Dr. Elizabeth Ajibola, Managing Director of Betty Distribution Company, emphasized the critical role of the distribution value chain in delivering goods from manufacturers directly to consumers during the company’s recent 5th anniversary and awards ceremony in Lagos.
Ajibola stated that the firm’s primary focus is to ensure consumers receive the food items they need, effectively connecting the entire value chain to meet demand efficiently. She reaffirmed the company’s commitment to bridging distribution gaps across Nigeria and expanding into additional states.
She praised the staff for their dedication amid challenging economic conditions, highlighting their contributions as vital to the company’s success. Ajibola also expressed gratitude to the company’s partners for their unwavering support, noting, “Just when you think you have arrived, they push you to aim higher.” She acknowledged Mr. Vincent Egbe, Managing Director of GB Foods, for his pivotal role in the early success of Betty Distribution.
During the ceremony, staff members were recognized with plaques and monetary awards for their hard work, underscoring the essential nature of their efforts in navigating tough economic times.
In his keynote address, Vincent Egbe remarked, “We often assume our current position is sufficient, but we are in a race, and the landscape of supply chain and distribution is evolving. Many fail to envision the future beyond their immediate circumstances.”
Egbe praised the leadership of Betty Distribution for their willingness to take risks and their relentless pursuit of success, noting that partner companies recognize the tenacity and vision that have propelled the business forward. “I urge this company and others to do more. Trading teaches us to operate on low margins, enabling rapid scaling. While 60 percent of businesses fail before their fifth year, we celebrate this company’s growth in that same period,” he said.
He added that every part of the world has a nucleus, and Nigeria’s future is pivotal for the continent.
Bolaji Anifowose, Commercial Director of Olam Foods, also addressed the audience, highlighting the significant challenges in distributing agricultural products to the manufacturing sector. He pointed out that 50 to 60 percent of goods fail to reach their intended customers due to distribution issues. “I commend the company and its team for their efforts in bridging this gap and encourage them to continue their work, as there are still vast opportunities in the distribution sector,” Anifowose stated.
