Seleem Adegunwa, CEO of Rite Foods Limited, has called on Nigerian students to harness the wealth of opportunities within the country’s dynamic business landscape.
Speaking during a session with students at the Nigerian University of Technology and Management (NUTM), Adegunwa emphasized the importance of aligning entrepreneurial ventures with individual passion and personality.
“Entrepreneurship demands commitment. Focus on ventures that suit your strengths and interests,” he advised. “Before diving in, gain real-world experience. Understand how businesses operate. That knowledge will shape your success.”
Persistence Over Perfection
Adegunwa noted that while young Nigerians possess the talent to thrive in any field, success doesn’t happen overnight. It takes creativity, consistency, and resilience. He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to develop “staying power,” stressing that initial failures are normal on the road to breakthroughs.
“Keep refining your ideas until you find the one that clicks,” he said. “Don’t get discouraged—stay focused, and your efforts will eventually pay off.”
Knowledge as a Competitive Edge
He further highlighted the importance of academic excellence and intellectual growth, stating that a strong educational foundation contributes significantly to business success. Adegunwa shared Rite Foods’ experience in the competitive food and beverage market as an example of how innovation and strategy can set a brand apart—even as a local player.
“We entered an industry dominated by global names, but we did so with bold, disruptive thinking that redefined expectations,” he explained.
Inspiring Future Leaders
Also present was Babs Omotowa, founding president of NUTM, who praised Adegunwa for his candid insights and motivational address. Omotowa noted that the session would leave a lasting impression on students and strengthen their resolve to pursue excellence in both academics and enterprise.
“His words will help shape our students into disciplined, forward-thinking leaders,” Omotowa remarked.
