35 Business Ideas and Step-By-Step Guides On How To Start Them

35 Booming Business Ideas and Step-by-Step Guides on
How to Start Them.

(A Strategic and Financial Breakdown of the Most
Lucrative Businesses in Nigeria)
by Florence Chikezie
Published by ReDahlia
43B Emina Crescent off Toyin, Street, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.
www.redahlia.com
www.entrepreneurs.ng
© 2020 ReDahlia International Limited
All rights reserved. No portion of this book may be reproduced in any form
without permission from the publisher.
For permissions or information about sales promotions and educational

needs, contact ReDahlia at 08188122223 or business@entrepreneurs.ng.
Cover by ReDahlia.
[ Dear Reader
Thank you for purchasing this e-book; 35 Booming Business Ideas and Step-
by-Step Guides on How to Start Them. (A Strategic and Financial Breakdown
of the Most Lucrative Businesses in Nigeria)
In this book, you will find 35 most lucrative businesses in Nigeria, step-by-
step guides to start them, the exact amount of money you need to start them
and how to market and succeed in the businesses.
The body of this work is formed from consulting experienced and relevant
people running such businesses to get first-hand information about the
success secrets and marketing strategies deployed to achieve business
success.
This book is for everyone who wants to leave a legacy for the next
generation.
This work belongs to Entrepeneurs.ng which is owned by ReDahlia.
The content of this work has been copyrighted under the law and cannot be
copied, emailed, reproduced , transferred in whole or in part.
As with everything in life, nothing can be achieved if you neglect hard work.
Buying this book does not promise success but applying everything here in
diligently and patiently.
Thank you for respecting our work. Do enjoy the read.
]
Cheers Florence Chikezie
Founder
ReDahlia
35 BOOMING BOOMING
BUSINESS IDEAS AND STEP-BY-
STEP GUIDES ON HOW TO
START THEM
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 1
1. PALM-OIL BUSINESS 3
Step-By-Step Guide 5
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Palm Oil 10
Business?
2. 'PURE WATER' BUSINESS 12

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Pure 18
Water Business?
3. MINI IMPORTATION BUSINESS 20

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Mini 30
Importation Business?
4. EXPORTATION BUSINESS 31
How Much Will It Cost To Start An 38
Exportation Business?
5. E-COMMERCE BUSINESS 41
How Much Will It Cost To Start An E- 51
commerce Business?
6. LOGISITCS BUSINESS 52
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Logistics 59
Business?
7. DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE BUSINESS 62
How Much Will It Cost To Start A 70
Distribution and Wholesale Business?
35 BOOMING BOOMING
START THEM
8. TRAVEL AGENCY BUSINESS 71

TABLE OF CONTENTS
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Palm Oil 77
Business?
9. POS BUSINESS 79
How Much Will It Cost To Start A POS 84
Business?
10. MAIZE FARMING BUSINESS 85

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Maize 92
Farming Business?
11. CALL CENTRE BUSINESS 94

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Call 101
Centre Business?
12. SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS 103

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Solar 108
Energy Business?
13. DROPSHIPPING BUSINESS 111

Dropshipping Business?
14. RICE FARMING BUSINESS 122

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Rice 128
Farming Business?
15. CUSTOM FURNITURE DESIGN BUSINESS 130

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Custom 137
Furniture Design Business?
35 BOOMING BOOMING
START THEM
16. FASHION BUSINESS 139

TABLE OF CONTENTS
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Fashion 146
Business?
17. DAYCARE CENTRE BUSINESS 148

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Daycare 152
Centre Business?
18. ADVERTISING AGENCY BUSINESS 154

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Call 160
Centre Business?
19. BULK SMS BUSINESS 162

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Bulk SMS 168
Business?
20. SUPERMARKET BUSINESS 169

Supermarket Business?
21. BAKERY BUSINESS 178

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Bakery 185
Business?
22. PRINTING BUSINESS 188

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Printing 196
Business?
23. POULTRY BUSINESS 198

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Poultry 204
Business?
35 BOOMING BOOMING
START THEM
24. FILM PRODUCTION BUSINESS 206

TABLE OF CONTENTS
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Film 216
Production Business?
25. BLOCK MOULDING BUSINESS 218

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Block 224
Moulding Business?
26. PLUMBING BUSINESS 226

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Plumbing 231
Business?
27. CASSAVA FARMING BUSINESS 233

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Cassava 242
Farming Business?
28. PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS 244

Photography Business?
29. PRIVATE SECURITY BUSINESS 252

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Private 258
Security Business?
30. LIQUID SOAP BUSINESS 260

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Liquid 266
Soap Business?
31. HAULAGE BUSINESS 268

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Haulage 274
Business?
35 BOOMING BOOMING
START THEM
32. BLOCK MOULDING BUSINESS 276

TABLE OF CONTENTS
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Block 283
Moulding Business?
33. RECYCLING BUSINESS 285

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Recycling 294
Business?
34. ACCOUNTING BUSINESS 298

How Much Will It Cost To Start An 302
Accounting Business?
35. GREEN SPA AND SALON BUSINESS 304

How Much Will It Cost To Start A Green 310
Spa and Salon?
CONCLUSION 313
APPENDIX 315
35 BOOMING BUSINESS IDEAS AND STEP-BY-STEP GUIDES ON HOW TO START THEM
1
INTRODUCTION
Anyone who has dreamed of becoming an entrepreneur knows how scary it is to take
that first step. It’s nerve-wracking to decide on a business venture, and it can be terrifying
to put your money and your time into a new project without any guarantees.
However, it’s clear that in Nigeria and in many parts of the world, ‘first’ and ‘third-world’
alike, unemployment rates are higher than they have been in several decades, partially
due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It’s also clear that overcoming unemployment both in
Nigeria and beyond, would help to expand regional and global economies. It goes without
saying that the more people start up new businesses, creating thousands of jobs and
providing the services we desperately need, the quicker unemployment rates will drop
and living standards of millions will rise.
At one point or another, most of us have dreamt of starting a business, the reason why
varying from individual to individual. These reasons range from a desire to increase our
income to a drive to display our creativity. Another reason might simply be to prove to
ourselves that we can.
This content is protected by the copyright laws of Nigeria and may not be copied , emailed or reproduced.
2
In light of various reports saying that most start-ups fail, it’s tempting to spend our time
worrying that our business will fail. But as we mentioned earlier, it’s normal to feel
nervous.
Still, we can admit that this approach benefits exactly no one. What we must all
endeavour to remember is that with rigorous research, strong guidance, and a splash of
positivity, any business we set our mind to can thrive.
Most of us have what it takes to build a business from the ground up. All we need is the
right information and the drive to put in the work. This is where this book comes in.
Each of the 35 chapters of this work serves as a comprehensive crash-course on how to
start a business in Nigeria with the potential to yield huge profits.
Every chapter provides a thoroughly researched guide to launching each business, with
information sourced from both academic studies and people who actually work in the
various industries.
Furthermore, this book explores businesses in all sectors of the economy: from
agriculture and manufacturing to creative white-collar pursuits; there is a little
something for everyone. At the same time, every chapter manages to contribute to a
flowing narrative from start to finish.
35 Booming Business Idea is also a resource for entrepreneurs of all levels and
backgrounds. Whether you are a seasoned business owner or completely new to the
business world, every bit of this book has something useful for you.
In addition to providing practical guides on starting various businesses, we include

detailed financial breakdowns at the end of every chapter. These breakdowns list the
basic equipment, human resources (salary estimates), and materials you will need to
start your business. They also include price ranges for each item (calculated from several
sources) and the factors that affect cost variation.
As a rule, most items in our financial breakdowns can be found on popular online
transaction platforms like Jiji.ng, Yaoota.com, Olist.ng, Alibaba.com, Jumia.com,
Konga.com, and Amazon.com. In cases where this rule doesn’t hold, we list alternative
platforms where you can purchase the necessary goods. Where relevant, we also
provide information on free tools that can help you in building your dream business.
Naturally, this work takes into account, as much as possible, Nigerian federal laws passed
as recently as 2020. The Appendix at the end of the book also contains some additional
resources on regulatory processes that might be useful to you. Nonetheless, note that the
information herein might be subject to change with new regulatory laws or fluctuations
in local currency. Due diligence is advised.
In all, our goal with 35 Booming Business Ideas is to provide you with the information
and the support you need to start building your own business empire from the ground
up. In doing this, we hope to empower people from all over to take control of their life
and to create the world they’ve always dreamed of.
This content is protectedThis

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of Nigeria be copied
may not , emailed or reproduced.
be copied , emailed or reproduced.
3
CHAPTER 1: PALM-OIL BUSINESS
The palm oil business is one of the most lucrative businesses in Nigeria because there is a
high demand for palm oil as well as huge profits involved. In Nigeria, palm oil is used in
skincare products, in soap, and in several traditional meals. One interesting fact about the
palm-oil business is that every part of the palm tree – the fruits, leaves, trunks, and sap
are all individually useful for different things.
The palm fruits are processed to produce palm oil while the leaves are used for roofing
homes in rural areas. And let’s not forget palm wine, the well-loved Nigerian beverage,
which is made from tree sap.
An aspiring entrepreneur must be able to look wide and deep when investing in a
business. Not long ago, Nigeria was the third-largest producer of palm oil, with over 2.3
million hectares (or 5.7×106 acres) under cultivation.
In this chapter, we will cover everything you need to know about starting and running a
successful palm oil business in Nigeria. We will also go over the different, more specific
areas of the palm oil business, and you will be able to figure out which one works best
with the capital you have.

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The Palm Oil Business Defined

Palm oil is an edible vegetable oil derived from the fruit of palm trees, found in Nigeria
and other countries in West and Central Africa. It is often reddish in colour and is rich in
vitamin E and in antioxidants, which the body converts into vitamin A, both very good
for the body.
Uses Of Palm Oil

A lot of people know palm oil to be used for cooking. Besides being used for cooking,
palm oil is beneficial in these areas:
• Prevention of vitamin A deficiency, cancer, brain disease, and aging

• Production of soap, body lotion, exfoliation cream, margarine, etc.
• Stomach pain relief
• Medicine production
• Treating malaria, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, dementia, etc.
• Increasing the body’s metabolism
• Water pet food
• Preservation of food
How Profitable Is Palm Oil Business Generally?

The palm oil yield per hectare is estimated at 8 tons per year at most. Additionally,
farmers make a yearly profit of around 3.4 tons per hectare.
Some of the factors that may hurt the profitability of your palm oil business are pests
and other diseases. Applying pesticides to protect your plants is important to protect
your profits.
Another interesting fact about the palm tree is that its age has an effect on the yield.
Normally, the peak production period of oil palm plantation is between seven (7) and
eighteen (18) years after which it starts to decline.
We will go into more detail in the following sections and you will gain a better
understanding of the steps you need to follow to start your palm oil business.

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Steps To Starting Palm Oil

Business
Step 1 – Choose The Palm Oil

Business in Which You Want To
Invest
Typically, there are three main types of palm oil

businesses to select from. If you have the required
capital, you can even invest in all three. The types
are outlined below:
A. Oil Palm Tree Plantation
Cultivating an oil palm plantation is capital

intensive and it requires patience. If you want to
start making money immediately, this may not be
the best option for you.
In this type of palm oil business, you will need to

acquire a large expanse of land. Also, the soil
must be tested to ensure that it is suitable for an
oil palm plantation. Typically, this soil is a well-
drained, sandy clay soil, which is rich in organic
matter (i.e. matter that has come from plants and
animal waste products).
The soil also needs to be at least 1 meter deep. All of these are very important
because the type of soil used in cultivating the oil palms will affect the quality of
the fruit. The location of the land is also important so it is easily accessible to
customers.
To plant, you will have to buy seedlings. Usually, one seedling in Nigeria costs 150
NGN. To grow 1000 seedlings, which must be spaced at least 8 meters apart, an
area of around 6 hectares would be ideal.
Next, note that the incubation period after plantation of the oil palm trees can take
five to ten years before it is time for harvest. After harvesting, you can either sell
the palm oil kernel seeds to processing units or you can set up a mill to extract the
palm oil from the seeds.

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B. Palm Oil Extraction Mill
The second type of palm oil business is palm oil extraction. This is also capital intensive
but not as expensive as palm tree plantation. All you will need to get started are palm oil
milling machines used to process the palm oil kernel seeds into oil.
Basically, you can either use the milling machines for personal or commercial
processing. You might choose to process the palm oil kernel in large quantities and sell
the palm oil to consumers or retailers. Also, you could also decide to rent out the machine
to people who want to process their palm kernel. You can make cool cash if you are
positioned in an environment where the machine is in high demand.
One thing to note, however, is that palm oil has its season. Its peak season is from January
to May. Therefore, you might not make so much money during the off-season, which is
from July to December.
C. Sales Of Palm Oil
Most palm oil business owners invest in this type of palm oil business because it is the
cheapest and easiest part of the business. This business involves the buying of palm oil in
large quantities and reselling to consumers. To gain a solid profit, some retailers store the
palm oil in a cool place for months and then sell them during the off-pick period when
the supply of palm oil is reduced and demand is high.
This rest of this guide will focus on the third type of palm oil business: sales.
Step 2 – Draft A Business Plan
Once you have selected your palm oil business niche, create a business plan that will
guide your business transaction. A business plan is a detailed document stating the long
and short-term objectives of your business and how they can be achieved.
While writing your business plan, you will need to carry out a thorough feasibility study
and do some market research to understand the nature of the business. Learn about the
competition, prevailing prices, and about where and how to buy processed palm oil at a
cheap rate.

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In writing your business plan, include the following information:
• Executive Summary
• Company Description
• Team
• SWOT Analysis
• Market Analysis
• Financial Analysis
• Marketing Strategies
• Competitive Analysis
• Appendix
In fact, at ReDahlia, located at 43B, Emina crescent off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos, we offer
these business-planning services. Our work is based on years of experience and
thorough research. The business plan is tailored to your location and the funds you have
available. The department that handles this can be reached on contact@redahlia.com.
Step 3 – Register Your Palm Oil Business With CAC
At Entrepreneurs.ng, we encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to structure their business as

soon as they begin. The first step to structuring your business is to register it with the
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). One benefit of registering your business is that you
will be able to open a corporate account into which customers can make payments.
Additionally, registering your business makes your customers trust you.
To begin the registration process, run a name search on CAC’s portal to confirm that your
chosen name has not been registered by another person. Afterward, you can begin the
registration process. With basic information like a valid ID card, passport photographs,
personal documentation, and a signature, you are good to go.
Alternatively, you can hire a lawyer to help you register your business. ReDahlia comes
highly recommended to help you speed up the registration process.
Step 4 – Set Up A Storage Space
The next step is to set up storage space, which you could buy upfront or rent. Ensure the
space is cool, safe, and dry because this is where you will store your palm oil while you
wait for the right moment to sell.
Additionally, you will need to look into purchasing kegs or drums to store your oil. Most
times, people go for the 25-litre yellow kegs.
Step 5 – Make Arrangements with Oil Suppliers
If you are not the one producing the palm oil, you will need to have a solid arrangement
with suppliers. If you properly carry out step two, you will have the right knowledge of
suppliers to source your product from.

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The palm-oil belt of Nigeria, i.e. those areas in which oil-palm is most predominant,
comprises 24 states. The largest state producers of quality palm oil in Nigeria include the
following:
• Delta State
• Akwa-Ibom State
• Cross-River State
• Bayelsa State
• Imo State
• Rivers State
• Ondo State
• Abia State
However, wet rainforest states like Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu and Edo are also known for
palm-oil production. Furthermore, the Savanna belt states: Ekiti, Ogun, Osun, and Oyo as
well as the wet parts of north central Nigeria: southern Kaduna, Kogi, Kwara, Benue,
Niger, Plateau, Taraba, the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa are also strong palm-
oil producers.
Depending on where you live, you might choose to visit a few of these states to connect
with suppliers of the best palm oil.
When to Buy and Sell Palm Oil
You will want to buy palm oil during its “on-season”, when the oil-palm fruit is abundant
and at its cheapest. As we mentioned previously, the on-season is from January to May.
You can then choose to store the palm-oil and sell it off during the off-season (July –
December), when it is scarcer and therefore, more expensive.
Step 6 - Find A Good Means of Transportation
If you don’t know the right mode of transportation to use in transporting your goods, you
may end up incurring huge costs that will affect your profit. Therefore, it is wise to
compare prices with several commercial carriers before settling for one.
The easiest approach is to ask your supplier to suggest the cheapest, most reliable, and
safest mode of transportation since they have been in the system longer than you have.
However, if you choose to use a personal or company vehicle, you will not experience
any challenges with this step.

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Step 7 - Source for Customers
The efforts you put into steps 1 to 5 will go to waste if this step is not effective. To succeed
in this business, you need a solid marketing plan, which ideally should be part of the
business plan we discussed in Step 2.
It is better to source for your would-be retailers before buying or processing your palm
oil. This will give you a ready market when you are all set to sell. Some promising
retailers are market sellers, cosmetologists, homemakers, and so on.
In order to attract a larger customer base, you should explore other modes of marketing
such as:
• Online marketing (social media, Google ads, etc.)

• Referral marketing
• Newspaper marketing
• Word of mouth
• Collaboration/partnership
Our online publication, Entrepreneurs.ng, offers some great information on how to go

about these marketing schemes. Also, we can help you reach a wider audience if you
advertise on Entrepreneurs.ng.
Another option that will help you reach a wider market is to export the palm oil. There
are many countries all over the world in which palm oil is in high demand. Luckily for us,
Nigeria is known for the high quality of its palm oil.
If you decide to go with exportation, one trusted place to find international buyers is
Alibaba.com, a website known for connecting suppliers or manufacturers with buyers.
Vconnect is another good place to try.
Finally, there are companies in Nigeria that buy palm products in bulk. Some of them
include:
• Phemson Nigeria Limited: A Lagos company involved in the purchase of palm oil and
palm oil processing equipment.
• Planet Oil and Chemical Industries Ltd: A company located in Abia State. They also buy
palm kernel oil as well.
• Sunny Oil Nigeria Ltd: This company is located at Mushin, Lagos. They purchase palm oil
products and palm kernel oil.

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• OM Oil Industries Ltd: Another palm oil buying company located in Ikeja, Lagos.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Palm Oil Business?

In this chapter, we have summarized two types of palm oil businesses and gave a step-
by-step guide on how to start the third one. But how much money or capital do you
actually need to start any of these three businesses? Let’s find out.
General Registration Requirements
1. Business Name Registration: N20,000 with ReDahlia
2. NAFDAC Inspection of Facility. This varies with the size of your staff/enterprise -
micro-scale (1-9 staff members), small-scale (10-49 staff members), medium scale (50-199
staff members), large-scale (200 and above staff members).
• Micro-Scale: N30,000
• Small-Scale: N40,000
• Medium Scale: N80,000
• Large Scale: N100,000
3. NAFDAC Registration Number (if you intend on selling processed palm-oil products)
–
• Medium/Large Scale: N80,000
Oil Palm Tree Plantation Business
• Land acquisition or land rental: cost varies with Location
• Harvesters/Planters: N54,900/month
• Tractor operator for clearing the land: N60,000/month
• Driver and truck rental to take produce to the market: N71,000/month
• Oil palm seedlings: N150,000 for 1000 seedlings.

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Palm Oil Processing Mill Business
• Processing machine costs: these come in two types, manual and automatic as seen
below.
o Manual oil press: N70,000 to N150,000 (yields 1.5 drums of palm oil/ working day)
o Brand new automatic 1TPD-5TPD Oil press: 1,000,000 to 3,500,000 NGN (yields 8
drums/ working day).
• Labour for processing: N5000 – N7000/day
• 25 Litre jerry can: N800/Jerry Can
• Storage facility: varies by size and location
Selling Palm Oil (detailed in this chapter)
• Storage facility: varies by size and location
• Wholesale palm oil: N42,000/100 litres
• 25 Litre Jerry Can: N800/Jerry Can
• Driver and truck rental to transport jerry cans: N71,000/month
In conclusion, you really cannot go wrong with the palm oil business. Though there are
significant time and money investments, if you have noted every step in this guide, with a
bit of hard work, harvest is within reach.

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CHAPTER 2: "PURE WATER" BUSINESS
In recent times, venturing into the bottled water or sachet ‘pure’ water businesses has
begun to seem more viable. This is especially due to the unavailability of clean drinking
water in several areas in Nigeria. Water is one of the highest consumables in demand for
obvious reasons.
Sachet ‘pure’ water or bottled water is in high demand in homes, schools, offices,
churches, hospitals, public gatherings, and so on. As long as there are humans there,
water is needed. That being said, if you can meet with the demands of providing clean
and affordable drinking water, the sachet water business – or pure water as we will call
it—is for you! Furthermore, this business is profitable all over Nigeria.
Pure Water Business In Nigeria

The pure water has now become one of the common areas of investment because
everyone drinks water. Besides quenching thirst, it is affordable and is essential to life
and important to the body. It aids human digestion and helps in the metabolic reactions of
food breakdown, flushes toxins from the body, removes waste, and regulates body
temperature. Basically, water is life.

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The pure water business involves portably packaging purified water into a sachet for
human consumption. The overall process includes steps like setting up a factory and
investing in purification equipment.
If you are an investor and you are still confused about where to invest your money, you
cannot go wrong with bottled water or pure water business if you do your due diligence.
Now, let us go through the steps to successfully set up and run a pure water business in
Nigeria.
Steps To Running A Pure Water Business In Nigeria
Step 1 - Business Plan And Feasibility Study
We covered this as well in the previous chapter. The business plan is a must before
launching any business. The first thing you do when starting a business is to create a
clear plan and create a road map on how best to move forward.
Preparing a business plan will help you gather information, gain new insight into aspects
you may not have considered before, and push you to conduct a feasibility study. The
results of your research will form the foundation of your business and help you make
the best decisions.
Also, a business plan includes the aims and objectives of the business and strategies for
execution. It involves doing market research and analysis, cost analysis, pricing
structure, risk analysis, and forecasting. By doing all of these, it will be easy to source for
funding from investors. As your business grows, you can always tweak your business
plan because it is a breathing document that can evolve with the business.
You can prepare your business plan yourself or outsource it to a reputable company that
does market research before writing the business plan. This will ensure that the business
plan is tailored to your environment and the funds you have available. This is part of the
service we offer at ReDahlia and on Entrepreneurs.ng. Reach us on
business@entrepreneurs.ng to prepare your business plan.
Step 2 – Register Your Business
The next step is to register your business name with the CAC. We also covered this step in
the previous chapter. Here, you do business name registration, a limited liability
company, or any other type of registration that suits your business structure.

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Also, you will need to register a tax identification

number for your business. It’s free and it allows
you to file your taxes as soon as possible. Apart
from these, you will need to register with
government regulators like NAFDAC and other
relevant authorities.
Also, we understand that creating a business plan

and doing business registration in Nigeria can be
daunting, which is why a company like ReDahlia
is your plug. ReDahlia will help you with your
business registration and business structuring.
Step 3 - Secure Funding
In running any business, capital is important.

Depending on the scale at which you want to
operate, the pure water business can be capital
intensive. There are several cost elements you
have to consider: the cost of land, erecting of
buildings, borehole drilling, vans, distilling
machine, tanks, and other equipment that are
needed for the operation of the business. If you
want to run this business as a sole proprietor, you
must have enough savings or assets you can
convert to cash.
Other ways to raise money would be to seek out soft loans from family and
friends. Also, you could source for partners or investors to work with.
Additionally, you could take out bank loans or apply for available grants.
Sometimes one misses funding opportunities because we don't know where to
look. The opportunities section of Entrepreneurs.ng features funding and
mentorship opportunities across the globe to which entrepreneurs can apply.
Step 4 – Build a Factory
To build a factory, you will need land, and depending on your capital, you can
lease or build your own factory. The factory should be situated in a secure area
with a good road network. The actual size of a factory building will vary.

