The Kosofe Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), in collaboration with the Full Gospel Business Men Fellowship International (FGBMFI-Nigeria), recently hosted the KCCI Business Conversation—a dynamic event aimed at empowering Small Business Owners (SBOs) to navigate today’s challenging economic landscape.
Welcoming participants, Mr. Joe Femi-Dagunro, Founder and President of KCCI, emphasized the critical need for business owners to unite, innovate, and collaborate. He highlighted that success in the era of artificial intelligence demands new skills and forward-thinking strategies.
Mr. Femi-Dagunro also announced the launch of the KCCI Cooperative Multipurpose Society, designed to offer members single-digit interest loans to support business growth and expansion. Encouraging entrepreneurs not to abandon their dreams despite economic and security challenges, he urged them to stay resilient and focused.
Keynote Address: Faith, Integrity, and Resilience in Business
Delivering a powerful keynote address, Engr. Charles Aladewolu, Founder and Chairman of TECO Group, shared insights drawn from his 45-year entrepreneurial journey. He stressed the importance of spirituality, integrity, and perseverance as cornerstones of lasting success, recounting how a clear God-driven vision guided him through education, work, and business.
“Success is inevitable when we follow the right principles, trust in God’s guidance, and remain resilient,” he said.
Insightful Contributions from Industry Leaders
Other notable speakers added valuable perspectives:
- Dr. Muda Yusuf, Founder and CEO of the Center for Promotion of Private Enterprise (CPPE), advised entrepreneurs to stay true to their professional strengths and avoid get-rich-quick schemes. He also called on the government to create a more enabling environment for businesses to thrive.
- Ms. Maureen Chigbo, Founder and Publisher of RealNews Online Magazine, encouraged women to be resilient and strategic, emphasizing the importance of education and experience in building sustainable careers and businesses.
- Dr. Michael David, Program Director at the U.S. Soy Excellence Center, Sub-Saharan Africa, reminded participants that diligence, truthfulness, and faith are critical ingredients for success.
- Ambassador Aminu Simon, former Nigerian representative at ECOWAS, highlighted the power of networking and partnerships built on trust and sincerity.
Practical Solutions and Opportunities
The Kosofe Business Conversation panel tackled real-world challenges, offering actionable solutions and even providing job and contract opportunities to some attendees.
Mr. Sunny Beyioku, District Coordinator of FGBMFI-Nigeria, also introduced participants to available mentorship programs aimed at fostering long-term success.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Thomas Oloriegbe, President of FGBMFI Ogudu Chapter, expressed heartfelt gratitude to KCCI for the fruitful partnership and the impactful event.
A Beacon of Hope for Small Businesses
In an era marked by global uncertainty and local economic volatility, the KCCI Business Conversation provided much-needed inspiration, guidance, and community for Nigeria’s small business owners. The event stood as a reminder that with vision, integrity, collaboration, and resilience, businesses can still flourish against all odds.
