate infrastructure, which includes bad roads and unstable electricity, posed significant challenges to my business operations. I had to get creative with solutions, investing in generators, solar power and finding innovative ways to manage logistics ( I brought a new bike for movement).
Finally I was faced with Market Volatility: The business environment in Benue State was unpredictable, with fluctuations in market demand and supply. I had to stay agile, adapting my business strategy to respond to changing circumstances.
What are the things I did to manage the situation:
Firstly I Built a strong team.
I assembled a team of dedicated and passionate individuals who shared my vision. Together, we worked tirelessly to build a business that would make a difference in the community.
Although having workers working under me comes with a lot of risk, I lost a lot of Money due to mismanagement of funds, and constant shortages but I kept it under control as time goes on now those have reduced drastically.
I fully Adapted to the environment.
I learned to navigate the local business landscape, leveraging relationships and networks to overcome challenges. I built strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and partners, which helped me stay ahead of the curve.
One thing about business is to Create a solution to problems people are looking for solutions for.
Through hard work, determination, and resilience, my business thrived in Benue State.
Note that it was not always bed of Roses,
Recently almost 200 people lost their lives in a Faraway town of yelwata. All my friends and family have been on my Neck to leave the state, I pray God and the Government intervene and keep peace In all the regions and Local government of the state.
In Conclusion
Starting a business in Benue State was a journey that tested my limits, pushed me out of my comfort zone, and taught me invaluable lessons. Despite the conflicts and challenges, I was able to build a successful business that made a difference in the community.
Here is my response to #hl-w170e2