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However, be sure to follow the standard factory layout for overall ease of production.
The layout includes a general office, water production room, storage material room,
toilet, changing/cloakroom, and laboratory. Also, ensure that the production area is free
from water and air pollution. There should also be a steady power supply at the factory.
Additionally, in building a factory, you need to drill a borehole or partner with a water
corporation agency. In the pure water business, water is the raw material for production
and must be readily available.
Next, install an overhead tank and reservoir for back up. Then, set up plans for periodical
water treatment. You should have carried out a subsurface water analysis before
establishing your factory as this can save costs during water treatment processes.
Step 5 - Water Purification systems
This is the process of removing undesirable chemicals, biological contaminants, dirt, and
gases from water. Of course, this needs to be done before the water is fit for drinking.
In the pure water business, the water purification systems commonly used are full-scale
distillation systems, ultraviolet sterilization, or reverse osmosis. Whichever one you
choose depends on your start-up capacity. These systems will be explained next.
Distillation System
The distillation system is the most effective and most expensive way of purifying water.
It involves boiling the water to produce vapour. With all the water turned to vapour, only
impurities like bacteria, viruses and heavy metals are left behind. These impurities are
discarded and the water vapour is condensed back into liquid water. Briefly, distillation
is a process of separating substances and liquid in a mixture through selective boiling
and condensation.
Reverse Osmosis (RO) System
This is another water purification process. It uses a partially permeable membrane to

remove unwanted molecules and larger particles from drinking water. It is also capable
of removing bacteria from water and is used for the production of drinking, cooking and
potable water.
Ultraviolet Water Purification
UV Light purification is a purely physical, chemical-free type of water purification. It is a

safe and effective disinfection method used in residential and industrial water systems.

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However, it is not enough for drinking water purification so, it is often combined with
reverse osmosis systems to completely purify water for drinking.
Step 6 – Get a Truck/Van
This is another important thing to consider in running a pure water factory. A truck is for
the distribution of the processed and packaged water to retailers and end-users.
In buying a truck, you have to factor in the durability and fuel consumption rate. Be sure
to buy a good truck that won’t break down in the middle of the road all the time. You
don’t want to be constantly paying for repairs, as that would certainly hurt your
business.
Step 7 – Buy Other Needed Equipment
Some other equipment you need to run your pure water business includes:
• Automatic Sealing Machine: this is used to pack and seal all kinds of liquid without
gases. It can be used to seal water, wine, vinegar, etc. You can start with one, two, or
three depending on your production capacity.
• Sachets: these must be printed with your company logos
• Generator
• Packaging nylons
• Water micro filters and cartridges
• Drums, buckets and plastic baskets
• Ozonizer
• Overalls, disposable hand gloves, and hairnet
• Water storage tanks
• Pipes
• Bottling line
Step 8 - Get NAFDAC Approval
This is the last step before full operations and production can begin. The National Agency
for Food and Drug Administration And Control (NAFDAC) regulates water production in
Nigeria, as well as products like food, drugs, medical devices, and cosmetics.
Due to the sensitivity of the pure water business to human health, NAFDAC has to make
sure that water production companies follow the quality control guidelines. Some of
these requirements involve the building design, facilities, distribution, and a standard
operating procedure (SOP) that your business must follow.

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Getting the NAFDAC approval is a gradual process and can take more time than
necessary if the process is not done properly. Go ahead and visit www.nafac.gov.org to
register for the certificate and inspection.
Step 9 - Human Resources
The effectiveness of this business is somewhat dependent on human resources. One

person cannot singlehandedly run a pure water business. The scale of operation will
determine the number of employees you need.
You will need to recruit competent personnel: a manager, customer service attendant,
driver, accountant, machine operators, packaging officers, cleaner, security, and sales
personnel.
The operation manager ensures the smooth running of the facility and coordinates the
other personnel. He or she designs the growth and profit strategy for the sustainability of
the business.
The machine operator operates the production machine and other equipment involved in
the production process.
Drivers are responsible for transporting the packaged water to wholesale and retail
customers.
Packaging officers pack and bag already sealed water. They are responsible for
arranging the water into sections for easier distribution.
The customer service attendant serves as the link between the consumers and the
company. They interact with customers and inform them of the various services the
company offers.
The sales personnel distribute and sell packaged water on behalf of the company. They
lookout for new customers and ensure that the company makes as much profit as
possible.
Cleaners/Security are semi-skilled employees who are responsible for the cleanliness
and safety of the company facilities.

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Step 10 - Marketing
To beat the competition, a good marketing strategy is essential to thriving in the pure
water business. Furthermore, your business brand, quality of services, and customer
satisfaction goal must be unique.
Therefore, create a website and social media pages where you can showcase consumer
testimonials and your delivery services. Entrepreneurs.ng provide several detailed
guides on how you can set this up. You can also invest in radio and television
advertisements if it is within your budget. Ensure to have your logo, physical business
location, name, and other identification numbers printed on the sachet, bottles, and van.
Also, you engage in periodical market research to remain informed on the trends and
gaps in the market. Develop a plan for how you can retain customers and understand
that in bottled water or pure water business, anybody can be your customer – everyone
drinks water. Additionally, reward loyalty; offer discounts that won’t hurt your business
to customers and distributors for large-scale purchases.
It’s worth noting that all of the steps we’ve discussed here apply to a bottled water
business as well. The only difference is that the packaging is different.
How Much Will It Cost To Start a Pure Water Business?
As you can probably tell, the pure water business is very capital intensive. Here is a
rundown of the basic first investments you would have to make to launch your pure
water business.
Registration Requirements
1. CAC Business registration: N20,000 with ReDahlia

2. Local tax for the community in which you are located: N5,000
3. NAFDAC Inspection of Facility. This varies with the size of your staff/enterprise;
staff members), large-scale (200 and above staff members)
4. NAFDAC Registration Number: N30,000 for sachet water and N50,000 for bottled
water. (See Entrepreneurs.ng’s comprehensive guide on how to apply for a registration
number)
Factory Equipment
5. Borehole system: at least N120,000

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6. Water Storage Tank: N21,000 – N30,000 (1200-litres); N45,000 – N55,000 (2500-

litres)
7. Water filtration unit + treatment charging: N250,000
8. 20 KVA generator: N700,000 to N1,200,000
9. Pumps, valves and pipes: N150,000
10. UV sterilizing unit (55 Watts): N23,000
11. Reverse osmosis unit: at least N2,500,000 (2,000 litre capacity)
12. Ozonizer: N450,000
13. Dingli automatic filling/sealing machine: N650,000
14. Drilling a Borehole: N130,000 – N550,000 (varies with drilling process and location)
15. Borehole Submersible Pumping Machine: N30,000 (0.5hp) – N800,000 (7.5hp). In
this case, price varies with power of the pumping machine (in horsepower - hp), brand,
durability and coil type. Cheapest isn’t always better. For example, the deeper your
borehole or the more pipes you have in your borehole system, the more powerful (and
the more expensive) your pumping machine must be.
Seek the advice of a borehole engineer to determine the best pumping machine to buy.
Labour and Packaging
16. Water micron filters: N250/filter

17. Micron filter casing: N3500/filter
18. Printed nylon sachets: N500/kg
19. Packaging bags: N3500/Bundle
20. Treatment materials (Hydrolyte, Activated carbon, Brim, Calcite, Sand, Gravel):
N1500
21. Soap (for monthly tank cleaning maintenance e.g. Morning Fresh): N450
22. Drums, buckets and plastic baskets: N1000/one
23. Overalls, crocs, disposable hand gloves, and hairnets: N9000 per person
24. Delivery truck: from N1,200,000 for a fairly used truck
Note that our list does not include payments for land, buildings, and electricity. Land and
buildings will vary according to location and size. Also, in starting a business you need to
develop a business model that looks at your business holistically. By booking a
consultation session with us, we can help you develop a business model. You can book
this session by writing to business@entrepreneurs.ng or contact@redahlia.com.
Quite frankly, the competition in the pure water business is stiff. You have to be on top of
your game to succeed. Make sure to stick to regulations and to routinely maintain your
factory’s equipment. Success is knocking!

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CHAPTER 3: MINI-IMPORTATION BUSINESS
In this chapter, we are going to go through some useful steps on how to build a mini-
importation business. A lot of people think that the mini-importation is a business you
can start one morning and immediately begin profiting from.
This mindset has caused a lot of people to lose their hard-earned money. There's no truly
easy business to start. A good amount of hard work is needed to make any business
successful, and a mini-importation business is no exception.
That being said, the mini-importation business is one of the cheapest businesses you can
launch in Nigeria. In a few months, assuming you’ve followed the steps outlined herein,
you might be dancing your way to the bank. With as little as N10,000, you can make up to
a 200% profit depending on your marketing and sales prowess.
If you want to quickly succeed in this business, you must focus on products that are in
high demand. We call such products ‘hot products’. If you can have access to these
products, you are halfway to making your mini-importation business a success.
Entrepreneurs.ng conducted research recently and came up with 15 in-demand and fast
selling products on online platforms. Check out that article on Entrepreneurs.ng as it can
help you decide on the product you want to import.

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Nigerians tend to trust imported goods over locally produced goods. Whether this is a
good or bad thing depends on who you ask. Nonetheless, this means that there is a ready
market for your products!
Keep reading for our step-by-step guide for starting a successful mini-importation
business. You will also learn what pitfalls to avoid and what websites to patronise when
running your business.
What Is A Mini-Importation Business?
As the name implies, a mini-importation business is a simple type of business whereby

someone buys a product from another country at a cheap price and re-sells locally at a
higher price for profit. This business is mostly done online. At the moment, most people
deal with Chinese companies because they tend to have varieties of products that can be
gotten at a relatively low price.
Usually, a lot of people see mini-importation business as a small-scale business. But, on

the contrary, you can also import a large number of products if you have the capital to
do it. You can decide to start with as low as N20,000 or as high as N10million.
Before now, only organisations with a lot of available capital dealt in the importation
business. Fortunately, with the advent of the Internet and technology, anyone can
engage in virtually any type of business. There are no boundaries as to what we can
achieve.
What You Need To Begin Your Mini-Importation

Business
Great news! All you need to start a mini-importation business are the things you already
have at the tips of your fingers.
In no particular order, here’s a list of all you will need to begin:

• A personal computer (PC) or mobile phone
• Reliable internet connection (It can be a modem, Wifi, Mifi, etc)
• Valid address where your products can be delivered.
• Valid e-mail address
• Start-up capital

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Once you’ve gathered everything on this list, you

are good to go. The interesting thing is that with
your mobile phone, you can place an order from
the website of your choice, make a payment,
input address and get it delivered to you. It’s that
simple.
Why Should You Consider The

Mini-Importation Business?
• Being an importer can serve as your side
hustle while you maintain your full-time job.
If you want to learn more about maintaining
side hustles and several streams of income,
check out Entrepreneurs.ng’s business
support category.
• If you choose the right product and select the right market, you can earn a
full year’s salary with just one successful import.
• You can get cheaper products than your competition if you have good
negotiation skills. Even though the products are cheap, one still does not have
to pay the exact amount. You can go further by bargaining with the suppliers
and in the long run, improve your profitability.
• Many importers tend to reach their financial goals on time because the more
they venture into the business, the more exposed they become to several
lucrative opportunities.
In the following section, we will go through the steps on how to set-up a

booming mini-importation business in no time.

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Step-By-Step Guide To Starting A Mini Importation

Business
Step 1—Register Your Business

As we saw in previous chapters, this is often the first step for any structured business.
With time, aspiring entrepreneurs are finding it more difficult to carry out business
registration by themselves.
This is why companies like ReDahlia exist to take the stress off. With a token fee, you can
get your business registered with ReDahlia and your certificate will be available within 3-
10 working days.
Basically, customers trust registered businesses because they know that if anything
happens to their money, they can trace you. Furthermore, with a registered business name
you can open a bank account with a bank that will act as your Authorised Dealer Bank
(ADB) during your journey as an importer. The ADB is required to process payments and
mandatory import documentation like the Form-M and the PAAR (Pre-Arrival Assessment
Report).
Additionally, having a registered business name allows you to register for a free but
mandatory Tax Identification Number (TIN) at the Federal Inland revenue Service (FIRS),
after which you register your business name as an ‘importer’. This TIN is needed to
facilitate tax payments.
After registering your business, the next (mandatory) step is to add your TIN to the Nigeria
Single Window (NSW) Trade Portal. This portal allows you to consult online, trade
information like tariff search, regulatory guidelines and arriving vessels. It also allows you
to download and submit trade documents and pay for trade transactions online using a
bank card.
Step 2 – Find A Cheap And Reliable Import Portal

Import portals are websites where you can get your products. In other words, they are
portals where your online importation transactions will be carried out. Taking care of this
step is crucial to your business because, at this point, you may encounter fake websites that
may loot your money.
There is also the possibility of choosing a website with pricey products. You have to be
wary of this. If you buy a pricy product, coupled with the shipping cost, it might negatively
impact your profit margin. Therefore, before choosing a website, do some research on the
website. Check reviews, feedback scores, and website ratings.

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The website rating ranges from 0% to 100%.

Website reviews are 0-5 stars. It's always best to
100%
go for websites with up to a 90% rating and
which do not have less than a 4-star overall
review. Some of the popular websites are
1688.com, AliExpress, and Alibaba.
The next thing to do is to head straight to these

websites and to create an account with them. This
doesn’t take long. Amongst the three websites
listed above, 1688.com has proven to be the
cheapest supplier. Thus, many make it their
preferred choice. The website is written in
Mandarin Chinese but you can easily translate to
English on the site.
Alibaba is also popular because it’s majorly a

marketplace for manufacturers and wholesalers.
However, they have a minimum order quantity
(MOQ), and you might be required to buy more
products than you planned on.
Step 3 – Source For Products

After selecting your supplier website, the next
thing to do is search the website for the products
of your choice.
There are thousands of goods that you can import and going through all of them
can quickly become overwhelming. Therefore, it is wise to make a decision on a
particular product based on your target market.
Things To Consider Before Choosing Products To Import
A. Choose Your Market And Know Their Local Needs

In what country do you want to do business? What is the size of the country’s
population? What products are selling fast in the country? You should be able to
answer these questions when choosing your market. Different countries will have
different needs and the products that sell in a particular country may not be
lucrative in another country.

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You also need to study the climate, geography, culture, and lifestyle of your target market.
And while you’re at it, get familiar with the products selling successfully in the market. You
might not know everything but knowing even a few things about the market can save you
from incurring unnecessary costs. This is part of business planning, and ReDahlia offers
one-on-one business consulting to guide you through this step.
Meanwhile, the demand for certain products can change from time to time and from
season to season. Therefore, you need to keep your eye on trends in your industry.
B. Become Familiar with The Local Norms

A crucial part of deciding what product to choose is getting familiar with the formalities
involved in the importation process. If there are products that are termed illegal in your
local market, you need to be aware of them and avoid them.
In addition, some of these goods come with quantity limitations or tax implications that you
need to cover before you can complete the import process. Learning these limitations
beforehand will save you from surprises once you arrive at the shipment stage.
Meanwhile, it may be difficult to wrap your head around all the required taxes, laws, and
authorities. This is where the lawyer comes in. You can hire a lawyer to look over the
details of your importing process and educate you on the regulations with which you need
to comply.
C. Check Reviews on Each Product

Before ordering a product, scroll down to the end of the product page and read the reviews
left by other buyers. This will allow you to make the best possible choice when completing
the online process. Also, make sure to go through the product description, as well as the
available delivery methods and the seller’s guarantee on the product.
Fast Moving Products In Nigeria To Import
A. Shoes, Bags, Wrist Watches And Clothing

These are in demand all-year-round, regardless of location, you cannot go wrong with
these products, even with competition. You will always find customers to patronise you.
Get these items at a cheap price and resell for profit.
B. Gadget/Electronics
Nigerians love their smartphones and gadgets. Although some Nigerians allegedly no
longer trust phones manufactured in China, here are other gadgets from China they go for:
• Bluetooth speakers
• Smart bracelet wireless headset

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• Bathroom LED light

• Wireless ‘ear pods’
• Super bright LED torchlight
• Warm and cooling cup holder
• Wireless phone charger
• Mobile phone HD projector bracket
• Waterproof case for iPhone and Samsung Galaxy
• Flash drive
• Selfie stick
• Watermelon slicer
C. Fitness Products
We are in an era where everybody wants to stay fit and slim. Products that will help them
achieve their dream bodies are something you can invest in. Here are some examples:
• Waist trainers
• Healthy herbal teas
D. Gift Items
Nigerians love parties. Hardly a Saturday goes by without a party or owambe, as many
calls it, going on particularly in the bigger cities. One of the challenges party organisers
face is sourcing for the right gift items to give attendees.
The good news is that China is one of the countries where you can find cheap and
uncommon gift items. Source for the right gift item, advertise, and make your sale.
Interestingly, people tend to buy gift items in bulk, so it is possible to make your money
back at once from a single buyer.
Step 4 – Make The Payment
The next step is to pay for the products you ordered. Security measures have been put in
place to help ease payment challenges. Gone are the days when paying to import products
involved long, tedious processes.
With the Internet, it’s a walk in the park. Right from your house or office, you can make
payments to shops in China, the USA, the UK, and anywhere else in the world. The payment
channel to use will depend on your supplier. Some suppliers accept Visa Card or
Mastercard, some Paypal or Alipay.
If you are worried about losing your money or not getting your exact order, it will interest
you to know that these websites have measures in place to mitigate such risks. They call it
“Buyers Protection” or “Escrow”.
The Escrow is a measure these websites have put in place to protect you. Here’s how it
works: once you make a payment, the money doesn’t go directly into the seller’s account,
the website holds the money. Once you confirm receipt of your order, the money will then
be released to the supplier.
In the event the goods delivered is different from what you ordered, there is a “Dispute
Form” that you can fill and you’ll be refunded.
While it's true that no business is risk-free, in this business, the risk is quite minimal.

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Another Way To Pay For Your Product:

Logistics Route
The first payment approach – through the Internet

that we just discussed is actually not so common in
Nigeria. The route most mini-importers take is the
logistics route. There are companies here in Nigeria
through which you can place your order. With this
approach, all you need to do is open an account with
both your import portal and the logistics website.
Once you select the product you need from the

import portal, you will copy the link to the logistics
website and place your order through them. The
logistics company will, in turn, track your order and
get it shipped to their office on your behalf. Once the
goods arrive in Nigeria, you can go retrieve them
from their office. This appears to be an easy
approach that has worked for many.
Logistics companies get a commission on the goods ordered. Usually, the charges are
reasonable. Your order will arrive within 2-3 days, 7 days, or 14 days depending on how
fast you want it delivered. The faster the delivery time, the more expensive. The
challenge with logistics companies is that not all logistics companies can help you return
your goods if they are different from what you ordered. Therefore, make sure to ask the
right questions before choosing a particular logistics company.
Step 5 – Order Delivery
As discussed earlier, if you involve a logistics company, they can either deliver your
products using local delivery companies or you can go to their office to pick up your
order. If, however, you placed the order directly, your product will be delivered to you
in two ways:
A. Free Shipping
If you are not in a hurry, you can opt for the free shipping option. Although it is slow, it
allows you minimize costs and maximize profit. Most times, with free shipping, your
product is delivered after 20 to 30 days. You pick up your order from China Post Air
Mail/Parcel or Hong Kong Mail services.

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China Post is the official postal service of China. The small parcel and large package of
China Post and Hong Kong Post can be tracked if registered. When using free shipping,
endeavour to include your phone number, so that you can be contacted when your
goods arrive.
Sometimes, you may not be able to track your order but rest assured that it will be
delivered to the nearest China Post. That’s why you need to include your phone number.
B. Premium Delivery
This mode of delivery is faster and more traceable. The deliveries can be done through
DHL, FedEx, or EMS and it arrives within 3 – 5 days. One way to reduce costs is to request
that some irrelevant packages in your order be removed so as to reduce the weight and
cost of shipment.
Documents Required for Successful Delivery
Note that to be able to pick up your imported products at the port, you must present:
• Bill of Lading: issued by a shipping company to the seller when goods are loaded
onto vessel. A copy of this bill might also be issued to you on arrival.
• Commercial Invoice Exit Note: issued by the seller to document transaction.
• Form M: downloaded from NWS Trade Portal
• Single Goods Declaration: issued by Nigerian Custom Service
• Regulatory/Product Certificate (issued by NAFDAC, SONCAP, any relevant
regulatory body).
Step 6 – Advertise Your Product and Start Making Money
No matter how good your product is, if you don’t advertise it, people will never find out
that you exist. So, at this point, you need to make noise about your product. If you
thoroughly carried out the research in Step 3, there will be no difficulty in identifying
your target audience.
Marketing Channels For Your Imported Goods
A. Social Media
Open a business page for your product on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and other social
media platforms. In recent times, these platforms have been re-designed in ways that
help businesses reach their target market.

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If you are not familiar with them, open an account first, and get familiar with them.
Ensure that you explore all the options available. From running targeted promotions to
exploring the stories sections, Entrepreneurs.ng’s DIY: A Practical Guide to Running
Instagram Ads will guide you. Post regularly and engage with the audience. Social media
marketing success has a lot to do with good visuals and captivating captions.
B. Referral
Another marketing avenue you can explore is building a referral network, by

compensating anyone who brings clients to you. It could be in cash, a gift, or a discount.
This actually works well because people want to know what’s in it for them before
becoming evangelists of your business.
C. Word of Mouth
As old fashioned as this may sound, it still works like magic. Make it a habit to tell anyone
that comes around you about your business. From families to friends, neighbours to
church or mosque members, social gatherings, and so on, don’t leave anyone out. This is
part of the hustle.
D. Distribution of Flyers And Handbills
Another method is to employ a graphic designer to help you with flyers or handbills. You
can share these in banks, commercial hot spots, and corporate or social gatherings where
your target audience visits regularly.
If you cannot do the legwork yourself, there are companies whose job it is to distribute
flyers, posters and the likes. All you need to do is to tell them about your target locations
and pay them to distribute your marketing materials for you.
E. Local Advertisement
There are several popular newspapers and magazines in which you can run adverts.
They don’t even need to be paper journals. It could also be an online publication and
advertising platform like Entrepreneurs.ng where your business will be placed on the
world map. One advantage is that with the daily visitors to the site, you have an audience
that can quickly be converted to loyal customers.

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How Much Will It Cost to Start

A Mini-Importation Business?
1. Business Name Registration: N20,000 with
ReDahlia
2. Fairly Used personal computer (PC):

N35,000 to N150,000 for Windows PC
3. Hosting Your Website: Bluehost offers a basic

plan for new websites.
• N27,700 for 1 year

• N46,000 for 2 years
4. E- Form M + PAAR: you request the Form-M on

the NSW Trade portal, fill it out and send it to
your ADB who registers it with the Nigeria
Custom Service (NCS).
The Form-M is required for every importation, no

matter what goods are being imported or how
much the goods cost. Depending on what is being
imported, it is valid for 180 – 365 days. The ADB
completes processing for the PAAR on your
behalf. Processing Fee: N1,500.
5. Import duties: varies with product. Payment

of this duty is handled by your ADB
6. Warehouse: cost varies with size and location – for example, in Lagos N1000 –
N4000/ square-meter per year. The number of square meters you use will depend on
the size of your business.
7. Delivery Fees:
• Handling Charge: from N200 per package

• Delivery Fee: varies with weight of products along with origin and destination of
delivery.
8. Marketing Material: N2,500 – N3,500 for 100 A6 Flyers (one-sided).
So, there you have it. If this business idea speaks to you and to your financial
abilities at the moment, don’t hesitate to start!

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CHAPTER 4: EXPORTATION BUSINESS
Countries depend on each other for survival; this is why we trade, import and export
goods and services. In essence, exporting of goods and services helps a country grow its
GDP. However, this area is still under-explored by the Giant of Africa, Nigeria.
Export Business in Nigeria
First, what is ‘export’? Export is the transport of goods outside a country for sales across
national boundaries. It is a sophisticated business, which requires a high level of pro-
activeness and the ability to keep up with the demands of the global market. Going into
the export business is as important as deciding what to export.
Exportation can be done by a supplier or by the company that manufactures the

products. The most important thing is for the goods to be conveyed to the final
destination.

