My father was the first son and started life pretty early. At 16 he was already working with some white folks at Ikoyi as a steward. He did modern 6 with spoken English of present day graduate . His diction is almost flawless. His handwriting was so legible compared to this day’s handwriting of students in our current state of education , his could be awarded a master’s degree. While working as a steward, he was also learning tailoring. He eventually got his freedom and set up his tailoring outfit, with numerous apprentice and a good clientele.
His immediate younger brother on the other hand was so determined to further his education. He did all he could to get scholarships into University of Lagos . He is currently a PhD holder .
The last brother , knowing fully well that their “Onidiri ‘ mother could not afford to sponsor his education decided to learn tailoring as well. So we have two brothers as a tailor.
My father considering he started first seems to be the one tipped for greater success because he was working so hard....
My uncle on the other hand was working so smart, and designed his own business model. According to the story I heard, during the week he will dash to Tejuosho, purchase fabrics. Go to Rainbow cinema by Idi-oro . Buy a ticket to watch the Indian film. As soon as the movie is over , he will run down to his shop around Anuoluwapo street close to Akala , Idi- oro mushin. He will quickly copy the safari style of the main actor. Amitab Bachaan . ( Amtaap) I can’t really remember. Please correct me .
The next day he would wear the new outfit to the cinema and the Indians will notice him. Among themselves they will discuss him and amazed at how fast he could recreate the look. They eventually approached him and became his clients.
Remember everything straight hair and white skin is “Oyibo” to an average Nigerian. When the “Oyibo’s” come to see him , the chanting song of
Oyibo pepper
Yuku yuku pepper will fill the air.
My uncle continued to impress his clients. He kept on getting referrals and created his own brand.
After a while the Indians invited him to become their partner. They opened a huge uniform factory , serving major hotels like Sheraton and all. Eventually the business was handed over to him. He continued to enhance his skills, got educated in the process. Became a member of Lagos County Club, Yoruba tennis club and so on.
The story was told casually, but I learnt a very vital lesson from it.
- Lack of education did not stop him
- He knew what he wanted and worked towards it
- He worked hard and worked smart
- He projected himself very well
- He invested in himself and the business
- He didn’t make any excuse by blaming his parents for not giving birth to him abroad
- He took ownership of his life
- He built his brand and went above and beyond
- He dined among important personalities, even with his limitations
- He never folds his hands and sleep at the church waiting on God to do it
- Lastly he found favor
He built his first house at 26. And so many other houses later. His company had another branch in Kaduna and existing till date even after his demise in 2013.
Keep working on yourself , business and your career. May you find grace and favor.
Good morning!