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In Nigeria, as long as you are under the regulation of the authorised council, you can
export goods and services to other countries across the world.
Going forward, we will take a look at the statistics of export business in Nigeria to give us
a bit of perspective.
Statistics Of Export Business In 2019

Nigeria is one of the top export countries in the world, holding the 51st position.
According to Worldstopexports.com, it shipped US$53.6 billion worth of goods around
the globe in 2019. The total exported goods represent 4.4% of its overall Gross Domestic
Product.
Also, Nigeria’s top export destinations include India, Spain, Netherlands, Ghana, France,
South Africa, United States, Italy, China, Indonesia, Turkey, Canada, United Kingdom,
Ivory Coast, and Germany.
Next, the report highlighted 100 most valuable export products that amounted to the
increase in the GDP. Some of the products exported include crude oil (highest), petroleum
gases, breaker vessels, flexible base metal tubing, light vessels, fir boats, docks, ships,
aircraft, aluminum, lead, lead ores, coal, solid fuel, natural sands, copper foil, iron or non-
alloy steel angles, natural gums, wood charcoal.
Additionally, Nigeria exported items like cigars, natural rubber, sheep/lamb leather,
machinery plants, jars, pots, malt bears, fresh or dried flowers, husks, skins, plastic
plates, sanitary rolls, footwear, wrist/pocket watches, natural sands, lifting/loading
machinery, hard rubber, hair preparations, plastic waste, plastic, wigs, eyelashes,
fluorine, chlorine, knit/crotchet fabrics, stoppers, and many others.
Export food items included oil seeds, cocoa beans, cashew nuts, coconuts, cocoa butter,
cocoa paste, pasta, soups, broths, spices, non-alcoholic drinks, medicinal plants,
sweetened milk, cream, sauces and condiments, bread, biscuits, buttermilk, fruit and
vegetable juices, sugar confectionery, chocolate, vinegar, vegetable oils, beans, lentils
flour, and so on.
All of these exported goods were worth a subtotal of US$53.6 billion in 2019.
Steps to Begin An Export Business

With the above statistics, it is important for prospective entrepreneurs who have an
interest in inter-country trade to discover opportunities in the export business. We will
go ahead to highlight the steps to start an export business.

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Step 1- Business Registration With The CAC
If you guessed this first step, well done! The CAC was established in 1990 via the
Companies and Allied Matters Act No 1 (CAMA) 1990. It is a body charged with the
responsibility to regulate the formation and management of companies in Nigeria.
By registering your business, you join the league of certified business owners and can
access loans as well as other benefits tailored to entrepreneurs. You can employ the
services of ReDahlia; a brand dedicated to providing business support to entrepreneurs
to take care of your registration.
Step 2 – Nigerian Export Promotion Council
Next, you will proceed to register with the Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) for
an export license and other documentation. This council serves as an exporters’
directory. It provides a platform for prospective buyers to look up information on
reliable exporters. Also, it verifies an exporter’s certificate and represents the interest of
Nigerian sellers before international buyers.
In addition, the NEPC has educational processes available, which enhance understanding
of the export business. It provides prospective exporters with a guide arranged in 9
steps: Export Readiness, Understanding the Market, E-registration, Export Plan,
Document and Procedures, Logistics and Freights, Pricing, Finance and Legal Issues.
By listing your business on NEPC, or other export directories, you can take orders from
any location. To register, all you need do is log onto the website (nepc.gov.ng), download
the required documents, and follow the instructions.
Step 3 – Create Structure
After procuring the licenses and permit, you are on your way to becoming a legit
exporter. The permit allows you to ask questions and make clarifications on the business
from NEPC. While you’re at it, it is important to register your company on some trade
websites and create visibility for your business to attract customers.
Also, you will need to set up a proper structure for credibility and accessibility.
Therefore, you will need a professional address or a virtual office address. ReDahlia
Workspaces offers a virtual office address package. This way, your business will have a
professional appeal and buyers can rest easy when doing business with you.
Moreover, having a website or a landing page for customers (importers) to locate you
and make their demands is a necessity.

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Step 4 – What To Export Out of

Nigeria?
Generally, there are several goods that sell in the

international space. Just as each country has
natural resources that are unique to them,
Nigeria has a lot of natural resources that are in
demand in other countries and therefore can be
exported.
For instance, in Nigeria, exporting agricultural

produce is a good way to begin. There are
several agricultural products in Nigeria that are
in high demand in other countries.
Some of the agricultural products you can select

for exporting are:
A. Sesame Seed
Nigeria is the 7th largest producer of sesame seed worldwide and about 80% of her
production is exported. The demand for the seed increases steadily by 4% every year,
and two of its important destinations include the Middle East and Asia.
B. Nut
Cashew nut, kola nut, and other kinds of nuts are rich in protein and minerals and are
highly sought after in the international space.
Nigeria is responsible for about 20% of world in-shell cashew production and is a leading
exporter of cashew nuts and the fourth-largest producer worldwide. The major
importers are India and Vietnam.
C. Bitter Kola
Bitter (Gracinia) kola, which plays a symbolic role in several Nigerian traditions, is in
great demand in countries like America, Japan, India, France, Britain, Germany, China,
and other Asian countries. Bitter Kola is mostly found in African countries and Nigeria is
one of its largest exporters.

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D. Ginger & Garlic

This is one of the most traded spices in the world. These spices are readily available and
can be exported with ease following the steps we listed.
E. Charcoal
There are different types of charcoal to export. There are hardwood charcoal, charcoal
briquettes, BBQ Charcoal, and Shisha Charcoal. These charcoals are produced in places
like Nassarawa, Jebba, Oyo, Egbe, and so on. These charcoals are one of the most
exported products in 2019.
Also, the quality of the charcoal produced in Nigeria is one of the best in the world. Asian,
European, and American countries make high demands from us.
F. Cassava
Nigeria produces a lot more cassava compared to other African countries, including
Malawi, Cameroon, Mozambique, and Uganda.
Also, over 800 million people worldwide depend on cassava as a regular source of
energy. For example, cassava tubers may be processed into different kinds of products
such as chips, starch, pellets, and flakes. All of these are in high demand in the UK,
Germany, France, Netherlands, and other countries.
G. Cocoa
Cocoa is used for chocolate, beverage, health, and pharmaceutical products and is in high
demand in virtually all the countries of the world. Nigeria exports thousands of tons of
cocoa on a yearly basis, with an increase in export volume by 20% from 2016 to 2017.
Nigeria is the fourth-largest cocoa producer in the world, covering a 6.5% share of global
production, with a 4% growth projection per annum in subsequent years. Also, the cocoa
beans account for almost 90% of the 804 million USD of Nigerian cocoa exports.
Cocoa butter and cocoa paste are also exported in large amounts. These products are in
high demand in the Netherlands, USA, Malaysia, Belgium, and other countries.
H. Plantain Flour
Nigeria is the world’s fourth-largest producer of plantains, with 2.8 million MT produced
annually. Apart from the local demand for plantain flour in Nigeria, many living in
Europe, America, and Asia have made the packaged plantain flour export business
lucrative.

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I. Edible Oil
There are several kinds of edible oil in Nigeria and each of
them is fit for exportation. Palm oil, sesame seed oil, coconut
oil, vegetable oil, and others are in high demand in Asia,
India, the Netherlands, and Italy.
For instance, palm kernel oil can be used for manufacturing

creams, cosmetics, pharmaceutical products, and
confectioneries. These oils are said to be rich in protein and
other classes of food nutrients.
Also, other agricultural products you can sell are fruits, chili
pepper, bean flour, potatoes, yams, ginger beer, kilishi,
soybeans, honey, snails, catfish, butter, medicinal plants, full
cream, and so on.
To put it briefly, the options are endless!
Step 5 – Look For Producers And Suppliers
As soon as you’ve set up your export business, next you want to find the producers or
suppliers of the goods you intend to export. If you meet the demands, you could also
become a producer yourself! However, if not, the next best step is to establish a link with
other producers and reach an agreement.
To begin, you can visit the production site of the goods you want to export or establish a
communication channel with the producers or farmers of the products you want to
export. For example, farmers in Kaduna, Jos, Jebba, and Nassarawa are known for
charcoal production while North and Central Nigeria are known for sesame seeds.
It is also very important to negotiate the best rates from your suppliers. You want to have
a balance between high-quality products and low prices in order to make a good profit.

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Step 6 – Determine the Price Of Your Product
Okay, by this stage you know what you want to export and how. You’ve found a supplier
or manufacturer. Before you go ahead and start exporting, you need to clear up the
pricing of your product.
To maximise your profits, the price tag you put on your export goods is extremely
important. Here are some things to keep in mind when pricing your merchandise:
• Make sure your prices are competitive: Do some market research to see what prices
your competitors are selling similar goods. If you have a lot of competitors, you might
have to match their prices in order to acquire and keep your customers. If not, the rate of
demand will allow you to determine how high to set your profit margin. High demand
and low supply mean that you can set high-profit margins. If there is only a middling
demand, you will have to be realistic when setting your profit margins.
• Remain informed on exchange rates: For example, understanding the exact value of
the Naira against the Dollar will help you increase or decrease your price tags in
accordance with the international market.
• Minimum order quantities: Including minimum order quantities allows you minimise
shipping costs and maximise profits.
• Review all of your cost elements regularly.
• Ensure all export-related and associated costs are covered: We have discussed the
requirements for setting up an export business. In the next section, ‘The Financial Aspect’
we will go into more detail on exactly how much these requirements will cost. You want
to make sure the price you place on your products is high enough to cover all of these
costs, and then some profit.
Step 7 – Export Logistics
To export your goods, you could use freight forwarders. A freight forwarder is an
individual or a company that organizes shipments on behalf of someone else to move
goods from the producer or manufacturer's final point of distribution.
You could also arrange for the freight forwarder to take care of everything from
arranging insurance to finding a reputable customs broker. A customs broker is
responsible for clearing your goods through customs. In several countries, only a local
and registered official can do this.

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Note that your shipment could be done on either Free-on-Board (FOB) or Cost, Insurance
and Freight (CIF) basis. FOB means the buyer covers the cost and liabilities once the
goods are shipped while CIF means sellers cover the cost of everything including
insurance and transporting until the buyer receives the goods.
Also, there are some other basic documents required for exporting goods. These include
a commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, certificate of insurance, bill of
lading (sea or land) or an air waybill, certificate of inspection and import licenses.
Step 8 – Invest in Advertisement and Online Marketing
Except you already have a sealed deal with buyers who will buy all you want to export
continuously, there is a need to invest in online advertisement and marketing. Your
online advertisement should be targeted at the countries to which you want to export.
Before getting to this stage, you should have decided on the product to export and this
product must be in demand in the country to which you are exporting. Once the
homework has been done, running targeted ads become easy.
When it comes to marketing, you should not leave out social media. On social media, you
can use the right keywords and optimise posts on your website in a way that will get to
your target audience.
In addition, leveraging online trade directories like Alibaba.com, tradekey.com,

busytrade.com, inda-mart.com, howtrade.com, importers.com, and LinkedIn would be a
smart option.
How Much Will It Cost to Start an Export Business?

So, now we have a solid grasp on how to get started in the exporting business, how to
find customers and suppliers, and what to sell. But how much is this entire thing going to
cost?
Here is rundown of the investments you can expect to make when starting a small-scale
export business:
Local Export Costs
• Sourcing cost: varies by product.

• Packaging and labelling: N2,400/100 pieces of packaging nylons; N3000/50-litre
carton; N5000/100 pieces of packing foam

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• Warehousing: N1000 – N4000/ square-

meter per year. The number of square meters
you use will depend on how much you have to
export.
• New Exporter Certificate from NEPC:
N13,500 (valid for 24 months)
• Quality Assurance Certificates:
a.) NAFDAC Export Certificate (for
processed/semi-processed food items):
N5000
b.) Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine
Service, NAQS, Export Certification (for
Agricultural, Plant-based products):
N5000 (1 x 20ft container)
c. ) NAQS Diagnostics: N5000 (0.5 – 50 kg)
d.) Other certification as applicable
• Levies: Tax imposed on export good to
encourage domestic consumption. It varies
with product.
• Nigeria Export Proceeds Form: N5000 for
one e-form (not always required)
International Export Costs
International export costs to consider include:
• Freight forwarding costs (including insurance): varies according to location and

weight of cargo. However, there is an average of $7/kilo for freight rate and
N700/kilo customs charge.
• Promotional costs: N2500 to N3500 for 100 A6 Flyers (one-sided)
• Import duties/taxes: varies with country
• Productions of export literature (including translations): N10,000
It’s worth noting that the Nigerian Export Import Bank (NEXIM) and CBN offer a broad
range of funding options for you to launch your export business.

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How Profitable Is The Export Business In Nigeria?

In the last few years, the value of the export business in Nigeria has surpassed a value of
$900 million. It is extremely lucrative in Nigeria. With just N60,000 (see above
investments) you can be well on your way to a strong business.
Expanding your sales beyond the local level increases your market reach by a lot!
Competition is also reduced and profits boom.
To conclude, note that like every other business, the export business has its challenges.
This guide is not exhaustive, but it can definitely get you started on your journey as an
exporter.
Also, you will need to make sure to develop your business model if you want to succeed
in your export business. ReDahlia can help you develop a business model that looks at the
business holistically. You can reach us at 08188122223 or contact@redahlia.com.
Finally, you can always start small. You don’t have to start with millions of Naira. Start
small, learn the trade, and gradually scale your business.

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CHAPTER 5: E-COMMERCE BUSINESS

The e-commerce business is one of the most popular businesses of the 21st century. Before
we dive into what an e-commerce business entails, consider this: several international
corporations want to set up shop in Nigeria. Why is this, you ask? Well, the reason is that
we have the population and the buying crowd!
Nigeria has over 180 million residents. As an entrepreneur, the question you should be
asking yourself is: what product can I offer even a tiny fraction of these residents that
they will be happy to pay for?
Starting a brick and mortar business is not the cool thing to do these days because a good
number of the buying crowd is online. So, an e-commerce business is basically an online
business, and it’s a fantastic way to go because it allows you to catch a ton of customers
without setting up a physical shop!
Starting an e-commerce business does not mean that you have to become a Konga or a
Jumia. The great advantage to this business is that you can start small and grow steadily,
while making consistent profit.
Now, moving forward, let’s go into more depth about what exactly e-commerce involves.

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E-commerce Defined
In simple terms, e-commerce is the buying and selling of goods and services using the
internet. In other words, e-commerce or electronic commerce is a business transaction
that happens online. Since the turn of the 21st century, e-commerce has been a huge
source of economic growth in Europe, America, and parts of Asia.
In recent times, the e-commerce business is witnessing great growth in Nigeria and
Africa as a whole. Actually, the business began as far back as 1960 when businesses
began to embrace electronic data. Afterwards, Amazon and eBay contributed immensely
to the acceptance of e-commerce.
To better understand e-commerce business and its importance, let’s go into the various
types of e-commerce.
Types of E-commerce Business
A. Business-To-Consumer (B2C)
This business transaction is conducted directly between businesses and the consumers
who are the end-users of the products. Therefore, companies that sell directly to
consumers are called B2C companies. B2C is a commonly practiced type of e-commerce
business.
B. Business-To-Business (B2B)
As the name implies, B2B refers to transactions between businesses rather than to
individual consumers.
C. Consumer-To-Consumer (C2C)
Here is another type of e-commerce business model whereby customers trade directly
with each other. This is how it works: a customer purchases goods from another
consumer using a third-party platform online. An example of such is eBay, Etsy, and
Craigslist.
D. Consumer-To-Business (C2B)
This is the opposite of the popular B2C business model. C2B model is where consumers
sell their products or offer their services to businesses online. An example is freelancers.

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E. Business-To-Administration (B2A)
This is also referred to as B2G (Business to

Government). B2A is an e-commerce business where
a business provides an online service to the
government through a website.
F. Customer-To-Administration (C2A)
C2A is quite similar to the B2A explained above. This

is where a consumer provides a service to
government or public administration.
Other E-Commerce Terms To

Know
A. Mobile Commerce (M-commerce)
We can call M-commerce another type of e-commerce because many B2C transactions are
done on a mobile phone. For example, a B2C purchase that takes place on a mobile device
is called both B2C and M-commerce.
As more and more Nigerians invest in smartphones, M-commerce has begun to lead in e-
commerce, making up to 34.5% of all e-commerce sales in 2017. Therefore, it is important
that all e-commerce businesses build a mobile-friendly website to stay ahead of the
competition.
B. Facebook Commerce (F-commerce)
Needless to say, Facebook is the largest social media site. Due to the large number of users
with Facebook accounts, F-commerce came into being. F-commerce is also used to refer to
any type of e-commerce business done on any social media platform.
Just like M-commerce, F-commerce can involve different types of e-commerce sales such
as B2B or B2C. Therefore, any sale that takes place on Facebook with a mobile device can
be called M-commerce or F-commerce.

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Statistics Of The E-commerce Business

40% of worldwide internet users have bought products online using a desktop or mobile
device. This amounts to more than 1 billion online buyers and growing. On average,
millennials (people aged 25-40 years) now make 54% of their purchases online versus
49% of non-millennials (older than 40 years).
Businesses That Can Be Done As An E-commerce

Business
1. Mini-importation Business (discussed in Chapter 3)
2. Course Development/Training
3. Freelancing (Graphic designing, Content writing, CV writing, etc)
4. Social Media Manager
5. Catering
6. Fashion Designing/Clothing line
7. Business Consulting
8. Event Planning
9. Food Business
10. Public Speaking/Life Coaching
11. Mobile Accessories Online Store
12. Beauty/Skincare Business
13. Sales of Gift Items
14. Travel Accessories
15. Financial Coaching
16. Human Resource Services
17. Software Development/Sales of Software Applications
18. Makeup Artistry
19. Health Care Products/Services
20. Sales of shoes, bags and hair products
21. Ticketing
22. Domain Name Brokerage
23. eBook Publishing
In fact, information technology has made us understand that there is no limitation to the
type of business that can thrive online. If you can package your offerings to suit the
online market, you are good to go.

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Why You Should Start an E-commerce Business

1. E-commerce helps you overcome geographical limitations. With e-commerce, people
enjoy your products or services from locations you’ve never even visited. Also, you have
access to a large market across Nigeria and beyond, and you don’t need to incur travel
costs to achieve that.
2. It is cost-effective. With a low budget, you can set up an e-commerce business and
grow it into an international brand.
3. You can run an e-commerce business as a side hustle while maintaining your full-time
job.
4. With e-commerce, you can save money on rent, utilities, and other costs associated
with a physical store. That means no generator stress! I think you see where we’re going
with this.
5. Communication is easy because you can easily keep a tab on your customers when
running an e-commerce business.
Steps to Starting An E-commerce Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Register Your Business Name
Expect to see this step at the beginning of most of our step-by-step guides, because it is
that important. Once you pick a great name for your business, the first thing to do is to
register it with the CAC. You never can tell; the name may already have been registered
by someone else. If you go ahead with branding, it might be a big shock when you
discover that you are building on someone else’s name. More than that, you would have
wasted money.
When it comes to business names, it is always best to choose a name that clearly explains
what your business is about. So that, with just a glance, your prospective clients can tell
the product you sell or the services you offer.
Also, always bear in mind that no customer wants to pay into a private account when
transacting with you. Considering the rate of online scams, a learned client will only pay
into your corporate account. And there’s no way you can open a corporate bank account
without tendering your business registration certificate.

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More than that, registering your business makes your

business appear credible.
What does it take to register your business?
It doesn’t cost an arm or a leg. Actually, you can register it

yourself on CAC’s portal, but some aspiring entrepreneurs
find it difficult to get it done themselves. Another great
option is to get a legal firm to do it for you. ReDahlia
International Limited is a highly recommended firm that
helps businesses register their business within a short
duration.
Step 2 – Develop A Detailed Business Plan
A business plan is a document stating your business’s future

objectives and the strategies for achieving them. The mistake
most people make is that they think an online business does
not need a business plan.
Actually, every business needs a business plan, even an e-commerce business. A

business plan will give you direction on what to do every step of the way.
Moreover, having a strong business plan ready is useful if you ever need to raise funds
from investors or apply for grants. You can always draft one yourself or hire
Entrepreneurs.ng to do it for you.
What your business plan should contain:

1. Executive summary
2. Company description
3. Market analysis
4. Organisation and management
5. Service or product line
6. Marketing and sales
7. Financial projections
8. Appendix

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Step 3 – Create Your Online Store
An online store is a major requirement if you want to start an e-commerce business. The
truth is that you need an online space where customers can transact with you. If you
cannot afford a web developer, it costs less to host a free WordPress site and also employ
the free WooCommerce plugin, which allows you to sell products from your site. As time
goes by, you may decide to upgrade to the WordPress premium version which allows
premium support and premium plugins and themes.
Additionally, platforms like Shopify allow you to host an online store without any
knowledge of web designing by paying a monthly or yearly fee. This is an even better
option.
Furthermore, established e-marketplaces like Konga, Jumia, Kara are also good places to
start your store. These platforms give you access to everything you need to get started
including marketing and other logistics.
Another important factor to consider is your domain name. This is the address where
customers can access your online store or website. You can secure your domain name
while gathering up the cash needed to pay for hosting and setting up your website.
Namecheap.com is a good place to search for available domain names. However, don’t be
surprised if the name you have chosen for your business is not available as a domain
name. There are several domain name extensions to pick from: ‘.com’, ‘.org’, ‘.ng’, and so
on.
If you are ready to build your e-commerce website, there’s no better time to start than
now.
Step 4 – Payment Integration
The next step is to get a secure payment gateway through which your customers can
pay. If you are considering a global online presence, a payment gateway is a necessity.
It is important that you choose a secure platform that will keep your customers’ details
safe. Some of the popular and reliable ones include Paypal, Paystack, Flutterwave and
Paga.
Step 5 – Make Your Products Available
If you are selling physical goods, your items need to be displayed on your online store
with good descriptions and prices. Prospective customers can click on the items of their
choice, check out and make payment through the payment gateway.

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In the same vein, if you are offering a service, you

can put up graphic designs stating the different
services you offer. That way, it will be easy for
clients to select the service of their choice. It
might seem trivial, but high-quality photos and
designs go a long way to impress potential
customers and improve your profit margin.
In addition, if you are starting big, you may need

a store or an office space to keep your products.
However, if you have space in your house where
they can be kept, we would suggest you hold off
getting a space for now. As you grow and
understand the business better, you will be able
to determine if you really need an office space.
In recent times, one major challenge confronting

online sellers is that customers want to be sure
they have a physical address before committing
their money to them. Hence, a virtual office
address should help you conquer that challenge.
Many co-working spaces have an virtual office
address package you can plug into.
A virtual office address allows you to use the

workspace’s address on your business card,
website and other correspondences.
And whenever you need to have a meeting with any of your clients, you can book their
meeting or boardroom. A typical example of a workspace that offers such a service is
ReDahlia workspaces located at 43B, Emina Crescent, off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos.
Step 6: Set Up Means of Delivery
One advantage of the e-commerce business is that you can sell to different people at
different locations at the same time. However, this can only be possible if you have a
good delivery system in place.

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Your delivery system goes a long way to determine the credibility of your business. The
speed of delivery will encourage clients to give you good reviews which will, in turn,
draw more customers to you. Therefore, it’s important that you choose a reliable delivery
service. One of the options is to get your own delivery bikes and employ people that will
ride them. Another option is to partner with an established logistics company. This
method is more cost effective as they will help you deliver the product and receive
payment on your behalf if you are running a pay-on-delivery system.
Here are some of the popular logistics companies in Nigeria you can consider:
1. FedEx Nigeria
2. DHL
3. GIG Logistics
4. AGS Movers Lagos
5. Courier Plus Services Limited
Step 7 – Market Your E-commerce Business
This is the lifeblood of your business because nobody will find your business until you
advertise it to them. Bear in mind that there’s nothing like too much marketing. As a
matter of fact, even established businesses have to keep marketing their services to
remain at the top.
There are several ways to market your business to your target audience. First of all,
create an account for your business across all social media platforms and start posting
content that relates to your offerings. This way, you will attract organic followers whom
you can convert to customers.
Other ways to promote your e-commerce business depending on your budget:

1. Use social media influencers
2. Running Instagram, Facebook and Google adverts
3. Share handbills, flyers, and posters
4. Run newspaper, TV or radio advert
5. Get listed on relevant directories
6. Word of mouth
7. Referrals
8. Offer freebies
9. Attend relevant events and network
10. Organise Competitions

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Drawbacks of The E-commerce

Business
There is no business without challenges, and it is
good for an entrepreneur to be aware of the pros
and cons involved in a business before venturing
into it. Below are some of the challenges an e-
commerce business owner is likely to face.
A. Some Customers Still Prefer

Physical Stores
As much as the world is going online, it will interest

you to know that some people still prefer the brick
and mortar shop. Such people might not be
comfortable making payments online. This is a
result of internet fraud or scam rates.
When dealing with such individuals, it is advisable that an e-commerce business owner
be flexible with payment plans. In this case, you could allow a cash on delivery method.
B. E-commerce Business Is Highly Competitive
Many people are investing in e-commerce as it is relatively cheap to launch, and this has
made the business highly competitive. Hence, an aspiring e-commerce business owner
should research the best niche market to play in.
Another point is that the more competitive a niche is, the more expensive ads for that
niche are. So, when starting out, you must research the competition very well to develop
a good strategy to get your product across to your target audience. If you discover the
ads are expensive, you can employ other marketing tactics like content marketing
through your blog.
C. Logistics Issues
Good road networks are still a challenge in some parts of the world. Some areas may not
be accessible, which makes it difficult for products to get to those areas. Usually, logistics
companies charge more if the roads they need to access are poor or not motorable.

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How Much Will It Cost to Start an E-Commerce

Business?
Here is a run-down of the investments you can expect to make when starting your
business.
1. Fairly Used Windows Laptop: Varies based on model from N35,000 to N150,000
2. Hosting Your WordPress Store: Bluehost, one of the most popular hosting providers
offers a basic plan for new websites costing:
As you can see, in the long run it is cheaper to pay for three years. There is no monthly
pay plan with Bluehost.
3. Domain Name: Free for the first year with Bluehost.

4. Source for Products: Varies by product.
5. Delivery Fees:
• Handling Charge: from N200 per package.
• Delivery Fee: varies with weight of goods along with origin and destination of
delivery.
6. Marketing:
• N2,500 – N3,500 for 100 A6 single-sided flyers.
There you have it! A comprehensive guide on how to start a successful e-commerce
business delivered. The best way to learn any business is to start it on a small scale. In the
process, you will learn the pros and cons of the business and how you can position
yourself for success.

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CHAPTER 6: LOGISTICS BUSINESS

The logistics business is a business that has been given different names. Some call it the
“delivery business” or the “transportation business”. Nevertheless, these all mean the same
thing. Basically, the logistics business is all about moving goods from one destination to
another, from the manufacturer to the final consumer.
Many Nigerians are becoming internet savvy and are engaging in online transactions
more often than before. Hence, the e-commerce business, as we discussed in Chapter 5, is
becoming more common, and along with it, the logistics business (which complements it).
The logistics business is complementary because goods bought online must be delivered to
the customer. Therefore, a logistics business is a sure-fire viable business idea. However,
you should also note that it is easy to lose your investment if you don’t have the required
knowledge to successfully set up this business in Nigeria.
Many entrepreneurs are investing heavily in e-commerce as technology keeps advancing.

These entrepreneurs also need a logistics company that is proven and trustworthy to
work with.

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From what we have seen and read in the news, ineffective logistics can mar an e-
commerce business. To succeed in the logistics business, you need to be grounded in all
facets of the business and you need to deliver top-notch service.
In this chapter, we will explore how to start and operate a successful logistics company.
What Is the Logistics Business About?

Basically, a logistics company is involved in planning, implementing, and controlling the
movement and storage of goods, services or information. This is all done within a supply
chain and between the points of origin and consumption. You can trace the origin of
logistics to the military. It was used during World War I and II to move food, weapons,
and other relevant supplies easily.
After the war, logistics became a full-fledged business that people began to explore. Over
the years, many companies have emerged and grown to become a giant in the industry.
Some of the logistics companies in Nigeria to study are Courier Plus Services Limited, GIG
Logistics, Creseada International Limited, Ocenj Logistics, AGS Movers Lagos, AXPD
Resources Ltd, amongst others.
Logistics may also apply to warehousing, transportation, inventory, packaging, material

handling, disposal and security within the business sector.
Is the Logistics Business Profitable?

A major concern of any entrepreneur is whether their new business is profitable or not.
The profitability of a logistics business is determined by several factors. These are: how
many customers you can acquire within a unit of time, your pricing strategy, and
delivery efficiency. Needless to say, there is a huge profit in the business when you have
a solid plan to penetrate the market and retain customers.
As long as the e-commerce business keeps advancing, the logistics business will still be
relevant and profitable. If you understand the business, you can amass millions in the
logistics business. For instance, if you have 20 businesses using your service, and each
customer sends out 100 items every month, it means that, by the end of the month, you
would have made 2,000 deliveries. In other words, you need to devise a good way to
have repeat customers.

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Equipment Needed for the

Logistics Business
1. Bus/Truck/Cargo Bike
2. Storage space
3. Computer System
4. Mobile Phone
5. Accounting and other Software
6. Dispatch Box
7. Stationery
Step-by-Step Guide to Starting a

Logistics Business
Step 1 – Define Your Mode of

Operation
The first step to starting a logistics company is to choose a means of delivery. Do you
want to operate with bikes, buses, or trucks? Will you be involved with interstate or
intrastate delivery? Are you going to focus on a particular industry or sector? Do you
want to begin as an agent, transporter or contractor?
All these questions must be answered before you begin. Defining your mode of
operation will help you estimate the capital you need to start and help you focus because
there are many forms of logistics.
If you don’t have the funds needed to get your own buses or bikes and start out as a
standard logistics company, you can begin as an agent or contractor. Starting as an agent
means that you will be the intermediary between an established logistics company and
the business owner in need of their service. You will be paid a commission for every
business that uses the services of the logistics company at your recommendation.
A business plan is a comprehensive document stating in detail the goals and objectives of
your business and how you intend to achieve them. After identifying your “modus
operandi”, it is safe and business-wise to put down the step-by-step plans in writing.

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Additionally, drafting a business plan also helps you access funding opportunities. As
seen in discussions in previous chapters, the information in your business plan should
include:
1. An overview of your logistics business
2. Executive Summary
3. General company description
4. SWOT analysis
5. Market Research
6. Your Strategy
7. The Team
8. A marketing plan
9. An operational plan
10. Financial projection
11. An appendix
Step 3 – Register Your Business With CAC
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the approved body for business registration
in Nigeria. The first step to structuring your business in Nigeria is to register the business
with CAC. When you register your business, customers trust and see your business as
credible.
To begin, you can choose to either register as a business name or as a limited liability
company. The business name is cheaper than the limited liability company, and the
option you choose depends on the ownership structure and your funding capability.
Many aspiring entrepreneurs find it difficult to complete the registration due to the
procedures involved. That is why it is advisable to hire a lawyer to help you with the
registration. One of the trusted firms in Nigeria that helps with business registration is
ReDahlia. ReDahlia is located at 43B, Emina Crescent Off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos.
Additionally, location is not a barrier because you can send all the registration
requirements via email and your certificate would be delivered to your preferred
location.
Besides registering with CAC, there are other licenses and permits you need to obtain
from the government. These permits and licenses happen to vary by state. It is crucial to
do your homework on the appropriate licences and permits to obtain so that your bikes
or buses are not harassed on the road.

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If you intend to register your logistics business in Lagos, these are the regulatory papers
you would need to obtain:
i. Vehicle License: This license is acquired with the license plate during vehicle
registration. It applies to every vehicle your company owns, including motorcycles.
ii. Driver’s License: applies to each rider.
iii. Road Worthiness Certification: applies to every vehicle in your fleet. Provided by
the Lagos Computerised Vehicle Inspection Service (LACVIS).
iv. Rider’s Identification Card: This is not a driver’s license, and you can get one from
any of the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) regional offices.
Every rider should have one.
v. Lagos State Driver’s Institute Permit/Certificate: applies to each rider.
vi. Local government and Inter-state Vehicle Permit: Both intra-state (within
state/local government) and inter-state registrations can be done at any local
government office in Lagos. Make sure to obtain the local government sticker of where
your business is situated. This is especially important if registration was done in another
local government.
vii. Stage Carriage/Hackney Permit: According to the Lagos State Road Traffic Law,
this document is required for all operators of vehicles that carry goods and passengers.
viii. Finally, you will need to obtain a licence to operate as a courier service company
from the Courier Regulatory Department of the Nigerian Postal Service (NIPOST).
In the last section of this chapter we will discuss how much it will cost to acquire these
licenses.
Step 4 – Acquire Funding and Capital
You need funding to acquire the relevant equipment listed in Step 2 and to also pay your
workers. The capital you need will depend on the scale of operation. Actually, with as
low as N400,000, you can start a small logistics business.
The business plan will help you apply for loans from commercial banks and for other
forms of business grants. Also, you can get an investor or venture capitalist who is
interested in your business idea with a good business plan.

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Once you get your funding, acquire your equipment. If you

are operating in a region with high road traffic, you may
want to consider investing in bikes. Of course, it’s important
to make sure that your means of transportation will not be
infringing on any law whatsoever. Furthermore, getting
fairly used cars or bikes can be a good strategy for
minimizing your start-up cost.
Step 5 – Set Up A Website for Your

Logistics Business
It is imperative for a logistics business to have a website.

Your website will serve as the intermediary between you
and your customers. If anyone wants to learn about your
business, they can easily visit your website, get the
information they need and contact you directly from the site.
Hosting a free WordPress site with the Woocommerce plugin
are easy platforms that can help you set up a cost-effective
website.
Step 6 – Get an Office Space
The logistics business is both an online and offline business. Some customers will prefer
to visit your office to send their deliveries. So, you need to get an office space where you
can also park your vehicles and bikes. The office space must be spacious and the
compound large enough to accommodate your vehicles and bikes. Also, make sure to
brand your office and vehicles to create awareness and attract your target market.
Step 7 – Hire Staff for Your Logistics Business
In the logistics business, a driver or rider is very important. Hence, you need to be
careful in selecting and training them. Preferably, you can start as your own
driver/rider to get familiar with the routes you operate and the system of the business.
That way, you will have first-hand experience with the business operation.
Depending on the scale you want to operate, it might not be feasible for you to be the
only driver or even be a driver at all. Nonetheless, it helps when you understand how the
process works. You can develop winning strategies and communicate better with your
drivers/riders when you know how things work.

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Everyone you hire must learn the company’s culture, behave in a manner that protects
your company’s image, speak politely with clients, etc. The more you grow, the more
drivers/riders you can employ. This step does not apply to you if you are starting out as
an agent or contractor.
Apart from drivers, you also need other employees that will attend to customers when
they visit your office. You have to train, retrain, and keep training your drivers and staff
because their actions and inactions affect the growth of the business, especially when it
comes to your riders.
Step 8 – Market Your Logistics Business
Nobody will hear about your business if you don’t market it. Advertise your logistics
business both offline and online. Connect with e-commerce business owners and offline
organisations. Luckily, it is easy to market your business now due to the advent of the
internet.
Here are some of the marketing channels you can explore:

• Word of mouth
• Referral
• Social media advertising
• Newspaper publications
• Google advert
• Collaborations/Partnerships
Our online publication, Entrepreneurs.ng, offers detailed guides on how to take your
social media marketing to the next level.
Challenges of the Logistics Business

Every business has its challenges and being aware of the challenges is the first way to
surmount them. Here are some of the challenges you might face:
1. Some customers are not so sure of what they want or may change their minds about an
item they bought. As a result, they may refuse to pick your calls or reply to your text
when you get to their location, thereby making you waste fuel and time.
2. Another challenge is the issue of returns. Some clients may say that what you
delivered is not the exact item they ordered and may request that you return it.

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How Much Will It Cost to Start

A Logistics Business?
Earlier on in the chapter, we discussed the
equipment, materials and resources you need to
have to start a strong (if small-scale) logistics PERMITS
business. Below is a rundown of the initial
financial investments you can expect to make.
Registration and Permit

AND
Requirements
LICENSES
1. Business registration with the CAC: N20,000

at ReDahlia.
2. Commercial Vehicle License –
• Motorcycle: N1,250
• Motor Vehicle: N1,250 – N2,125 (varies with
engine capacity)
3.National Driver’s License: N6,350 (application

fee)
4. Rider’s Identification Card: N800
5. Lagos State Driver’s Institute
Permit/Certificate: from N2,000
6. Road Worthiness Certification –
• Commercial Motor Vehicle/Small Mini-Bus: N3,200
7. Local government and inter-state Vehicle Permit: varies by local government.
8. Stage Carriage/Hackney Permit (Lagos State Road Traffic Law) –

• Motor Vehicle: N4,475 – N8,475 (varies with vehicle capacity)

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9. Licence from the Courier Regulatory Department of NIPOST –

• State Coverage: N800,000 (within one state)
• Regional Coverage: N2,000,000 (across several states in a particular region)
• National Coverage: N4,000,000 (across the entire country)
10. Vehicle Branding Permit – LASAA (Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency)
mobile advertising permit for motorcycle.
• Partial Branding: N1,900
• Full/Wrap-Around Branding: N19,000
Vehicles and Equipment
11. Fairly used Cargo Bike: N100,000 – N150,000
12. Vehicle Branding (optional): N15,000 (though it varies with size)
13. Fairly used Windows Laptop: Varies based on model from N35,000 to N150,000.
14. Fairly used Dispatch Box: N25,000
Digital Tools
15. Hosting Your WordPress Store: As we discussed in the Chapter 6, Bluehost, is

probably the best and most affordable hosting provider. It offers a basic plan for new
websites:
16. Logistics Software for monitoring movement of riders, managing client orders and
maintaining professionalism: Onfleet is one of the most affordable logistic software on
the market. Their cheapest plan is N57,737/month.
17. Marketing: N2,500 – N3,500 for 100 A6 Flyers (one-sided). Additionally, online
marketing is very important in this business; this varies with scope and platform.

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Insurance
18. Motorcycle Insurance (this is crucial for any

company vehicle): from N25,000/year. We also
advice that you do additional research into the
best insurance companies for your budget and
vehicle type.
19. Goods-In-Transit Insurance Cover (required

to obtain license from NIPOST): N500,000
Other Requirements
20. Office space: varies by size and location.
21. Staff:
• Dispatch Riders: N55,000 – N65,000/month
• Office Manager/Customer Service Personnel: from N70,000/month
Other than the permits included here for businesses registered in Lagos State, there may
be other road permits required to get your business up and running – legally. These
permits vary by state, so you need to do some in-depth research based on your location.
The logistics business is a business you can grow only if you have a passion for it. With
passion, this business can be very profitable. Nonetheless, for every business we discuss
in this book, nothing is set in stone. You have to put in the work, be determined and wait
it out to succeed.

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CHAPTER 7: DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE

BUSINESS
Distribution is one of the four core parts of the marketing mix. Without distribution, your
production or service chain will not be complete. Being a product distributor means that
you are the middleman between the manufacturer and the end-users.
Distribution is a form of business-to-business dealing. As a distributor, you are very

important to both the manufacturer and consumer because you are in the middle of the
line. The distribution business is one with numerous success stories. Also, depending on
the product you want to distribute, you can start up with only a little capital.
You definitely can grow at your own pace in this business. Just like for every other
enterprise that we have discussed in this book, we will emphasize that before you get
involved with any business, ensure that you are passionate about it. That way, it won’t feel
like a job.
Next, we will outline all the information you need to kick start and succeed in your
distribution business.

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Ways to Penetrate Into The Distribution Business

In starting a distribution business, there are three basic ways to penetrate the market.
These three ways have their pros and cons, so it is important that you evaluate
thoroughly before making a decision. It's worth mentioning at this point that as a
distributor, you need to have finance and management skills.
A. Buy An Existing Distribution Business
The advantage of this kind of entry is that you will inherit an existing knowledge bank of
the business and the client base as well. More importantly, the fact that the business is
already in motion is an added advantage.
However, this type of entry can be very expensive. Additionally, you would be going in
not knowing the impression the previous owners left, and if it is one you would want to
associate yourself with.
B. Start From Scratch
Starting from scratch can also be risky. However, it allows you the opportunity to create
a deconstruct yourself.
The major challenge here is that you will be building your reputation yourself. Therefore
you will need to invest heavily in marketing to make any significant impact on the
market.
C. Buy Into An Existing Distribution Business
This option is riskier than the first two because you have to deal with the culture and
politics of the distribution company. If you have to take this option, you need to be very
careful and to explore the business before investing your time and money.
It is important to note that whichever method of entry you choose will not necessarily be
the determining factor in the success of your distribution business. Instead, the crucial
questions to ask are: “Is this opportunity the best one for me?” And in the case of A and C,
“How much support and training are the originating company willing to give?”
Remember, you have the right to negotiate with the company and whatever you get at
the end of the day depends on your bargaining power.

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Steps for Building A

Successful Distribution
Business
Step 1 – Decide on Your Product
You could choose to distribute a product that you

are passionate about or instead, do some research
and distribute a product that is difficult to find in
the market, thus creating a niche for yourself.
Make-Up Brushes
The end goal is to select a specific product or a
variety of products. Whatever your decision is,
being a distributor means that you will need to
SALE
UP TO 50% OFF!
partner with a manufacturer to supply the
product you hope to sell.
Step 2 – Research The Market
Validate your chosen product with some legwork. Get up from your desk and go into the
market to find out anything and everything you can about the product. For market
research to be effective, you have to be exhaustive.
You need to find out if there are already distributors for the product you want to offer,
where exactly they are located and how the competing products are priced. It is also
extremely crucial to identify your customers and to note where they are located.
Furthermore, you want to learn about who and what determines your inventory and to
understand the product lifecycle, and so on.
After your research, it is left for you to make a decision as to whether you will select a
different product or find ways of beating the competition.
Step 3 – Develop A Business Plan
In order to have a complete vision of your distribution business, you need a business
plan. This will be of great help in understanding the strategies you need to employ to
make your business successful. A strong and detailed business plan is a necessity if
you plan on sourcing for funds through financial institutions or other means.

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ReDahlia draws from a wealth of experience and is equipped to draw up comprehensive

plans for your business. After one-on-one consulting we can save you the hassle and
produce a business plan that will take your business far.
Step 4 –Register Your Business. Be Legit.
Make your business official by getting a unique business name, registering with the
Corporate Affairs Commission and acquiring the necessary licenses. As soon as you start,
take care of the necessary taxes. Be aware of particular laws applicable in the state and
country you operate. You can also trust the legal team at ReDahlia with your business
registrations.
Step 5 – Find a Location for Your Business
The location of your warehouse facility is not really important to your customers since
you will be delivering the goods directly to them. All they are concerned with is that they
receive their goods in good shape and on time.
That being said, the location of your warehouse is very important to you because it has a
direct impact on your cost. The warehouse is where your inventory is stored after you
receive it from the suppliers and before you distribute it to customers. Therefore, it is
cost-effective to situate it close to your customers. The warehouse space you need will
depend on the type and size of the product you are distributing.
Some distributors start off from their home garages and then grow from there. Some
remain in the garage/basement stage permanently – it all depends on how big you are
willing to make your business to grow. Furthermore, the decision to either operate from
home or to rent a warehouse will also depend on your capital base. In all, the important
thing is to have both a short-term and long-term goal.
Step 6 – Determine Costs and Plan Funding
The largest part of the cost in the distribution business is the inventory cost. This is
followed closely by other large-cost items like payroll, van purchase and maintenance,
facilities, equipment procurement, and so on. All these aspects should have been
addressed in your business plan.
The initial financial investments will depend on the product you will be distributing. The
start-up capital for a business distributing office stationery is not the same as the start-
up capital for one that distributes building materials.

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The available funds’ option to offset these costs include personal savings, borrowing
from family and friends, friendly loans and traditional loans. You should determine
which option works for you and work accordingly.
Also, remember that you can agree with the manufacturer on payment terms, get the
products and pay after you exhaust your inventory and have made some profit.
Step 7 – Market and Advertise Your Products
Clients will not patronize you if they do not know you exist. Therefore, it's vital to have a
viable marketing plan. You can leverage online and social media resources. You can also
carry out traditional and offline marketing such as printing of souvenirs, flyers and
placing ads in newspapers. And while you’re at it, make a catalogue of all your products
and share it with clients and prospective customers online and offline.
In essence, succeeding is all about packaging and planning ahead.
Our online publication has, of course, published several guides on social media
marketing, drawing on hard-earned experience. Also, Entrepreneurrs.ng offers you the
opportunity to put your business on the world map and become the preferred choice for
our audience of entrepreneurs and business leaders.
Secrets To Success In The Distribution Business
A. Collect All Your Receivables
How profitable your business becomes depends on your ability to manage your
receivables effectively and efficiently. You may lose your credit worthiness with the
manufacturer if you don’t manage your credit with your customers well.
You should be wary of customers with the habit of owing huge amounts of receivables
with no realistic payment time. This is when you need to leverage your position as a
distributor. Before you set the time to pay your supplier for the inventory, you should
ensure that by then, you have collected receivable. This is all about synchronizing the
two parties (manufacturer and retailers) with your business.
It is important to be detailed with customers when setting credit deadlines and not to
overextend your credit. Never allow a customer to owe too much, or to use up too much
credit, as this can leave you overexposed.

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B. Make Use Of Turnover
One important secret to succeeding here is to make use of

turnover. Turnover is the rate at which a business sells the
products or the inventory they have in stock. To maximise
your turnover rate, it is important not to mark-up the price
of the product too much, as this will repel buyers.
It is important to keep your profit margin reasonable and

affordable to your target clientele. In fact, the higher your
turnover rate, the greater your profits.
C. Have A Schedule For Your Distribution

Business
Unforeseen circumstances can make a manufacturer

disappoint on delivery day at the very last minute.
Therefore, scheduling the manufacturer to make deliveries
days before you need to supply products to your customers
will work like magic.
In the same vein, make sure to get customers’ orders registered upfront along with a
realistic delivery time and date. Superb customer service will help keep customers
happy while they wait, and also make them more willing to work with your schedule.
Also, ensure that your staff is trained to handle customers well, even the difficult ones.
D. Be Flexible and Dynamic
Pay attention to changes in customer preferences and buying habits. Keep an eye on
economic and political changes. Find out what consumers are willing to spend their
money on and monitor other trends affecting your industry, including the competition.
What you want to do here is take note of the decisions competitors are making and put
actions in place for your own business to win.
E. Offer References
Compile a list of satisfied clients who are willing to serve as references for potential
clients. This will give future customers the chance to verify your work and makes it
easier for them to choose to do business with you.

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F. Hire Only Certified Employees
Employ individuals who are certified in your business field, and make sure that they are
as skilled as they say they are. This will go a long way toward improving and increasing
clients’ confidence in your business. To help you out with recruitment, Entrepreneurs.ng
has published several detailed guides on how to find and retain talented employees.
G. Active Retail Network
A distributor should have an external sales force, which will always be on the lookout
for retailers and for new businesses to sell to. While some retailers will find you because
of your reputation or by recommendation, there will still be some potential customers
out there who do not know that your business exists.
If your marketing team and sales force are not in place, the competition will definitely
take over the market from you.
Competencies You Will Need For Your Distribution

Business
Experts agree that the most important skills needed in the distribution business are a
sales background and people skills. In essence, can you be a tireless salesperson willing
to go out in search of new customers and products?
Similarly, for each department of your business, there are a required set of skills and
responsibilities needed for growth:
A. Customer Relations
Customer Relations is in charge of coordinating inbound and outbound calls, emails,

texts, social media, and letters to and from customers regarding issues and questions.
Everybody in this department needs to have some sales experience.
B. Financial Department
The financial department is in charge of verifying customer credit and working with
third-party organisations, such as leasing companies. People in this department should
have a background in finance, accounting, book-keeping, or credit management.

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C. Purchase Manager
The purchase manager is in charge of ordering supplies,
coordinating the warehouse, and arranging other logistics that
have to deal with an inventory. Since you are just starting off,
you can easily fill in this position yourself.
D. Marketing Professional
The marketing professional or public relations expert presents
the company to the customer base, vendors, media, and trade
groups in a positive fashion.
E. Warehouse Associates
Warehouse associates physically take inventory from the shelf
and pack them into boxes for delivery. They also receive
incoming inventory and operate forklifts in the warehouse.
F. Warehouse Manager
The warehouse manager oversees the activities in the
warehouse and also sees to maintenance of the warehouse.
G. Drivers
The drivers can also be the warehouse associates. They will see to the physical delivery of
products from you, the distributor, to the customers.
Things to Keep in Mind While Running Your

Distribution Business
Time for profit
The period before you observe a real return on your investment is approximately 2-5
years. This is especially the case for larger distribution businesses that invest a lot of
start-up capital. The cost structure of the business will also impact the time of return
and the rate of return of your work.
On the other hand, if you are using your garage as a warehouse and your car for
delivery it will help to cut down the overhead costs. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect
a return on your investment, within the first year of operation. This is in contrast to
someone who rents a warehouse, hires vans, and has paid employees.

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Delivery Costs
The primary reason manufacturers need distributors is to reduce the cost of making
product deliveries. A distributor can also maximise profit by reducing costs when
making deliveries to retailers. You can do this by understanding the layout of your
community or city and by having a map of all the areas you cover.
You can either decide to have a strategic point of delivery or, if the area is large, choose
to have warehouses in different locations close to your customers. This will reduce the
cost of operation and positively impact your revenue.
Some manufacturing companies prefer to deal with regional distributors as opposed to

national distributors. So, when deciding whether to be a national or regional distributor,
analyse your budget to know if building or renting more warehouse facilities all over the
country makes sense or if it is better for your business to focus on a single region.
How Much Will It Cost to Start Your Distribution

Business?
These are the things you will need to acquire in order to launch a medium-sized
distribution business:
1. Inventory: cost varies widely with the product.

2. Warehouse: cost varies with size and location – for example, in Lagos N1000 –
N4000/ square-meter per year. The number of square meters you use will depend on the
size of your business.
3. Fairly Used Van(s) for delivery: N800,000 – N1m (for a Ford Transit Van 2005)
4. Fairly Used personal computer: N35,000 – N150,000 (Windows PC)
5. Distribution software to manage inventory and deliveries: (Agiliron Software is
of good quality and is affordable) – N18,963/month
6. Fairly used printer: N15,000 – N23,000
Ifyou operate from home and use your car for deliveries, you won’t need a warehouse or
a van. The lovely thing about the distribution business is that you can start very small
and grow the business at your own pace. If someday you decide to grow your business
beyond “medium-sized”, you might need to obtain equipment like pallet racking and
forklifts to manage your inventory.
In summary, the distribution industry comes with endless opportunities and success
stories. The first years are going to be learning years, but as time goes on, your business
will continue to grow organically.

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CHAPTER 8: TRAVEL AGENCY BUSINESS
Are you detailed-oriented and passionate about traveling? Do you love planning and are
you keen on helping others visit new places? If the answer is yes or “maybe”, consider
venturing into the travel agency business.
Before the coronavirus pandemic, the travel industry was booming, generating trillions
of dollars worldwide every year. Even though the COVID-19 outbreak has affected the
business, we are hopeful that the industry will bounce back as countries begin to lift
travel restrictions.
A travel agency is an organisation that offers a wide range of valuable and time-saving
services to individuals, groups, and corporate clients. It provides travel and tourism-
related services to diverse groups of people. A travel agency will suggest destinations
that appeal to customers, offer timely information, and advise clients on how best to
enjoy their vacation.

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Furthermore, these organisations act as agents for outdoor activities and work with
hotels, cruise lines, airlines, travel insurance companies, car rentals, bureau de change,
and so on. Basically, they eliminate all the hassle surrounding travel.
Starting a travel agency business can be relatively cheap. You can start with little capital
from the comfort of your room and as time goes on, expand. Also, you can run on flexible
working hours as long as you have built your clientele.
To succeed in this business, you need to operate in the right niche, choose your target
market, brand your business, and provide quality services.
If you have always contemplated starting a travel agency business, this chapter will
guide you on your journey. Sit tight and enjoy the read.
The Travel Agency Business

The travel agency business is a vital business area in the travel and tourism industry.
Travel agencies act as general sales agents for different kinds of companies or countries
and even sell travel products on behalf of a supplier. They can package all the attractions
and amenities found in a country, and become an agent to airlines, hotels, or other
service-based companies who may not even be in their location.
They make arrangements for travel tickets on air, rail, road, and sea. They prepare travel
documents like passports and visas, then make arrangements for accommodation. They
also plan activities like cruising, cycling, culinary tours, and backpacking for clients.
Travel agents can operate online, from a physical office, or from both. This way,
travelers can have face-to-face conversations or reach out over the phone or email
depending on their preferences.
Moreover, with the advent of online applications that can help customize and update
travel itineraries, travel agencies are able to provide a personal touch for travelers. In
doing this, they increase customer satisfaction rates and their services remain in high
demand by leisure travelers, business travelers, and tourists.
How To Start A Travel Agency

Every business requires planning. In planning, one needs to consider the area of interest,
the start-up cost, the target market, human resources, and other vital aspects. Therefore,
we have highlighted below the basic steps required to succeed in the travel agency
business.

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Step 1 – Create A Niche
Travel agencies deal in a wide array of

services. The business can focus on
corporate, luxury, religious, educational, or
specialty trips. Also, it can centre on persons
with disabilities, men, women, athletes,
executives, or any other specific group.
To be effective, it is advisable to find a niche

in the travel market that has not been
explored and grow in it. In doing this, it will
reduce the competition you have to deal
with and make you stand out in the
industry.
To pick a travel agency specialty or niche, you need to conduct thorough market
research and find out what people actually need. Also, it is important to decide if you
want to render a service to people of a particular age, gender, sector, or industry.
In doing all of these, your business will be more effective, and you can build a brand that
will resonate with people in the industry.
Step 2 – Create a Business Plan
A business plan helps you map out the specifics of your business and discover areas of
weakness. It will help you stay on track and will serve as a guide on how to operate. To
get started, check out the comprehensive guide on how to draft a strong business plan
on Entrepreneurs.ng. Also, we can work with you to prepare a business plan that's
tailored to your environment and available funds.
As we have pointed out in previous chapters, a viable business plan should be based on
your market research and analysis. It should include some key points like the existing
competition, pricing, product, organizational structure, aims and objectives, financial
plans, and projections. Also, it should contain the description of the business, your niche,
your goals, and how you intend to overcome the challenges you will likely face in the
travel industry.

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As long as you have a business plan, it will be easier to secure funds from banks and
other financial institutions.
Step 3 – Secure Funding
Financial resources are important to start and to maintain a business. Having enough
funds allows you to bring your ideas to life.
As a travel agency, you need funds to set up an office, build a website, create
promotional material, and pay for labour. Besides, to keep operating smoothly after the
business has been set up, it is important to set aside some cash for the day-to-day
activities for the first 1-4 months. Therefore, you must ensure that you have a source of
capital before you swim into the “ocean”.
Decide if your personal savings are enough to set up the business. If not, you will have to
source for funding through crowdfunding or by reaching out to family and friends for
support. Also, you can write to commercial or microfinance banks for loans or approach
private investors for their support. Another great option is to team up with people who
are also interested in the travel industry and form a partnership.
Step 4 – Register Your Travel Agency
After you’ve set up your office, whether virtual or physical, you need to register the
business. A travel agency can be structured as a limited liability company, a sole
proprietorship, or can be set up as a host, franchising, or consortium structure. Also, it
can be a privately-owned company or part of a larger entity. Whatever structure you
want the business to take, it must be registered.
You should register with the Corporate Affairs Commission, an agency in charge of
business registration in Nigeria. This can be done through the online portal of the
commission or by approaching ReDahlia as our firm deals with business registrations
and providing business solution services to entrepreneurs.
Secondly, if you are hoping to operate on a large scale, you will have to obtain a license
from the International Air Transport Association (IATA). You have to meet certain
criteria before applying for the license. To obtain the license, log on to the official
website, and follow the process for license application.
Thereafter, proceed to register with the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA). The
NCCA regulates, supervises, and monitors the activities of travel and other aviation
agents operating in Nigeria.

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If you want to operate on a large scale, you can write to the Director-General of NCAA
attaching the following documents:
• Certificate of incorporation
• Memorandum and articles of association
• Tax clearance
• Curriculum vitae of the directors
• Details of insurance
• Evidence of agency appointment
• Evidence of IATA accreditation (if any)
• Corporate company profile
• Receipt of payment of N10,000
Step 5 – Get A Host
Depending on the start-up capital, you can decide to start as an independent agency or
pay a host agency. This way, the host agency takes care of all regulatory policies,
provides office requirements, and splits the commission with you. The host also provides
brochures and other marketing materials, while you just focus on serving as a travel
agent under them. So, if you are planning to be a home-based travel agent, you can
approach a travel agency that will serve as a host while you join as an independent
contractor.
However, if you have the resources to start the business ground up, you can create your
own brand, be the host, and build your own client base. You will need to get the
necessary license in your name, secure a location, set up an office, hire employees, and
invest in the promotion of the business both online and offline.
Step 6 – Secure Location
For more credibility as an agency, it is important to have a physical business location, no

matter how small it may be. This is because the location is one of the most important
factors for success in the business. It positions a business to attract the right customers
and clients.
A travel agency should be located in an area that is easily accessible to the target
audience. Also, it should be well designed to reflect the brand and large enough to
accommodate the team and the incoming clients. Moreover, the agency should have a
signpost that signals your services to passers-by. This will create awareness for the
brand and attract new customers.

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Step 7 – Hire Employees
It is perfectly acceptable to start alone if you want to operate

on a small scale. However, if you intend to offer services to a
wide array of clients, you might have to hire travel agents or
support staff that will maintain the operations of the
business. These people must share the same value and
understand the vision of what you are building.
Some of the staff that matter in a travel agency business are

the Client Service Manager, Travel Consultant, Sales, and
Partnership Director. You can hire full-time or part-time
staff depending on your needs.
Step 8 – Market the Agency
Selling is the lifeblood of every business, and to sell, you need

to create brand awareness and let the world know what
your business is offering.
To market your brand properly, it is ideal to come up with a marketing plan. This will
serve as a blueprint on how to market, promote, brand, and create a positive perception
of the brand. Marketing your travel agency can be done in a number of ways and must
be tailored to the target audience’s consumption habits.
Keep reading for some great marketing tips.
A. Create A Logo and Website
First, your business needs to have a unique logo, a website, business cards, flyers, and
brochures. Your logo should be timeless and communicate your brand offering.
The website should explain what your business can do for clients and should be
optimised for search engine ranking (SEO). This will allow your business to be found
organically when people search for keywords in your industry on Google. Contact
ReDahlia for some great consultation on SEO.
B. Social Media
Leverage social media platforms to promote your business, by creating a page on

Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, etc. Offer value to your audience and advertise
and promote your business on your page.

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Also, approach existing customers to give testimonials and positive reviews about your
service, and share these on your platforms. This way, you can honestly convince the
audience that you offer the best services.
C. Ask for Referrals
Once you offer a credible service to a client, never hesitate to ask for a referral. A client
will be happy to refer you to friends and family if you have done a good job. You can
have a referral package whereby clients can receive a commission or a discount if they
successfully refer you to someone else.
D. Word of Mouth Advert
Word of mouth advertising is still the most reliable form of advertising for any business.
Let people know about the service you offer, tell your friends to tell their friends and
family. Let the word spread. Do not pass on any opportunity to market your service.
How Much Will It Cost to Launch Your Travel Agency

Business?
Now, you must be wondering just how much capital you need upfront to run an
international business like a travel agency. Assuming that you will first launch your
business and run it alone for some time, here are the investments you can expect to make
as an independent travel agency:
Registration and Permit Requirements
1. Business Registration: N20,000 for name registration with ReDahlia
2. Licence from International Air Transport Association (IATA). Applying and

registering with the IATA requires that you make payments using one of two options:
CASH and NO CASH. The NO CASH payments must be done through approved IATA
means not just regular bank cards/online payments.
There are also two types of licenses you can receive: one to operate within a local
market, following local accreditation requirements, and another to operate multi-
nationally, following global accreditation guidelines. Spoiler alert: it does not come cheap
to receive a multi-national accreditation. (All of the fees included herein were obtained
from the IATA Travel Agent Handbook, 2020, and converted from Swiss Francs to
Nigerian Naira.)

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Local Accreditation
Cash
• Registration Fee: N205,800

• Application Fee: N411,700
• Annual Fee (also required for application):
N82,300
No Cash

• Annual Fee (also required for application):
N82,300
Multi-national Accreditation
Both Cash and No Cash

• Annual Fee (also required for application): N19.8
million
3. Registration with the Nigerian Civil

Aviation Authority (NCAA): N10,000
Other Requirements
4. Office Space: varies with location and size.
5. Marketing Material:
• N3,500 for 100 one-sided business cards from Printivo and Kiakia Print.
• N2,500 – N3,500 for 100 one-sided flyers
6. Fairly used Windows Laptop: Varies based on model from N35,000 to N150,000.
7. Hosting Your WordPress Store: Bluehost offers a basic plan for new websites:
The travel industry is a fascinating albeit competitive business. And depending on your
resources, it can be very capital intensive. You will need to have a well-developed brand
to stand out in general, but it is perfectly doable even as countries begin to reopen
airlines. You will need some patience and a good promotional marketing effort to soar.

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CHAPTER 9: POS BUSINESS
The POS business is a legitimate way to make money in Nigeria. It’s more profitable in
communities with no banks and places where ATMs are not enough to serve the
financial needs of the community. It is also called the “agent banking business”, and it’s
an extension of the services offered by financial institutions to enable easy service
offerings to a wide range of customers.
The POS (Point of Sale) business offers services like funds transfer and withdrawal, sales
of airtime, bill payments like GOTV, DSTV, Startimes, PHCN, and other utility bills. It is
used in several places where goods and services are sold/rendered; places like retail
shops, offices, supermarkets, fuel/gas stations, pharmacies, and eateries.
By creating easy access for financial transactions in different localities, the POS business
has given individuals and business owners additional means of income. They are even
sometimes called bank agents.
Though as a POS business-owner, you are not a direct employee of a bank, you would
deliver banking services on behalf of banks on an agreed commission. It is a profitable
business and one of the best means of getting passive income.

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If you’ve ever thought about starting a POS business in your community, this chapter
contains all the information you need to fully set up as a bank agent.
POS Business
Basically, the POS business began in 2013, after the Central Bank of Nigeria released its
guideline on the operations and management of the business. Since then, it has remained
one of the retail channels of several commercial banks to make their banking services
reach a larger number of people.
A banking agent or POS business-owner operates a retail outlet. He or she conducts the
financial transaction and allows clients to deposit, withdraw, transfer funds, pay bills,
recharge airtime, retrieve customer’s account balance, and other related services.
This business thrives more in rural areas, semi-urban centres, and the unbanked and
underbanked communities. It is similar to any other remote banking channel. The banks
equip the agents with the tools for the business, such as a point-of-sale (POS) card reader,
a mobile phone, and other bits of equipment. The agents function as third parties and
work with as many banks as they can serve.
If you already have an existing small business that brings in cash on a daily basis, you
can diversify your revenue streams by venturing into the POS business.
How To Start POS Business In Nigeria

As we’ve stated previously, the POS business thrives most in rural areas or semi-urban
centres – that is, in places where there are no banks, or only a few ATMs to serve the
people. If you intend to venture into this business, the first thing is to be sure that the
number of banks in your location cannot serve the community. This way, you are sure of
making a profit.
In this chapter we’ve outlined a step-by-step plan on how to start a POS business in
Nigeria and the basic things, you need to get started.
Step 1 – Have An Existing Business
The POS business has to do with finance and must, therefore, be approached carefully. In
addition, the Central Bank of Nigeria is very particular about the business entities that
qualify to be agents. So, extra care is taken by commercial banks before they authorise
an agent for their retail banking.

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REGISTRATION
To be eligible, you must have had an existing
business in operation for at least 12 months.
Also, you must have a shop or office from
which you operate. Finally, you must have
been registered with the Corporate Affairs
Commission as any of the following entities:
• Limited Liability Company
• Sole Proprietorship
• Partnership
• Cooperative Societies
• Public Entities
• Trusts or any other entity aside faith-
based or NGOs.
As long as you have any of the above requirements, doing a POS business or serving as a
bank agent is possible.
Step 2 –Approach A Bank
Virtually, all Nigerian banks allow agent banking services. Therefore, as soon as you
decide on the bank of your choice, the next thing is to approach the bank and get details
on the requirements specific to them. The CBN guide permits you to become an agent for
as many banks as you can serve.
To apply, you will need to fill out some documents/agreement forms on the transaction
conditions. Also, you must have an account that can receive direct deposit for business
purposes, and you must also provide some documentation as part of the application.
Some of the required documentation includes:
• A valid means of identification – for example; a driver’s license, National ID card,

International passport or voter’s card.
• Bank Verification Number (BVN)
• 2 passport photographs
• 2 current account references
• Evidence of business registration (CAC Certificate)
• Tax Identification Number (TIN)

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• Memorandum and Article of Association.

• Credit Bureau Report
• A minimum working capital of N50,000
Step 3 – Get The Equipment
Once your application to the bank has been reviewed and approved in line with CBN and
internal criteria, the bank supplies the needed tools and equipment for the business.
Besides the mobile phone, the following materials are usually supplied by the bank (as
earlier mentioned):
• Point of Sale (POS) Terminal: this is the portable device that facilitates payments of
goods and services at bank agent locations using payment cards.
• Card reader
• Barcode scanner to scan bills for bill payment transactions
• Personal Identification Number (PIN) pads
• A personal computer
Step 4 – Pick A Location For Your Business
For you to thrive in the business, it’s advisable to choose a location with limited banks or
communities with few ATMs. Also, it is wise to set up shop at strategic locations like the
bus stop, public market, event centres, and other high-traffic areas. All of these factors
will have a great effect on your daily profit.
Once you have a good location, you can construct a shed or a shop with enough space for
easy movement for you and the customers. Put up a banner at the entrance to show the
retail banking services you offer. Then, for security measures, you can have a special
purse/pouch around your neck or a safe with a strong lock to prevent theft and
burglary.
Also, if you notice that an ATM is not dispensing cash, you can go there to advertise your
service. Some people there in need of cash might subscribe to your service.
Step 5 – Render Services
Your job as a POS agent is to use POS terminals, card readers, mobile phones, and bank
linked mobile wallets to process real-time bank transactions.

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As soon as you have these, the next step is to start providing the following services:
• Cash deposit and withdrawal

• Balance inquiry
• Fund transfer services (local money value transfer)
• Bill payment (taxes, utilities, tenement rates, subscriptions, etc.)
• Generation and issuance of mini statements
• Cash disbursement and cash repayment of loans
• Agent mobile payments/banking services
How It Works
In the POS business, the client first requests a transaction like money withdrawal, money
transfer, or bill payment and presents you with their debit card. Next, as the agent, you
select the type of transaction on the POS terminal device, you enter the requested
amount then insert the debit card into the device and ask the client to enter their four-
digit pin. Using the network, the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) connects with the
bank’s server to authorise the transaction. When successful, it immediately prints out the
receipt.
This process can be repeated for as many customers as you can, as long as you abide by
the transaction rules of your host (bank).
The Importance Of POS Business

With a POS business, banks can now reach a larger demographic. Also, the business
offers more flexible and convenient access to existing and new customers. In addition,
the POS business also aids the safety of customers and eliminates the need to travel long
distances to find a bank. Most importantly, this business plays a big role in boosting
financial inclusion, especially to people in rural areas.
Of course, the business has provided job opportunities and financial stability by helping
the agent make money in the following ways:
1. Commission: Banks pay agents commission based on the volume of transactions

carried out on their behalf.
2. Service Charges: By rendering services to customers, you can also charge them a
particular amount especially on bills payments, taxes, and subscriptions.
3. Float: Depending on your cash management policy, you can also make use of cash
deposits and net of withdrawal for your primary business.

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By operating this business, you are not only increasing your stream of income, but you
are also serving the needs of the people in your community.
How Much Will It Cost to Start a POS Business?

Assuming you have already set up your primary business, which is required to even
start the POS business, you will need very little capital to launch the POS business. The
only money investments you will need to make are:
• As previously mentioned, a minimum working capital of N50,000 in your

account.
• Passport photographs: N500 – N1000 for 8 copies of basic passport photos
• Credit Bureau Report: you have access to one free report and after that it costs
between N5,000 and N10,000 to obtain a credit report at any of the 3 credit bureau
agencies in Nigeria
In conclusion, a POS business is another way of gaining some passive income. Aside from
your existing business, it is a way to expand service offerings and one of the best
methods to cross-sell your products to walk-in customers. The business needs to be
situated in places with enough security measures in place and a few bank branches. You
are sure to increase your daily revenue if you do these things right!

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CHAPTER 10: MAIZE FARMING BUSINESS
Maize farming is a profitable agribusiness widely cultivated throughout the world. It is

an important staple food and one of the main cereal crops in West Africa. It is one of the
most consumed cereal after sorghum, millet, and rice.
Maize is a crop that is used both domestically and industrially. It’s used for flour milling,
brewing, bread baking, confectionery, manufacturing, and animal feeding. It is an
important source of carbohydrate, protein, iron, vitamin B, and minerals, and can be
consumed in the form of porridge, pap, grits, popcorn, etc. Freshly harvested corn can
be eaten in a roasted or boiled form. All this to say that maize is an extremely versatile
crop and is in constant high demand.
Owning to the increasing Nigerian population, the demand for maize both for domestic
and industrial purposes has been on the rise. Furthermore, in June 2020, the Central
Bank of Nigeria (CBN) banned all importation of maize. They have also pledged strong
support for all Nigerian maize farmers in order to encourage local production and boost
the economy. Frankly, there has never been a better time to take up maize farming.

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Maize Farming
Maize or “corn” farming is a popular farming business in Nigeria. Maize farming can be
done on a small or large scale in any part of the country but is mostly done in the
Northern region for commercial purposes.
Today, Nigeria is the 11th largest producer of maize in the world, and the 2nd largest
producer in Africa after South Africa. The process has become easier especially through
the use of modern tools from the planting to the processing stage.
A little monetary investment in maize farming can yield a great profit. For instance, the
hybrid maize with a mechanized system of farming can yield up to 10.2 tonnes per
hectare, while the manual type of cultivation can yield up to 2.1 tonnes per hectare.
Uses Of Maize
Maize has remained a key food crop in Africa, Latin America, and Asia. Furthermore, it is
one of the most common foods for livestock and humans alike. For humans, it serves as a
calorie-dense food and an important source of vitamin B, iron, carbohydrate, and
protein. It also serves as a raw material for cereal production in many manufacturing
companies, like Nestle, Kellogg’s, and beer brewery companies.
Additionally, maize can be used or processed traditionally by wet and dry milling
methods to yield a variety of food products. For instance, in Nigeria, it is used to produce
unique, regional dishes like ogi (pap), fufu, corn pottage, tuwo masara, corn pudding,
pito, donkwa, kokoro, aadun, gwate, etc.
Maize is also one of the preferred raw materials for animal feed production. This is
because it provides livestock with the required nutritional content and energy. It is a
large component of commercial chicken feed, catfish feed as well as cattle feed.
Basically, maize is in demand as an industrial raw material due to its high starch content.
This starch can be processed into additives, agents, and ingredients, such as ethanol,
dextrose, sorbitol, dextrin, and sorbic and lactic acid. These ingredients can then be used
to produce glue, starch, batteries, shoe polish, paint, ink, cosmetics, and perfumes.
Essentially, the market for maize is huge in Nigeria and in every other part of the world.

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How To Start Maize Farming

REGISTRATION
In this section, we will outline a step-by-step
plan on how to start a maize farming business
and become successful at it. If you are aiming
to venture into this business, below are the
basic steps to kick start the process.
You might be surprised to see that registration

is the first step for something like maize
farming. However, selecting a unique company
name and registering it with the Corporate
Affairs Commission (CAC) is just as important
here.
A corporate bank account, the ease in obtaining loans and business credibility amongst
buyers of your maize crop, are all benefits of registration.
Your business can be registered as a one-person business or as a limited liability

company, but whatever you decide, it should be in line with your company’s goals and
long-term objectives. To start the process, log on to the official website of the CAC or
instead, contact ReDahlia. ReDahlia is located at 43B Emina Crescent, off Toyin Street,
Ikeja Lagos. We make the registration process painless and affordable for all sorts of
businesses.
Step 2 – Create A Business Plan
Creating a business plan is, of course, a vital part of every successful business. The
business plan documents the vision, mission, aims, and objectives of your business.
A viable business plan for maize farming should contain the industry overview, maize
market analysis, operation costs of farming and processing, pricing, swot analysis, and
financial projections for the first 1-5 years of operation.
Having a business plan will also make it easier to access grants, bank loans and other
funds tailored to farmers.

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It’s easy to secure funding if you are in the agricultural business. For example, the
Nigerian government, through the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), provides numerous
agricultural loans to farmers. These loans and grants are projected to rise in number
with the new ban on maize importation.
Besides the government, you can approach private investors or team up with other
farmers to form a business partnership. Otherwise, if you have savings or assets, these
can be liquidated to raise money for the business.
The bulk of the capital will go into land acquisition, land preparation, purchasing seed,
labour cost, working tools and equipment, pesticides, marketing, and finally, processing.
If you have enough funds, obtaining mechanical farming equipment can make the
business very easy. Some useful equipment includes:
• Tractor
• Planter
• Hoe/rototiller
• Mower
• Truck
• Plough
• Soil cultivator
• Broadcast seeder
• Transplanter
Step 4 – Find a Piece of Land
Although maize can be grown in almost every type of soil, it is most ideal to cultivate
maize on well-drained, sandy loam or loamy soil. Also, maize grows best with
temperatures between 26 and 30°C and rainfall between 75 to 150 cm per annum.
Additionally, the soil needs to be rich in organic content and should have a good water
retention capacity. When selecting a piece of land for your farm, it is important to
consider all of these factors.
You can look into getting 2-3 hectares of land in some of the major maize producing
states like Adamawa, Kebbi, Jigawa, Niger, Nassarawa, and so on, or in other regions of
your choice. Once you have acquired the land, the next thing is to prepare it for planting.

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Step 5 – Prepare the Land
Land preparation can be done mechanically, chemically, or manually. The most

important thing is to uproot weeds and remove the remains of previously grown crops
from the land. However, if the land was used for maize cultivation previously, it’s okay to
incorporate residue of the previous crop into the soil. Also, maize can be planted on the
same land used for cassava farming or can be planted side by side.
Next, you need to loosen the soil to form a good seedbed, and then plough the land to
bring the soil to a fine tilt by preserving the topsoil when uprooting and clearing trees.
Once the land has been prepared, the maize should be planted immediately. This will
allow the maize to germinate ahead of weeds.
Step 6 – Plant the Seed
There are two major seasons for planting maize in Nigeria: the early season and the late
season.
For the early season, if your land is within a forest zone, the best time for planting is
between 15 March to 1 April, or as soon as rainfall becomes steady. Similarly, if your farm
is within the derived Savannah zone, it is best to plant as soon as rainfall becomes steady.
On the other hand, in the Southern Guinea Savannah Zone, planting is best for May and
June depending on the volume of rainfall.
Some types of maize varieties for early season are:

• Yellow Open-Pollinated Varieties – Western Yellow 1: TZSR-Y-1 (Streak Resistant)
and Western Yellow 1: TZSR-Y-1 (Streak Resistant)
• Yellow Hybrid Varieties – 8425-8 and 8329-15
• White Open-Pollinated Varieties – TZPB (FARZ 27) and TZB (FARZ 34)
• White Hybrids – 8321-18 and 9022-19 (Striga Resistant)
For the late season, it is preferable to plant between the first half of the month of August,
especially in areas where rainfall is likely to be adequate. During this period, you can
plant an early maturing streak of maize and/or a downy mildew resistant variety, such
as:
• Yellow Open-Pollinated Varieties - Tzesr-y and Dmr-esry.
• White-open pollinated varieties - TZESR-W and DMR-ESRW.
• Popcorn Variety - White Pop and Yellow composite.

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How To Plant
As soon as you have decided on what variety of seed to

plant, the next thing, of course, is to plant. Maize seed can be
planted manually using a hoe or mechanically with a
rototiller.
First of all, till the soil to a depth of 6 inches, then, make

mounds or ridges and insert four kernels of corn facing
upwards inside one mound and close the soil loosely.
Continue this pattern for other mounds on the farm.
If planted mechanically, the depth planting should not be

more than 5 cm (2 inches). Be sure to pace the rows about
30-36 inches apart and repeat the same method for all the
ridges.
Step 7 – Control Pest And Diseases
Maize farming is susceptible to pests and diseases and this can cause great damage to
the plants. Depending on the time of infection, there can be a loss of about 10 to 100% of
crop if care is not taken.
Some of the common weeds and diseases that infest maize are downey mildew, rust, leaf
blight, stalk, ear rots, leaf spots, maize streak virus, and striga. For instance, striga, also
known as witchweed, is one of the most dangerous weeds common in the Savanna area
of Nigeria.
Also, there are pests like corn borers, wireworms, cutworms, flea beetle termites,
storage insects, beetles, and so on. Stem borers, particularly, are very dangerous and can
cause a loss of 20-40% during cultivation and 30-90% post-harvest storage.
In order to get a good yield and minimise the effects of pests and diseases, you can weed
3-4 times at regular intervals using a hoe or using specific herbicides. Also, you can use
herbicides/pesticides or other appropriate chemicals like Nitrogen after two weeks of
planting and at other appropriate intervals.
Nitrogen happens to be a constituent element of protein and also an integral component

of compounds essential for plant growth such as chlorophyll.

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By adding nitrogen to the soil, the fertility level of the land will improve which will then
yield good crops.
In addition, you can use traps or fence the farm round to prevent raccoons and bats from
coming in. Planting other disease-resistant varieties around the maize would also go a
long way in protecting your harvest.
Step 8 – Harvest
Maize matures fast and it is possible to harvest within 2-5 months of planting. The
variation in time depends on the variety and weather.
As soon as the ears of the maize turn dark green, the corn silk turns brown and the
kernels are soft and plump, the maize is ready to be harvested. Harvesting as well as
planting can be manually or mechanically depending on the size of the land.
To harvest manually, pull the ears from the stalk of the plant by hand. To harvest
mechanically, you can use machines like corn-pickers or corn-shellers. These machines
harvest, shuck ears of maize, and pre-clean the corn kernels.
Step 9 – Market Your Product
As we keep emphasizing in this book, it is not enough to have a product; equally

important is knowing how to sell the product. This requires creating awareness about
your product’s place in the market.
In the case of maize, if you have a large farm, with a standard business structure in
place, you can write proposals to manufacturing companies whose raw materials
include maize. Write a detailed proposal and pitch what they stand to gain if they make
you their supplier.
Also, build an online presence using a website optimised for search engines. Design a
unique logo, business card, fliers, and make sure to distribute them to your target
market.
Equally, leverage social media platforms and build a community on Facebook, Instagram,
Twitter, etc. On these platforms, you can post the daily activities going on the farm. This
way, you are sure to create awareness, entertain your audience, and gain new customers
once the crop is ready.
Moreover, you can sell your product directly to local traders, roadside roasters, or
individuals. Furthermore, build relationships with other farmers in both crop and
livestock. They can refer new customers to you.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start a Maize Farming

Business?
So, how much money do you need to drop to become a maize farmer? The answer is, it
depends on the size of your farming land and how mechanised you plan to make the
farming at the get-go. Here is a rundown of capital you can expect to invest into a semi-
mechanised farm with some part-time labour on medium size of land:
1. Business Registration: N20,000 at ReDahlia

3. NAFDAC Registration Number (if you intend on selling processed maize products) –
However, note that for MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) registration since
May 2020 has been subsidised by up to 80% due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out
Entrepreneur.ng’s articles for more details on how the pandemic has affected Nigerian
businesses.
Equipment
4. Brand new Hand-Operated Tractor (for ploughing and other activities): N150,000-
N300,000
5. Hand -Pushed Planter: N8,000 – N45,000(price varies with size)
6. Quality Hoe, Shovel, and Cutlass: N1500 – N3,000 each.
7. Hybrid Maize Seeds: N1,500- N4,000 (varies with how resistant the seeds are to
disease)
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8. Harvester or Planter (1): N54,900 /month or N25,000 part-time

9. Tractor operator: N60,000 /month
10. Driver and truck rental to take produce to the market: N71,000 /month
Other Requirements

12. Hosting Your Website: Bluehost offers a basic plan for new websites:
Compared to other farming businesses, explored in this book and on Entrepreneurs.ng,

maize farming doesn’t actually require a lot of training or capital before you can start.
Nonetheless, it is very important to be constantly learning and researching better ways
of operating.
In all, maize farming is a sustainable business with a high chance of survival. Once there
is adequate rainfall, pest management and diligence in following the highlighted steps,
you can expect a highly favourable outcome.

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CHAPTER 11: CALL CENTRE BUSINESS
Unusual as it may sound, a call centre business is a really effective way to earn extra
income. Call centre services are in high demand all over the world. Despite great
technological advancements in recent times, most companies still prefer to outsource
their calls to contact centre agents.
Call centres assist these organisations in meeting up with the demands of their
customers. Their services are an extension of brand services and allow a company to
interact and retain loyal customers.
Generally, many businesses outsource their calls due to the flexibility that call centre
services offer. These services are often not available in-house in typical companies. With
a call centre, companies do not have to take up additional space or worry about
extending normal work hours to service customers’ needs. Instead, they employ the
services of call agents and leave that aspect of customer service to them.
In a call centre business, help is available to customers at all times. Therefore, it can be
operated from home, from an office space of the sort ReDahlia provides, or from any
secure location at every hour of the day.

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If you are interested in rendering customer support services to companies of different

kinds, a call centre business is the best business for you. Stick with us, and in this chapter,
we’ll go through the ins and outs of the call centre business.
Call Centre Business

A call centre is an office of representatives that receives or transmits a high volume of
inquiries from customers and potential customers. These representatives provide
information about a company and provide support for the company’s products or
services.
A call centre can be organised to serve a number of business purposes in sales and
marketing, lead generation, customer service, or even tech support. And as we touched
on earlier, the call centre can function as a department in a larger company or as a
completely independent business.
Apart from calls, a call centre might also handle other forms of communication, like
letters, faxes, social media, e-mail, live support software and instant messaging. In
addition, they can operate up to 24 hours a day, and 7 days a week. Nonetheless, a call
centre is more than a room full of phones with people answering calls. The people who
work in call centres have to be trained and familiarized with their employers’ policies.
Types Of Call Centre

There are two major kinds of call centre businesses you can operate: inbound and
outbound.
A. Inbound Call Centre
An inbound call centre is operated by a company to provide service support, take orders,
and answer questions from customers. The company creates it to handle incoming
customer queries. These queries include email responses, technology support,
complaints, and claims.
The centre can be located within the corporate office itself or at another central location
with many call agents working together. In essence, inbound calls can be remotely done
from home or from a commercial office space.

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B. Outbound Call Centre
Outbound call centres exist for telemarketing,

solicitation for donations, debt collection
management, market research surveys, election
polling and so on. In other words, an outbound
call centre reaches out to external parties instead
of just receiving calls from external parties. Of
course, outbound calls can also be made in an
inbound call centre if the need arises.
Other Areas In Which Call

Centres Operate
Telemarketing
Telemarketing is the advertisement of a product

or service through telephone calls. This usually
involves describing key features or informing
potential customers about special discounts. It is a
way of gaining new customers.
Web-enabled Service
If you run a web-enabled service, customers may

want guidance or information before placing an
order. Therefore, they can make a call, which will
come through the computer and be addressed at a call centre.
Now that you have an idea of the basic types of call centre businesses, it’s time for us to
outline how you can start this business.
How To Start A Call Centre Business
Step 1 – Create A Niche
First, you need to identify the type or niche of the call centre business you want to
operate. For example, you could decide to focus on receiving inbound calls for the
tech industry or the oil and gas industry.

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To make this decision, you must have done the research to understand what is accessible
and in demand in the industry. As soon as you decide on your niche, the next thing is to
swing into action properly.
Step 2 – Write A Business Plan
A business plan helps you identify what you need to scale in a business. It states the
mission, vision, organisational structure, marketing strategy, pricing, product or service
information, financial projection of the business. It is a good reference point and a map
that gives a sense of direction in the business.
In writing your business plan, first conduct a survey on the nature of the call centre
business: how it works and who your competitors are in your niche. The results will be
documented and can be modified to address changes that may occur in the future.
ReDahlia provides comprehensive one-on-one consulting services to entrepreneurs and
can write the entire plan for your business from scratch.
Step 3 – Register with CAC and NCC
As we have learned so far, every business owner who wants to run a structured business
must register the business with the relevant authorities. A registered business is credible
and will allow you access opportunities tailored to entrepreneurs.
To register your business, choose a name, and proceed to register on the Corporate
Affairs Commission (CAC) website. This is a service that ReDahlia offers seamlessly.
After registering your business with the CAC, you will need to register with the Nigerian
Communication Commission (NCC), the body that regulates the communication sector in
Nigeria. You can log on to www.ncc.gov.ng, the official website of NCC, and upload the
required documents to process a license.
Documents Needed for NCC License Process

• A bank draft of N1,000 payable to NCC.
• Certificate of Incorporation
• Tax Clearance Certificate
• Certified true copy of Articles and Memorandum of Association
• 2 passports photographs of authorised representative
• Certificate of qualified technical staff
• License fee on submission of application – N10,000

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Step 4 – Set Up An Office
A call centre business can start from the comfort of one’s room and expand to an office
space as the business grows. If you want to operate from a commercial office, you could
lease or rent an office in a serene environment, accessible to both employees and clients.
Then, set up desks and chairs, positioning them in a way that call representatives can
freely access their computer and other communication equipment.
Step 5 – Tools and Equipment
Some of the basic equipment needed in a call centre are:
Desktop/laptop: a computer system set on the desk for imputing information. The
information can be stored on the cloud with a connection to the internet.
Headsets: a microphone and listening device to listen and speak for convenience instead
of traditional phones.
Predictive Dialler: a computer program that dials a batch of multiple telephone

numbers automatically.
Data Handler: a system that organizes and stores data of different classes.
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP): a system that allows telephone calls through an
internet connection instead of a telephone line. With it, call monitoring and recording is
easier to do.
Call Recording Software: software for managing and monitoring the quality of
incoming and outgoing calls. Calls can be recorded allowing you to evaluate specific calls
later if the need arises. They are commonly used with VoIP systems.
Interactive Voice Response (IVR): a software feature that easily connects customers to
the qualified agent.
Some of the software that performs the function listed above include; Five9, PureCloud,
PhoneBurner, Phonexa, VAgent, Avoxi Genius, Zendesk, CloudTalk, Nextiva, and Diva.

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Step 6 – Hire A Team
This is a sensitive area in the call centre business

and must be carefully done. It requires hiring a
team of agents who have a natural ability in
customer services as well as listening and
conversation skills.
Also, your agents should be willing to learn, have

an excellent memory, decision-making ability,
and an enthusiastic attitude.
In hiring, you can choose to hire experienced

client service managers. However, the traits
needed to excel in this business can always be
taught. In that vein, there should be an on-
boarding process that communicates the
business ethic before an employee can start
work.
For training, you can develop a call centre handbook or share online training videos that
new recruits will learn from for a few days before getting on the calling seat. You must
ensure that your team knows and stays abreast of the likely questions that may come up
and the best answers to those questions. Furthermore, they must be trained to see
customer complaints as an opportunity to provide great service and represent the brand
in the best light.
Some important members of staff to hire as your business expands are:
A. Team Leader: These are hands-on leaders who handle the daily operations of the
centre. They motivate, hire, and train staff.
B. Call Centre Manager: They oversee the centre and the activities of the customer
service officers. Also, they work with the team leader to establish call centre processes,
policies, and strategies.
C. Customer Service Officers: They receive inbound and outbound calls and answer
questions and queries in a timely manner. They do this with the knowledge they have on
the company’s products and services.

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Step 7 – Promote The Business
As soon as everything is set, you need to start looking into ways of attracting potential
clients for your call centre business. It requires a lot of strategic marketing to convince
large and small businesses that outsourcing their call services to you is one of the best
options to drive customer satisfaction.
In the following paragraphs, we will highlight the strategies you can use to promote your
call centre business.
Strategies For Promotion
First, do some research on potential clients before contacting them directly. Communicate
the advantages of outsourcing their customer service management and detail the value you
can offer. In fact, it is a great idea to create a PowerPoint presentation that explains exactly
how increasing customer satisfaction with a call centre service can also maximise a
company’s customer lifetime value and total profits.
Secondly, create social media profiles and join communities of dedicated professionals. In
the community, share valuable content about your industry and engage intelligently with
other content.
In addition, create a website that is optimized for search engines (SEO). The website should
have a perfect description of your service offering and should be regularly updated. On
your website, share testimonials of clients with whom you have worked.
Furthermore, invest in marketing materials like business cards, flyers, and brochures that
you can distribute when you attend relevant events.
Important Tips For The Call Centre Business

To operate a call centre business anywhere in the world, you must understand that it is an
evolving business. Customer expectations are always changing. Therefore, you need to
learn how to keep up with the pace.
One of the ways to keep up with trends is to attend seminars and conferences that centre
on customer satisfaction. At the seminars, engage with other professionals and discuss the
latest trends other call centres are using. These conferences can even take place entirely
online.
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Next, routinely evaluate your call centre

performance and objectives. Invest in knowledge
management, performance management, and
quality monitoring services within your team.
Create a process to consistently track important
call centre metrics like customer satisfaction,
contact quality, and abandonment rates. This can
easily be done with the use of customer service
software.
Also, to render services to a wider range of

people, you should operate a multilingual
customer support service. Ensure you have within
your team, at least a few individuals who are
multilingual. This can be agents who speak and
understand English, Pidgin, Igbo, Yoruba Spanish,
or French. This will allow you to render services
to people of different ethnic groups and
nationalities.
How Much Will It Cost To Start

A Call Centre?
Setting up a call centre business can be quite
capital intensive. Here is break down of the
investments you can expect to make to run a
small call centre:

2. A bank draft of N1,000 payable to NCC.
3. License fee on submission of the application to NCC – N10,000
4. Passport photographs: N500 – N1000 for 8 copies of basic passport photos
Office and Personnel
5. Fairly Used Windows Laptop (2): N35,000 – N150,000 for one

6. New Headset: at least N14,000 for one
7. Customer Service Officer: N75,000- N90,000/month

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8. Office Space: ReDahlia offers private and semi-private workspaces with free coffee,
free and fast Wi-Fi, and easy access.
Digital Tools
9. Predictive Dialler Software: Call Centre Hosting offers one of the most affordable
software on the market.
Their cheapest plan, perfect for a small call centre costs N27,100 /agent/month for up to 5
agents. The price per agent goes up as the number of agents increase. It also requires no
extra hardware; your laptop is enough.
10. Data Handler: Altibase (open source/free)

11. Voice-over Internet Protocol (VoIP): Ring Central costs N7,750/agent/month
12. Call Recording Software: Oreka GPL (open-source/free)
13. Interactive Voice Response (IVR): Asterisk (open source/free)

Marketing
The call centre business is a highly viable and scalable business. There are several
companies out there who possess neither the resources nor the know-how to handle all
their customer inquiries. These companies would be excited to accept your call centre’s
high-quality services and boost their revenue and retain customers.

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CHAPTER 12: SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS
The solar energy business is a viable business because the availability of constant power
supply is still a big issue in many parts of the world. For example, in Nigeria, both
businesses and households are expending money on fuel and diesel on a daily basis. As a
result, many are beginning to seek an alternative solution to power issues.
Solar energy has proven to be a great substitute to fossil fuels like fuel and diesel. It is
quickly becoming cheaper than fossil fuels and saves the environment from the noise and
environmental pollution caused by generator sets.
If you are considering starting a solar energy business in Nigeria, you are taking a step in
the right direction. However, you must also know that solar energy business can be
capital intensive depending on the level you want to operate.
What Is Solar Energy?
Basically, solar energy is the heat and light that comes from the sun. We can harness this
energy and convert it to electricity or use the sun’s heat to make hot water.

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In this chapter, we’ll focus on the electricity aspect of things and go into detail on all you
need to know to start your own solar energy business.
How To Start Solar Energy Business In Nigeria
Step 1– Register Your Business
The first step to structuring your solar energy business would be to register it with the
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). CAC is the approved body for business registration
in Nigeria.
To save yourself from the rigours of registering your business yourself, it is advisable to
get an expert to do it for you. One of the firms you can trust to help you register your
business anywhere in Nigeria is ReDahlia. We are located at 43B, Emina Crescent Off
Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos, but you don’t even have to visit ReDahlia to register. Just send
all your details via email and your certificate will be sent to you once it’s ready.
Additionally, you need to register with relevant government ministries or agencies to

avoid any form of business interruption or court action. Also, register with the relevant
union in the solar energy business so that you can fall back on them whenever you need
help or when you face any challenge.
Step 2 – Choose A Niche
When starting a solar energy business, your business can operate in four different
capacities:
A. Distributor of Solar Energy Products
Here, you will need to partner with companies manufacturing solar energy products.
Some of the popular companies in Nigeria are:
• Astrum Energy Solutions Ltd, Enugu
• GreenPower Overseas Ltd, Lagos
• Infinite Solar Solutions Nigeria Ltd, Abuja
• Luminity Technologies And Gadgets, Lagos
• Mpower S.E Nig Ltd, Abuja
• BERSH (Solar House) Ltd, Lagos
• Haipo Solar, Delta
• Phlemin Integrated Global Ltd, Lagos

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• Frepower Technologies, Lagos

• VPS Energy, Lagos
• GEKEL Integrated Ventures Ltd
• ICellPower Energy Ltd, Lagos
• Orgone Tecnergy Ltd, Kaduna
• Raph Mart Engineering Services Ltd, Lagos
• Indra Power NG, Abuja
The interesting part of this business is that you don’t need to have a huge start-up capital
to begin. You can visit these companies, bargain prices with them, and begin advertising
to prospective customers. Once you get pictures of the equipment, you can post them
across social media platforms and advertise them. As soon as your customers make a
payment, you then place an order from the manufacturing company at the agreed price
and sell at a profit.
There are three major components you would be selling:
i. Solar Panel – This helps in tapping energy from the sun

ii. Inverter – This converts direct current (DC) from the solar panels into alternating
current (AC) which is then used to operate your home appliances.
iii. Battery – Energy is stored in the battery, and the inverter automatically switches
to this stored energy once the sun goes down. This battery can also be charged using
a generator or power supply. The batteries come in different sizes: 50ah, 100ah,
200ah, etc. If the inverter draws energy from electricity, it switches to the battery
once the light goes off. Therefore, you will need to invest in the three pieces of
equipment listed above.
B. Installer Of Solar Energy Products
Usually, not everyone in the solar energy business knows how to install the individual
components needed to generate electricity. This means that anyone who purchases an
inverter, panels and batteries, will need someone to set them up.
If you are an electrician or have previous experience with electronics, this might be the
best niche for you. However, regardless of your background, many intensive workshops
are available in Nigeria, all of which teach the skills needed to install these components
successfully. To complete these courses, you will need only a good grasp of secondary
school arithmetic (and physics, if possible) as well as a determination to learn. You can
then partner with sellers of solar energy products so that they can contact you whenever
a customer buys from them and needs an installer.

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In fact, it is advisable that you combine these two

niches (selling and installation) as this will
generate more profit. If you sell solar energy
equipment, understand the nitty-gritty aspects of
installing it, you will be able to offer a complete
service to your customers.
More than that, your customers will need

someone to help them maintain the inverter. If
you can offer all these services to them, they’ll
prefer to work with you.
C. Repairer of Solar Energy Equipment
Another to consider is the “repairer niche”. You

can learn how to repair solar energy equipment
and offer your services to inverter users when
any of their components develops a fault.
This niche also requires collaboration with both sellers and manufacturers.
D. Manufacturer of Solar Energy Equipment
This is the most technical aspect of this business and it requires huge capital, training,
and licenses to begin. There are legislations regulating the solar power business in
Nigeria that you must be familiar with. These legislations include:
• The Companies Allied Matters Act (CAMA), 2004
• The Companies Regulations, 2012
• Nigerian Electricity Regulation Commission’s Regulations for the Application for
License (Generation, Transmission, System Operations, Distribution & Trading), 2010
• Electric Power Sector Reform Act, 2005
Once you select the best niche for yourself, draft a business plan that will accompany it.
A business plan is a document that details your business’s objectives and the strategies
for achieving them. Entrepreneurs.ng will help you prepare a business plan that's
tailored to your need.

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Here is some of the information your business plan should contain:

• an overview of your solar energy business and niche
• executive summary
• general company description
• SWOT analysis
• market research
• business strategy
• team
• marketing plan
• operational plan
• financial projections
• appendix
Step 4 – Get An Office Space
Note that this step is not compulsory if you are starting small. However, if you are
starting on a large scale, it’s best to get an office space where prospective customers can
easily locate you. Preferably, acquire an office where electricity is scarce. Also, choose a
location around people who can afford your equipment. Before venturing into a physical
office, you can also explore virtual workspaces. This is a very affordable but professional
alternative that allows you to have an office address. ReDahlia provides affordable
virtual workspaces all year round through ReDahlia Workspaces.
Step 5 – Market Your Solar Energy Business
Today, advertisement has been made easy due to the advent of the internet and social
media. Open accounts on social media platforms and advertise your business on them.
Other ways to market your business include:
• Word of mouth
• Referral marketing
• Social media influencer marketing
• Google ads
• Collaboration and partnership
Challenge Of the Solar Energy Business
Usually, the most common problem encountered in the solar energy business is that
some customers find it difficult to operate the equipment. This means they tend to
request refunds or mishandle the equipment in their attempt to make it work.

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To avoid this, make sure to follow up with customers with a

manual on how to use the equipment even after installation.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Solar

Energy Business?
In this section, we’ll deal with the first three niches on our list:
Distributor, Installer, and Repairer of Solar Energy Equipment.
Here is a breakdown of the financial investments needed to
fully establish yourself in each of these niches:
Distributor
1. Business Registration: N20,000 with ReDahlia

2. Storage Space: Varies with size and location
3. Wholesale Purchase Inverter: for one unit, N50,000 (for 900VA) – N780,000(for
15kVA). Price increases with VA or kVA. VA: Volt-Ampere. The minimum number of units
you can buy at once varies with manufacturing company.
4. Wholesale Purchase Battery: for one unit, N45,000 (for 100AH) – N122,000 (for
220AH). The price increases with AH: Ampere/Hour. The minimum number of units you
can buy at once varies with manufacturing company.
5. Wholesale Purchase Solar Panels: for one unit, N24,000 (for 160 watts) – N49,000
(for 330 watts). The price increases with power wattage. The minimum number of units
you can buy a once varies with manufacturing company.

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Installer & Repairer

2. Solar Equipment Installation/Repair Course:
• Wavetra Institute + StopLearn Online Course (Free)
• RETTI Hands-On Course: N30,000 – N40,000 (4-7 days)
• Nigerian Solar Affairs Intensive Hands-On Course: N5,000 registration + N106,800
(12 – 16 weeks) or subsidized by local government at N33,000 for NYSC Members (12
– 16 weeks)
3. Basic Installation Tools:

• New Cordless Drill : N21,000 – N70,000
• New Angle Finder: N17,000
• Drill Bits: N12,000 – N15,000
• Protective Earplugs/Earmuffs: N3,000
• Safety glasses: N700 – N1,000
• Safety Gloves: N500 – N1000
• Pliers: N900 – N1200
• Tape Measure: N1,000
• Hammer: N2,000
• Torpedo Level: N7,000 – N8,500
• Hard Safety Hat: N1,000
• Utility Knife: N2,000 – N3,000
It’s worth noting that these are just the basic tools you’ll need for your installation work.
Depending on the project, you will likely have to purchase extra tools and materials to
get the job done.

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In conclusion, the solar energy business is profitable if you know how to navigate your
way around it. The start-up capital required to start this business depends on the size of
your business. However, with N300,000 – N500,000, you should be able to kickstart a
fast-growing solar energy business.

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CHAPTER 13: DROPSHIPPING BUSINESS

In this time, another lucrative business to start is the dropshipping business. The
wonderful thing about the dropshipping business is that you can start with little or no
capital at all.
With some basic knowledge of shipment and a deft hand when dealing with suppliers,
you are halfway to making your business a success! If you are looking to start a business
but don’t have any product to sell, dropshipping allows you to sell products you don’t own
and make a profit while at it. The most important thing to note in dropshipping is what the
top-selling and most in-demand products are.
In this chapter, you will get a step-by-step guide on how the dropshipping business works
and how you can take advantage of it.
What Is Dropshipping?
Dropshipping involves making an agreement with a manufacturer to market its products

on your online store. The products remain in the supplier’s storage while you only need to
have the pictures on your website.

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Once someone orders the product, you’ll receive the money, and place an order for the
product directly from the manufacturer or from their website.
Thereafter, the supplier will deliver the product to your customer. It’s that simple.
Basically, you can see yourself as the middleman between the supplier and the customer.
You don’t need to see or touch the product. Once you have the descriptions of the product
and a matching image, you can start trading immediately.
AliExpress is an online retail service that is made of thousands of manufacturers of a

variety of products. If you are sourcing for products on AliExpress, you may not need to
contact the seller or supplier. All you need to do is place the order on AliExpress and
input your customer’s details as the buyer. AliExpress will, in turn, deliver the product
well packaged to your customer without the customer knowing it’s from AliExpress.
However, if you want to customise the product in some way, for example, print a
particular design on a t-shirt, it is possible to contact the manufacturer and discuss their
terms. In this second scenario, you may or may not have to invest a little money for the
customisation.
Also, AliExpress has a dropshipping plugin called ‘AliDropship plugin’. This plugin is
primarily designed for dropshipping. The plugin makes it possible to import product
descriptions and images from the manufacturer’s website to your store. Additionally,
when a product is sold on your store, it automatically sends the customer’s details to your
supplier. You can then go ahead to pay the supplier. Afterward, the supplier will send the
product to your customer’s address and the customer won’t know that it’s from a third
party.
The Parties Involved In The Dropshipping Business

In the dropshipping business, there are three main parties involved: the manufacturer,
the retailer (you), and the customer.
The duty of the manufacturer in this business model is to create products, replace bad
products, send products to customers on behalf of the retailer and restock products. The
manufacturer sells to the retailer at a wholesale price that allows the retailer to make a
profit.
Your role as a retailer is to market and sell the manufacturer’s products on your website
under your brand name. You’ll be the one to handle the shipping costs and to set the
prices for the product. Once an order is placed, you are responsible for tracking the
progress of the delivery and ensures the customer gets the products they ordered in a
timely fashion.

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The customer, on the other hand, just places orders

on your website and contacts you if there’s any
issue with the product.
Is Dropshipping Profitable?
This might be one of the questions running through
your mind right now. Actually, dropshipping is one
of the most lucrative businesses you can start in
2020. It requires a meager financial investment,
and it gives you room to scale and gradually grow
in size and influence. Moreover, since you are not
responsible for the shipping costs and
manufacturing, you can quickly calculate your
profit once a product is ordered from your site.
All you really need for this business is a website,

and today, you can set up an online store with little
to no money.
Why You Should Start A Dropshipping Business
There are several reasons why a dropshipping business is a great idea, particularly for
someone who is looking for a “side hustle”. Here are the major advantages of starting a
dropshipping business:
A. You only pay for products
Dropshipping eradicates the headache of creating your own products, maintaining

inventory, paying employees, packaging, and shipping products. That aspect of the work
will be handled entirely by the supplier. Your only job is to get customers and earn a
profit while at it.
B. Location flexibility
There are some businesses you cannot start without first securing an office space or
physical location. As we discussed earlier, with dropshipping, you can work anywhere
as long as you are connected to the internet and have your electronic devices with you
(laptop or mobile phone).

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C. A good way to venture into entrepreneurship
If you’ve never been a business owner, dropshipping is the easiest way to start. Other
than creating an online store (which you can easily set up on Shopify) and getting a good
supplier, there’s nothing left to worry about. With just a few clicks, your business is up
and running. Nonetheless, this doesn’t negate the fact that hard work is needed to scale
the business.
Can You Buy A Dropshipping Business?

The answer is yes. Rather than starting from scratch, you can easily find a dropshipping
business for sale on Exchange. Exchange is a marketplace for Shopify stores for both
people looking to invest in a fully functioning business and those who want to skip the
building phase and start directly with marketing.
On Exchange, you will find great collections of online stores and dropshipping e-
commerce businesses at different prices. There are different niches that will catch your
attention. Therefore, if you are looking for a dropshipping business to buy, Exchange is
the way to go. Of course, before buying a store on Exchange, you should consider the
design, cost, how long the website has existed, how much money it has made, how
popular its target niche is, and other relevant details.
Steps To Starting Dropshipping Business In Nigeria

In five simple steps, you will learn how to start a dropshipping business almost
immediately.
Step 1– Decide On The Products You Want To Sell
First and foremost, you need to figure out what products you want to dropship. It is very
important to research the types of niche in which to launch your business. It is
preferable to select a specific niche for which you want to be known.
For example, you can deal with electronic devices or even men’s clothing. By selecting a
specific niche, customers quickly learn to contact you when they need such products.
Just like every other business, it takes a lot of hard work to scale a dropshipping business.
Therefore, it is always advisable to select a product you are passionate about.

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Furthermore, make sure there is a market for the product and that you can make a profit
selling the product. You will also want to do some research on the quality and durability
of the products you want to dropship. Remember that you’ll not see the products before
they are delivered to your customers. Therefore, it is important to check the customer
reviews on any product you choose.
To select a niche, check out these platforms below:
A. Oberlo
Oberlo saves you time by creating a list of trending products you can invest in. Over time,
they have been able to identify winning products. Some of the top-selling products
identified by Oberlo are jewelry, fashion, fitness, beauty, tech, purses, and backpacks. On
Oberlo, you can check out the order volume for products to help you understand how
popular a product is.
B. Google Trends
Seeing as many people trust Google results for online searches, check out Google Trends
to find out if the niche you are interested in is on an upward or downward trend. Google
Trends, amongst other things, collects data on the internet searches people make and
displays the search volume and frequency of these searches with time. Using this tool,
you can find out what products people all over the world are searching for most and
how the trend changes seasonally.
C. Ubersuggest’s Free Keyword Tool
This tool, developed by Neil Patel, is a keyword finder tool that helps you identify the best
keywords to use on your website based on how often they are searched.
Step 2 – Research Your Competition
Once you’ve selected the niche or market you want to target, the next thing to do is to
research the competition. Find the people who are already in that niche. What is their
pricing strategy? How about their sales strategy?
There are several ways you can research your competitors:
A. In a Google search, enter the name of one of the products you want to sell and take
note of the brands that pop up in your location. You can also use SEM Rush or Ahref
to get information about search results in different locations across the world.

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B. Check social media for brands that are into your kind
of products. On Instagram, you can search using specific
hashtags. You can also browse Facebook and other social
media pages for top brands in your niche. Observe how
they market their products, how much engagement they
get, and what makes people patronise them.
C. Check Alexa or SimilarWeb to find niche competitors

that may not come up in general search results
Analysing your competitors will save you from making
unnecessary errors and teach you the right strategy to
employ.
Analysing your competitors will save you from making

unnecessary errors and teach you the right strategy to
employ.
Step 3 – Choose A Reliable Supplier For

Your Dropshipping Business
This is one of the most important decisions you will have to make in the dropshipping
business. The products come from the suppliers and you’ll need a good knowledge of the
supplier’s abilities. Find out if they are reliable so that they don’t stall your growth
process.
As we mentioned earlier in the chapter, one of the suppliers you can trust is AliExpress.
AliExpress makes it easy for you to spot a good seller. Before selecting a seller, check
their score and rating. Try as much as possible to avoid sellers below a 90% rating.
Most people involved in the dropshipping business in Nigeria import their products from
outside the country, particularly from China. This is because products made in China are
cheap and allow you to make a huge profit.
However, if you have a reliable seller in Nigeria, you can also kickstart your business
with them. Otherwise, Alibaba, AliExpress, or 1688.com are your best bet. Alibaba and
AliExpress deal in wholesales products but you can sometimes get those products at a
cheaper price on 1688.com.
After identifying a supplier, all you have to do is place your order through any
one of these websites, and they’ll handle the logistics within Nigeria.

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You must take note, however, that the shipping time with these platforms is usually long.
Ensure that the delivery time you give your customer is in sync with AliExpress’s time.
You can also find good suppliers on the Oberlo platform. There, you’ll see reviews,
ratings, and the length of time the supplier has been on the platform. Come up with a
long list of suppliers and clarify important details with them, such as minimum order
quantities and shipping times.
The best way to test the service of your supplier is to place an order from them yourself
and then contrast product quality, packaging, customer service, and other relevant
details.
Step 4 – Set Up Your Dropshipping Business Platform
There are several ways to set up your dropshipping business store.
A. Sign Up For Shopify
Shopify is one of the biggest e-commerce websites around. On Shopify, there are
features, themes, tools, and resources that make running your online business easy.
Shopify gives you the opportunity to build a website quickly and securely. Within 30
minutes, you can create an online store on Shopify and start advertising your products.
Additionally, with Shopify, you can focus on branding and marketing while they help
you manage your store and also give you access to their array of customers.
Shopify gives you a 14-day free trial before you pay for the subscription. This means that
it is possible to make a profit within the 14 days before subscribing.
B. Use WordPress
WordPress gives you the opportunity to create a website without knowing anything
about coding. As a matter of fact, you can open a free WordPress site to start. However,
the domain name will have a “wordpress.com” at the end. However, when you pay to
host the website using Bluehost, for example, this extension is removed, and you can go
ahead to choose your preferred domain name.
If you don’t want to use WordPress, you can create and design your own website or pay
a web designer to do it for you. You will still need to get a domain name, especially when
building a long-term brand. A “.com” domain is preferable because it has the impression
of being worldwide. Furthermore, ensure the domain name as a whole contains a
keyword that can be easily seen when searched.

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C. Install Oberlo
Oberlo dropshipping allows you to find products
INSTALL
online that you can sell the same day. It is
advisable to aim for 10-25 products when starting
out because it may be difficult to write out the
descriptions for more than that. Once you
identify your products, post them on your
website with strong descriptions and competitive
prices before moving on to the next stage. (Other
platforms that help you create an online store are
Jumia, Konga, Kaymu, and Dealdey.com.)
Step 5 – Promote Your

Dropshipping Business
Marketing is the lifeblood of any business and

without it, nobody can discover your online store.
Start by opening accounts on several social media

platforms. Social media allows you to run ads on
your products to draw your client’s attention.
Facebook and Instagram are great platforms to
start. Run paid ads targeting your customers.
Entrepreneurs.ng’s the DIY: A Practical Guide To
Running Instagram Ads provides detailed
information on how to do this.
Once the first customer buys something from your store, they will keep patronising you
if they are satisfied with their first purchase.
Another way to market your product is to reach out to people selling the products on a
small scale and offer to supply the products at a cheaper price since you’ll be ordering in
wholesale.
In addition, there are advertisement channels like:
• Word of mouth
• Referrals
• Google ads
• Content marketing

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• Email Marketing
• Collaborations
• Influencer marketing
• Retargeting ads.
Once you start marketing your products, you will discover that some marketing channels
are more successful than others and you can choose which to focus on and which to
spend less time and money on.
At this point, it’s interesting to note that some of the ideas we’ve discussed so far are
reminiscent of the mini-importation business we tackled in Chapter 3. Although mini-
importation and dropshipping are different businesses, there is some overlap in the way
products are sourced and advertised. It is always a great idea to apply the experience
you have gained from another business whenever it’s relevant.
Challenges Of the Dropshipping Business
A. Issue Of Payment Gateway
This is one of the major challenges for online businesses in Nigeria. However, this won’t
be a setback if you know the right way to go about it. There are two widely used
payment gateways in Nigeria that have proven to be trustworthy:
Paystack
Paystack is trusted by many businesses in Nigeria. Before you can use Paystack to
receive payments internationally, you’ll need to register your business with CAC and
create a corporate account with your business name. ReDahlia can easily handle this
aspect for you and then send the business certificate to any specified address.
Stripe
This is a widely used platform that permits you to receive payments from anywhere in
the world. However, you cannot use Stripe in Nigeria by default. Instead, you’ll have to
register your business in the US to use it.
Apart from these two, be on the look-out for other payment gateways that might work
best for your business.

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B. Shipping Costs
Another challenge you might face is the difference

in shipping costs from different suppliers.
However, with some good business sense, you can
diligently consider all your costs before setting
your price.
C. Unsatisfactory Deliveries
The fact that you cannot see the product before it

gets to your customer makes the dropshipping
business risky and dicey. If there’s any failure to
fulfill a customer’s exact orders, you will be held
responsible and possibly lose a customer forever.
To avoid this, make sure the product you are
advertising on your platform is tested and trusted.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Dropshipping

Business?
As previously mentioned, the dropshipping business is one that requires little capital. In
this section, we’ve outlined the first-time investments you can expect to make when
launching a brand-new dropshipping business.

2. Creating the Online Store:
• Shopify Account: a basic Shopify plan costs N11,625/month
• Host a WordPress Website with Bluehost + install the free WooCommerce plugin:
o N27,700 for 1 year
o N46,000 for 2 years
3. Paystack:
• Paystack is free to integrate with your online store. (Continued on next page)

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• For customers using cards issued by Nigerian banks, you are charged a transaction
fee of 1.5% and an additional N100 for payments over N2,500. The maximum
transaction fee you can be charged, however, is N2,500.
• For customers using cards from other parts of the world, you are charged a
transaction fee of 3.9% plus N100.
4. Online Advertisements: varies with duration, platform and size of target population.
Many make the mistake of not treating dropshipping as a real business. If you don’t treat
it as a full-fledged business, you may never get the best results possible. In essence, the
dropshipping business is a simple business model that many Nigerians are successfully
operating, and this chapter has provided you with all you need to join the club.

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CHAPTER 14: RICE FARMING

Did you know that rice farming is one of the more profitable businesses you can start
now? This is because rice, despite being the third-highest produced crop globally (after
sugarcane and maize), is also the most consumed staple food in the world, especially in
Asia and Africa. In Nigeria, about 7 million tonnes of rice is consumed in a year. However,
in spite of this consumption rate, only a tiny percentage of the rice we consume is
produced here in Nigeria.
That being said, there has been an uptick in rice production since the closure of land
borders by the Nigerian government for food security purposes. Moreover, the World
Bank, Central Bank, and other governmental bodies are beginning to boost the
agricultural industry by providing support to smallholder rice farmers in varying degrees.
As a result, the agribusiness narrative is changing and rice farming is becoming more and
more profitable for rice farmers.
Are you interested in joining the league of entrepreneurs who are creating a positive
economic impact by embracing rice farming? If your answer is “yes”, stick with us as we
outline how exactly you can start a promising rice farming business.

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Rice Farming
Rice farming like other kinds of agricultural business is capital intensive but lucrative. It
produces one of the highest yields when compared to other agricultural products. For
example, a well-cultivated hectare of land produces 2-3 tonnes of rice.
The farming process takes about four months between planting and harvesting. You will
need a large expanse of land, farming equipment, packaging materials, storage space,
labour, transportation, and so on, to start your rice farm.
Rice farming can be challenging in that it is often capital intensive and also demands a
large workforce. All the same, it’s still a very lucrative business for an aspiring
entrepreneur. To find out why, read on to our step-by-step guide on how to start a rice
farming business.
Step-By-Step Guide For Starting A Rice Farming

Business
Rice farming requires both adequate planning and a feasibility study. For this business, a
plan will serve as a guide on the steps to take to make your vision achievable. While
preparing your business plan, you will take into account important elements of the
business such as location of the farm, marketing, funding, and so on. Also, remember that
the business plan is a breathing document which can be updated at any time as your
business grows.
After creating a business plan, the next step is to register your business. In rice farming,
besides registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), you will need to
register with agencies like the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and
Control (NAFDAC), the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN), and other relevant
organisations in your region.
For the CAC registration, you can go directly to the CAC website and register your
business or hire firms like ReDahlia to smoothly handle that part of the registration for
you. ReDahlia is a solution center for the entrepreneur and is widely known for
providing business solutions to both new and seasoned business owners.
To complete the NAFDAC registration, visit the official website of NAFDAC to accomplish
the entire process.

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As we have pointed out, rice farming is capital

intensive and requires huge investments in human
resources and money. If you don’t have enough
funds to start this business, you can approach
investors or meet with partners who have the same
vision that you do.
Also, as part of the Nigerian government’s effort to

boost the food supply for her citizens, funding is
readily available for agricultural businesses.
Therefore, you can access government grants or
loans at low-interest rates from commercial or
microfinance banks. Entrepreneurs.ng provides
multiple guidelines and listings of grants available
to new entrepreneurs in agriculture and in other
sectors.
Beyond these money awards and grants, there are other avenues of support available to
business-owners in agriculture-focused businesses, such as tech support. To access these
opportunities, you will need a well-written business plan.
When you succeed in securing an adequate amount of funding for the business, you
have overcome one of the more difficult aspects of the process. The next thing is to get to
the actual farming.
Step 4 – Choose Quality Seeds
There are different varieties of rice seeds suited to various ecologies such as lowland,
upland, deep water, and mangrove swamp. Good rice seeds are resistant to disease and
yield much grain during harvest. Therefore, you need to choose seeds that are suitable
for the environment in which they will be grown.
Step 5 – Choose the Right Land
After selecting the seeds for cultivation, the next step is to choose a suitable land area.
Rice requires more water for its production compared to other grains. Therefore, it is
advisable to choose lands with water retention capacities, such as swampy-clay, or
loamy soil that contains organic matter.

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Rice can be grown in different environments as long as water is readily available.

However, it’s advisable to set up your farm in regions where rice is traditionally grown
such as Kebbi, Benue, Ekiti, Jigawa, Ogun, Kaduna, Kano, and other states known for rice
production in Nigeria.
Step 6 – Land Preparation
For rice farming, land preparation needs to be done to put the soil in the best condition
for the best yield. Land preparation involves ploughing and harrowing to till and level
the soil.
You can till manually with a hoe or mechanically with a tractor. This will allow the seeds
to be planted at the right depth and help with weed control. You should also level the
land as this helps the seedling become more firmly rooted and reduces erosion.
It’s best to prepare your land from November to February when the rainy season is over.
As the rainy season approaches, the land should be ready for planting. However, if your
land is in the savannah region, your land preparation can start in February.
Step 7 – Choose A Planting Method
After the land has been prepared, the next step is to plant the seed. This planting can be
done in two ways: through direct seeding or through the use of nursery and
subsequently transplanted.
Direct seeding involves broadcasting dry seeds or pre-germinated seeds by hand or by

machine. In rainfed and deep-water ecosystems, the dry rice seed is manually broadcast
unto the soil and incorporated by either ploughing or harrowing while the soil is still dry.
In irrigated areas, however, seeds are normally pre-germinated prior to broadcasting.
Note that with direct seeding, weeds can begin to affect the plant early on, but with the
use of herbicides, this can be controlled.
On the other hand, when rice seedlings are raised in the nursery, they are transferred
from seedbed to the wet field. This technique, popular across Asia, requires less seed and
is an effective way to control weeds. Seedlings can be transplanted by machine or by
hand.
Step 8 – Water Management
Rice is highly sensitive to water shortages and the process of water maintenance differs
from one ecological area to another.

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For the best possible yield, you need to maintain the water level in the field at least 5cm
one week after transplanting until the grain matures. Of course, be aware that improper
irrigation can expose your crops to disease.
Step 9 – Apply Fertilizer
There are different fertilizers that can be applied at different stages of plant growth. This
means that you might need to apply specific nutrients at different times. To ensure a
good harvest, be sure to carry out some research or to speak with a pedologist to learn
what organic fertilizer to use, as well as the right quantities and moments to use them.
However, note that high rates of nitrogen fertilizer application can expose rice plants to
disease.
Step 10 – Control Weed And Pest
Weeds, pests, and viruses are enemies to rice plants and can reduce the yield or value of
the crop. The sooner you begin to treat your plants and fight these elements, the better
for you.
Weeds can be managed through hand weeding or herbicide application. Pests like
termites, armyworms, insects, nematodes, rodents, birds, and pathogens can be managed
by using chemical controls. However, be careful not to overapply insecticides as this can
easily hurt your crops.
Step 11 – Harvest And Thresh
Depending on the seed variety, rice crops can be harvested after about 105 – 150 days of
planting. This is around the time when the plants are beginning to turn yellow or brown.
Harvesting involves cutting, stacking, and handling and can be done manually or
mechanically.
Manual harvesting involves cutting the rice crop with sickles and knives, while
mechanical harvesting involves using reapers to cut down the rice. Thereafter, you can
begin to thresh.
Threshing is usually done on a mat, and it involves separating the paddy grain from the
rest of the crop. This should be done either immediately or within a day or two after
harvesting.
Also, after harvesting, you can plant leguminous crops like beans, chickpeas, lentils, soya,
and so on on the farm.

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This will enrich the soil in nitrogen and organic matter and
help to maintain soil nutrients for another planting season.
Step 12 – Post-Production
After threshing, cleaning, and hauling, the next step is to

field dry the rice paddy and then mill. Rice paddy or paddy
are the rice grains that are still in their husks.
Before milling, paddy is dried to bring down the moisture

content to no more than 30%. You can manually dry paddy
by spreading them on a clean concrete floor, mat, or
tarpaulin, while they sun dry for 1-3 days manually. After
drying, you mill.
Milling is a crucial step in the post-production of rice. It is

done to remove the husk and the bran layers to produce an
edible white rice kernel. A good mill can achieve a paddy-to-
rice conversion rate of up to 72% but smaller, inefficient mills
often struggle to achieve 60%.
Also, the number of broken kernels should be minimised in the conversion process.
Step 13 – Marketing
If you successfully follow the steps listed up to this point, you will have rice grains ready
to sell with no worries. The next step is to package your rice for sale and consumption.
In packaging, ensure to have your logo, farm address, name, and other identification
numbers branded on the packaging sacks. It’s expected that during the business plan
stage, you have already identified your target market. It’s actually nice to have a ready
market or people ready to purchase your rice before starting the planting process.
To market your rice, create a website and social media pages where your farming
activities can be displayed and where distributors can make orders. Also, you can invest
in radio, television, and billboard adverts to create awareness.
Most importantly, if you produce quality rice, free of weevils and other kinds of pests,
customers will begin to come to you without any marketing effort on your part, and
greatly maximise your profit.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start A Rice Farming

Business?
So, how much money will you need to invest to complete all the steps we’ve listed so far?
Here is thorough breakdown of the costs:

2. RIFAN Member Registration –
• Production: N1,000
• Processing: N10,000
• Marketing: N5,000
• Packaging: N5,000
4. NAFDAC Registration Number (for packaged rice products) –
May 2020 has been subsidized by up to 80% due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out
businesses.
Planting Material
5. FARO Rice Seeds (1 bag): N1,000 – N3,500 (varies with seed variety. You might need
up to 50 bags per hectare, and the variety you need depends on climatic conditions and
whether you are farming upland or lowland).

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6. Waterproof Rubber Boots (to move about in swampy rice paddy): N3,500 – N5,000
N300,000
8. Hand -Pushed Planter: N8,000 – N45,000 (price varies with size)
9. Quality Hoe, Shovel and Cutlass: N1500 – N3,000 each.
11. NPK Fertilizers: N13,000 – N14,000/ 50 kg
Harvesting and Processing Equipment
12. New Hand-Pushed Rice Reapers: N388,000 – N1m

13. Rice Mill: N180,000 – N800,000 (varies with brand and processing capacity/hour)
14. Jute Sack (1): N400
15. Tarpaulin: N1000/square meter
16. Harvesters/Planters: N54,900/month or N25,000 part-time
17. Driver and truck rental to transport produce: N71,000/month
Others

19. Hosting a WordPress Website: Bluehost offers a basic plan for new websites:
20. Land: varies with size and location.
Just like every other agricultural business, rice farming is a profitable agribusiness to
venture into. Although it requires a lot of research as well as capital, rice farming is a
particularly fertile business in which to invest due to its local demand and very high
export potential.

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CHAPTER 15: CUSTOM DESIGN FURNITURE

BUSINESS
If you are looking for a business that has the potential to generate profit in little time, the
furniture business is one such business. We can realistically say that there is no home in
Nigeria without a single piece of furniture in it. This goes a long way to confirm that
furniture business is an essential industry in Nigeria, and by extension, the world. Looking
beyond homes to offices, churches, mosques, and other establishments in Nigeria, these
places cannot exist without furniture.
Though assembling great works of furniture requires many resources, the good news is
that you don’t need to learn furniture-making before you can start a furniture business.
Also, Nigerians are becoming more willing to try new things. It’s almost becoming a
competition to see who has the best furniture in their home, and more people are
searching out unique, luxury furniture, unlike before. Basically, the furniture business has
evolved beyond using cheap woods or inferior materials for production.
Nigerian furniture-makers have also woken up to these new realities and are equipping
themselves accordingly. They are learning how to make custom-design furniture that
attains and surpasses international standards.

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As a result, there are several companies in Nigeria involved in custom furniture-making,

and you will need a good market penetration strategy to thrive. Nevertheless, there’s
always room for any businessperson who knows their onion.
So, what does it take to start this business in Nigeria and how can you begin? These
questions and more are what this chapter provides answers to.
How To Start A Furniture-making Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Define Your Niche
First of all, you need to identify the niche on which you want to focus and become
known for. It includes the type of materials you want to use, such as metal, upholstery or
the regular wood.
It’s also imperative to identify your target audience. Do you want to focus on residential,
office, or resort furniture? If you have the capital and required resources, you can invest
in all of them.
Also, selecting a niche involves deciding if you’ll only be serving your local market or
both the local and international markets. This process will help you streamline your goals
and objectives before starting out.
Before finally deciding on a niche, do a proper market analysis of the most in-demand
furniture, and choose appropriately. Study your competitors to find out what they lack
and include them in your designs. Furthermore, the furniture business keeps evolving,
and there’s always a demand to move with the trend. Hence, ensure your decision is
flexible so you can switch if the need arises.
After selecting your niche, choose the type of furniture business you want to explore.
There are two types of the furniture business in Nigeria:
A. Furniture Manufacturing
This type of furniture business requires that you make the furniture yourself and sell
directly to your customers. If you don’t know how to make the furniture, you can hire an
expert to make the furniture while you handle the marketing and sales.
In this type of furniture business, you purchase the materials yourself and have it
delivered to your workshop. Also, your employees come up with several custom designs
based on client requests. Alternatively, you can make different custom designs and then
advertise your products to your target market.

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This business model is better because it

maximises profit. Furthermore, your creativity
will not be stifled as you can always construct
any design that comes to mind as well any that is
requested.
B. Buying And Selling Of Furniture
Here is another type of furniture business. Unlike

the first one, this type involves buying furniture
from a manufacturer and reselling for a profit.
This type does not require as much capital to
begin and it’s a good way to start the business.
Basically, you can purchase from a local
manufacturer or company in Nigeria and resell it
to your customers. You can also import the
furniture from neighbouring countries or from
countries overseas and resell it to your customers.
A good way to begin this type of furniture business is to open an online store and several
social media handles, taking pictures of the furniture and sharing these on your pages.
Once a customer shows interest in a piece of furniture, bargain a good price with them,
then place an order for the furniture and make a profit.
After selecting a niche, the next thing is to draft out your business plan. Basically, a
business plan contains the long-term goals and objectives of your business and how you
intend to achieve them. We cannot overstate the power of a compelling business plan.
Besides the fact that a good business plan can help you secure funding, a good business
plan helps to stay focused on your long-term goals.
You might asking, "What if I cannot write a business plan by myself?" Well, many
aspiring entrepreneurs find it intimidating to draft a business plan from scratch.
However, it is a task that can be overcome with some research and determination.
Nonetheless, firms like ReDahlia offer business consulting services to entrepreneurs and
can draft a comprehensive business plan to the profit of your business.

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These are the basic aspects you should address in your business plan:
1. Overview of your furniture business

4. SWOT analysis
5. Market research
6. Strategy
7. The Team
8. Marketing plan
9. Operational plan
10. Financial projections
11. Appendix
You can also study a relevant business plan online and use it as a guide to write yours.
Step 3 – Learn How To Make Custom Design Furniture
If you want to start making furniture by yourself and you don’t have any training as a
furniture-maker, you will have to learn.
Normally, there are local furniture-makers in Nigeria from whom you can learn. It will
also interest you to know that some people actually learn furniture making online just by
watching YouTube videos and putting in the time and practice.
Another way to learn is to attend a furniture making school anywhere in Nigeria. Once
you start learning, you will obviously have to purchase your own equipment before you
can start practicing. The prices of these equipment vary due to quality. For starters, here
are the major tools you’ll need to purchase:
• Circular Saw
• Hand Saw
• Tape Measure
• Jigsaw
• Power Drill
• Chisels
• Nails
• Hammer
• Marker or Pencil
• Smooth
• Bar (continues on next page)

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• Pinches
• Jack Plane
• Spoke Shave
• Screw Driver
The learning period is different for different people and depends on who you are
learning from. In general, it takes between a year or two to develop expertise in the art
of furniture-making.
Step 4 – Register Your Furniture Business With CAC
As we have learned so far, no structured business can exist without registration. In

Nigeria, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the recognised body in charge of
business registration. You cannot run a structured business in Nigeria without having
your business name on the CAC portal. So, what do you need to get your furniture
business registered with CAC?
First, pick a name that best describe your business and head to CAC’s website to search if
the name has not been registered by another person. If the name is available, reserve it.
Next, provide the required information and begin the registration process proper. Some
of the required information are your name, residential and office address, phone
number, and email address. The information depends on the type of registration you are
going for. You can either register as a business name or a limited liability company (LLC).
You can also get an expert to help you out. One of the firms Nigerians trust for business
registration is ReDahlia, located at 43B, Emina Crescent Off Toyin Street, Ikeja Lagos.
Step 5 – Get A Workshop And Showroom
The next step is to either rent or acquire a space where you will do the manufacturing.
Preferably, get a space close to your showroom for easy movement of finished furniture.
Alternatively, you can get a bigger space that can occupy both your workshop and
showroom. Basically, a showroom is a space where you showcase your furniture for
prospective customers to see.
It is also advisable to get a space close to a busy road so that whoever passes by can see
your work. As a matter of fact, you cannot afford to open your showroom in a remote
area because the purpose of the showroom will be defeated.
Additionally, if you plan to import furniture from abroad only, you will just need a
showroom since you are only dealing with ready-made furniture.

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Step 6 – Hire Competent Furniture-

makers
The necessity of this step depends on the type and size of

your furniture business. If you don’t have any furniture-
making skills, you will definitely need to hire skilled
furniture-makers.
On the other hand, if you are a furniture-maker yourself,

you can start alone and as your business grows, begin to hire
competent furniture-makers to work with you. Obviously,
you need to put different beautiful designs in your
showroom, and you need skilled furniture-makers to join
you as you grow.
Step 7 – Brand Your Furniture
Today, many furniture-makers add their company name and

phone number to their furniture. By doing this, they
differentiate their brand from others and make it easy for
potential customers who like their work to identify and contact them. Usually, the
branding is done with gold ink and stamped where people can easily find it.
Step 8 – Market Your Furniture
It’s very likely that you will not be the first furniture business in your area. Therefore,
you need to find something extra that will make you stand out from the rest. Find a
unique spot in the market and penetrate it.
Also, devise a good marketing strategy that will make your target market sit up and take
notice of your work. There are several ways to market your furniture to attract your
target customers. Here are some of the ways:
A. Connect With Different Establishments
Organisations, hotels, government parastatals, churches, schools, and mosques are good
places to start. Design a brochure that contains your designs, then distribute it across
these establishments. However, don’t just drop off your brochure with these
establishments and leave.

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The best thing to do is to actually speak with someone when you visit these places and
follow up with them.
Furthermore, if any of your friends or family member works in a reputable organisation,

ask them to introduce you to their bosses because recommendations are highly effective
.
B. Attend Big Events And Network
If you want to grow fast in your business, it is usually good, to begin with people who
can actually pay for your furniture and make purchases in larger quantities.
When you attend such events, don’t be afraid to talk to people about your business, hand
them your business card and receive theirs as well.
In the furniture business, your customers cut across different socio-economic strata. You
will deal with low, middle, and high-class people. Thus, devise a means to connect with
them all.
On the other hand, if you only provide luxury furniture, your target audience should be
wealthier people.
C. Take Advantage Of The Internet And Social Media
Social media has become a world of its own. Most of your customers are on either one or
two of the social media platforms. Hence, you need to put yourself out there for them to
see.
On social media, you need to be both social and business-driven. You can begin with
Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, and YouTube.
Another way to take advantage of the internet is to create a website for your furniture
business. With WordPress or Wix.com, you can get your website running in no time.
On your website, upload your designs with their prices, and don’t also forget to include
your contact information so that whoever visits can reach out to you from there. You can
also run a Google ad that directs people to your website.
D. Sell Your Furniture On Jumia, Konga, Etsy, and Jiji
Create an online store on these platforms. You will have access to their wide range of
audiences, and they collect a percentage of the fee for providing the platform. Besides,
there is a lot of competition, so you have to price your furniture competitively.

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Many businesses sell their products only on these

platforms and make millions of Naira monthly.
Take advantage of every opportunity to get
paying customers.
E. Partner With Other Furniture-

Making Businesses
It is obviously a good idea, for networking

purposes, to connect with people who are
already in the industry. This is especially
important if you plan to be buying from
established brands to resell.
Additionally, other furniture companies can

direct their customers to you when you have
what the customers need, and they don’t. In fact,
collaboration is the new competition. You could
partner with these brands to push your furniture
business.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Custom Furniture-

Making Business?
From our discussion up to this point, it’s probably evident just how capital-intensive a
custom furniture making business can be. Nonetheless, below, we’ve provided a
breakdown of the start-up costs of the business, assuming you intend to become a
furniture-maker yourself. If you intend instead of importing furniture to sell in your
community, the costs will vary wildly depending on what you are importing.

2. Workshop or Showroom: Varies with size and location.
3. Timber: N850 (per piece of 2 x 6 x 12 feet)
4. Hiring a Furniture Maker: N70,000 – N90,000/month

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7. Cost of training:
• N40,000 – N60,000
• YouTube (free)
8. Tools
• Circular Saw: N15,000 – N100,000 (varies with brand and size)
• Tape Measure: N1,000
• Jigsaw: N17,000 – N100,000 (varies with brand and size)
• Power Drill: at least N11,000 (This price is for a handheld, light-weight Bosch drill
with a 10mm diameter.)
• Chisel: N3,000
• A bag of 2.5 to 3.5-inch nails: N6,000 – N6,500
• Hammer: N2,000
• Marker or Pencil: N300 – N1,000
• Safety Glasses: N700 – N1,000
• Rough Grit Sandpaper: N1,300 (for 5 square-meter)
• Orbital or belt sanding machine: N30,000 – N40,000
• Heavy-Duty Clamp: N3,000
• Spoke Shave: N2,000 – N3,000
• Screwdriver: N1,500
In essence, with 2-3 million Naira in place, you should be able to get your furniture
business up and running from scratch!
The furniture business in Nigeria has come a long way and it keeps evolving. Therefore,
regardless of how you start, try to grow with the trends in order to avoid becoming
outdated or become complacent in your business.

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CHAPTER 16: FASHION BUSINESS
The fashion business is the business of designing, manufacturing, marketing, and selling
different kinds of items for style, art, and beautification purposes. It is one of the
trending businesses in the world and a much patronised business venture.
More and more people are using their style to display their personality to the world.
Across Africa, business moguls are beginning to take a keener interest in the potentially
billion-dollar industry that is the fashion world. This taste for fashion has resulted in a
sharp increase in the number of fashion e-stores and fashion apparel shops in several
countries across the world.
The fashion industry is also an area that accommodates youth, adults, and people of all
genders as long they can bring their imagination to life. Everything revolves around
creativity, efficiency, uniqueness, and gives no room for complacency.
Moreover, fashion is a business in which profit margins are flexible all-year-round. This
is a large part of the reason why this industry is a profitable area to venture into. In this
chapter, we will provide you with a guide on everything you need to start a fashion
business in Nigeria, Africa, or anywhere else in the world.

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The Fashion Industry

The fashion industry is a very competitive industry and also a complex one. Nonetheless,
it is a sector in which you can begin to thrive within a few months of establishment as
long as you have an entrepreneurial spirit.
Fashion is a large industry that can be built upon a wide range of business models. For
instance, you can venture into fabric production, fashion designing, owning a clothing
line, marketing or fashion retail, and even cloth modification. All of these require skillset
and forward-thinking.
Although most fashion business-owners are professional designers, knowing how to

design clothes or shoes or jewelry is not a prerequisite. As long as you have an
understanding of the industry from a business point of view, you can also venture into
the fashion business.
Types of Fashion Businesses

As earlier mentioned, there are several areas of interest for someone looking to start a
career in the fashion industry. Let’s take a look at some of these business areas below:
A. Fashion Retail
This is a popular area in the fashion business. Fashion retail includes setting up
boutiques, department stores, and online sales companies. These shops act as an
intermediary between the manufacturers and customers. That is, in fashion retail the
business-owner buys fashion items from the manufacturer and sells to customers.
Once the clothes have been designed and manufactured, the fashion retailer makes a
purchase in bulk and then sells it in bits. Fashion retailers approach different
manufacturing companies to get different designs of apparel and display them in
showrooms to attract customers.
This is because most manufacturing companies do not sell their own products directly to
end-users. Instead, they sell to distributors and fashion retailers, who then sell to the end-
users.
B. Fashion Design Business

Fashion design is one of the most popular and most-patronized areas of the fashion
business. Fashion design involves creating shoes, graphics, or clothing to appeal to a
target market.

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It requires a high enough level of creativity

so that customers’ imaginations are made
alive. Fashion design is cheaper to start and
has the potential of generating profit within
2-3 months of establishment. It involves
cutting, sewing, weaving, ironing, and
turning fabrics into dress or attire. To be a
fashion designer, it is useful to get hands-on
training from fashion institutions or from
other established brands.
C. Fashion Import/Export Business

This is the importation and exportation of
fashion goods. Fashion importers and
exporters do not sell directly to end-users.
Instead, they sell in bulk to retailers.
They manufacture items and export to other
countries or import from other countries
and sell them in large quantities to local
buyers.
It’s a capital-intensive business area and mostly done by individuals who can afford to
pump millions of naira into the business.
D. Manufacturing
This involves manufacturing textiles, shoes, clothing, and other fashion accessories. This
business area can also be explored by fashion designers or fabric producers who then
promote their clothing to distributors, fashion retailers, media, and other customers.
E. Cosmetics
This includes the production of makeup, perfumes, and other kinds of beauty products.
F. Fashion Media
This is the use of media such as blogs and magazines to promote fashionable items.

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G. Fashion Institute
A fashion institute is a place where budding fashion designers are taught and trained in
the techniques and strategies of the fashion industry. Courses are always a combination
of theoretical and practical training.
Of these seven fashion business areas we have mentioned so far, we will provide a step-
by-step guide on how to launch a fashion designing business in particular.
How To Start A Fashion (Clothing) Designing Business
Step 1 – Identify A Need In The Market
The first step in starting a fashion business is to identify what the market needs. So, think
about a niche you are passionate about. This niche can be making wedding dresses,
office shirts, trousers, uniforms, baby clothes, and so on.
Choosing a niche will help you tailor your adverts and market your products better to
your audience. Also, it will help in the advancement of the business and in building a
brand identity that is unique and different from other existing brands.
Step 2 – Get Trained
In the fashion design business, training is required if design is not already your forte.
Getting training will provide you with adequate knowledge on how to turn fabrics into a
fitted dress. If you are not trained, you can sign up with a fashion institute for 6 months
to a year. It’s important for business owners to understand the core of their business. This
is why training is important.
If you are planning on building a clothing line and scaling fast, you cannot make all the
clothes yourself. Therefore, you need to find a clothing manufacturer. This might be
employing people who can help you make the clothes or sourcing merchandise from a
contracted manufacturer who will produce exactly according to your specifications.
You likely saw this step coming! Once you are done with your training and sourcing for
manufacturers, the next thing is to draft a business plan. A business plan serves as a
guide for every business journey.

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In order to write a comprehensive business plan, you need to conduct a feasibility study,
identify your target market and audience, know strengths and weaknesses of your
competition and come up with a strategy to stand out and win.
Of course, to run a business that can exist independently, you need to register the
business. Register with the authorised Nigerian agency, Corporate Affairs Commission
(CAC) as a sole proprietor, Limited Liability Company depending on the ownership
structure.
The registered name for your business should ideally match the name of your fashion
brand. This is a fantastic way to increase brand awareness once you start releasing
products from your fashion house.
Step 5 – Get Capital
The cost of setting up a standard fashion design business varies according to the scale at
which you want to operate. If you start your business from home, you don’t need to
bother with the costs of renting a workshop or showroom. Your only concern is with the
equipment and materials you need to produce fashion items.
However, if you want to set up a factory and work with others, you will need to spend
money on a shop, furniture, equipment, salaries, and so on. Therefore, the cost of starting
a fashion business can range anywhere from thousands to millions of naira.
If you do not have the capital to start, there are different ways by which you can seek
funding. Our online publication, Entrepreneurs.ng, has published several guides on how
to secure funding and several lists of grants and loans available to Nigerian business
owners. Check out some of these articles for the greater picture. Additionally, the option
of crowdfunding, whereby you get different people to invest in your business is also
viable.
Step 6 – Secure A Location
This step is necessary only for fashion designers who intend to operate at a medium to
large scale right away. The next thing is to look for a location suitable for the business.
Just like in every business, location matters. The location of your fashion house or
showroom has positive or adverse effects on the turn out of the business. Since you are
just starting out, it is best to settle on a location that gives you access to customers with
little to no competition.

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Depending on the standard you are creating, you can rent a

2-3 bedroom flat and furnish it to suit modern tastes. The
open area can be for sewing machines where your
employees and trainees work while the other rooms can be
for fabric cutting where you have a centre table big enough
to cut different fabrics at a time. Also, if possible, you could
create another room for embroidery and industrial
machines along with a fitting room in a corner.
Just as we mentioned previously, you can also launch a

successful fashion designing business from your home with
just a sewing machine, tape rule, scissors, and other basic
equipment. Then, as time goes on, you expand and create
your own fashion store outside your residence.
Step 7 – Buy the Equipment
Starting a fashion design business requires the following

equipment:
• Sewing machine: for sewing cloth. This can be
industrial or manual.
• Embroidery machine: to make embroider designs on
fabric.
• Weaving machine: this is a finishing machine used
to make the sewing work neater.
• Scissors: to cut fabric after the outlines have been
chalked out.
• Iron: for straightening of clothes in between sewing
and at the end.
• Generator: to supply power in case of power failure.
• Measuring tape: to outline the proportions of the
customer or model before sewing.
• Sewing machine needles: there are two kinds of
needle, the hand sewing, and the machine needles.
• Thread
• Sketching Books: to sketch out designs.
• Seats: To sit while operating the machine.
• Pencils/ Chalk: for sketching on fabric and in books.

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Step 8 – Hire The Staff
Depending on the standard you are trying to create, you might want to employ capable
hands like designers, cleaners, and so on. Decide whether to start small with few hands
or to start big and employ more hands. Remember, it’s better to build up and scale up
than to scale down.
Step 9 – Design And Sew
Now is your time to creatively shine. Bear in mind, however, that it’s not really about
what you want but what your customers want. Make sure you are designing something
that your customers want and you can be proud of simultaneously. Artistic creativity can
be difficult but is also extremely rewarding.
Additionally, you have to be practical. Your designs should be such that can be produced
in a cost-effective way so you can make a profit. You can sketch out the ideas on paper,
then trim out the entire design on paper to see if it works in order to avoid wasting
fabric. Also, offer the best customer service and meet deadlines.
Step 10 – Market Your Designs
In addition to creativity, time management is the selling point of every fashion business.
You can’t afford to always disappoint customers when it comes to dressmaking, as this
can have a negative effect on the business. It is important to deliver what you promised
on time.
Being a reliable designer means that customers are more likely to refer your services to
their friends, family, and colleagues. This is an important aspect of marketing.
In general, marketing will involve the promotion of your designs in print and electronic
media. This is to build brand recognition and reputation for the business.
You can advertise by creating a fashion ovation in which you feature customers wearing
your designs. Another option is to establish a fashion blog where you talk about fashion
and everything related to the fashion industry in your niche. The blog could be part of a
larger website and should link to social media pages created for your business.
Check out Entrepreneur.ng’s DIY article on social media marketing. ReDahlia can also
provide one-on-one business consulting to help you develop the best marketing strategy.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start

Your Fashion (Clothing)
Designing Business?
As usual, in this section, we offer you a well-
researched and detailed break-down of the costs
you can expect to incur when first launching
your business. Here are the financial investments
you will likely need to make:
Registration

ReDahlia
Equipment and Tool

Requirements
2. Sewing Machine:
• Manual Sewing Machine: N32,000 –

N90,000. The price varies with brand, size,
number of stitch options (e.g. straight stitch,
zigzag stitch, buttonhole stitch, blind-hem
stitch, etc.), attachments and features.
• Automatic Sewing Machine: N50,000 –
N60,000. The price varies with brand and
power capacity.
3. Embroidery Machine: N90,000 – N2.5m. This price varies with brand, size, and
embroidery capacity.
4. Weaving Machine:
• Brand New Weaving Machine: N30,000 – N100,000 (varies with brand and locking
capacity)
• Fairly Used Weaving Machine: N12,000 – N65,000
5. Scissors: N200 – N500

6. Pressing Iron: N2,500 – N8,000

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7. Generator: N25,000 – N198,000. The price varies with kVA or Volt – Ampere.
8. 120-inch Measuring Tape: N2,200
9. Sewing Machine Needles: N40,000 for 1000 needles
10. Sewing Thread: N1,200 - typical polyester thread (1 roll weighing 10 kg)
11. Sketch Pad: N3,000 for A3 sketch pad with 24 sheets.
12. Pencils/ Chalk:
• Pencils: N1,800 (for 20 HB pencils with erasers)

• Chalk: N6,500 (for a carton of 50 pieces)
Showroom and Personnel
13. Fashion House Space: varies with size and region.

14. Staff: N65,000 – N115,000/month to hire a tailor (salary varies with experience)
Other Requirements

• N8,300 for 100 A4 brochures
15. Hosting a free WordPress Website: Bluehost offers a basic plan for new websites:

Like most businesses, a successful fashion business requires tenacity, creativity, and
dedication to take your brand to greater heights. Your business sustainability and profits
will depend on the number of clothes you can make in a day and your ability to satisfy
your customers.

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CHAPTER 17: DAY-CARE CENTRE BUSINESS
As the years go by, fewer and fewer women are remaining as full-time housewives.
Several societies are becoming more self-aware about gender discrimination, and more
women are being raised to value both a fulfilling career and family, instead of only the
latter.
When you also recall that most Nigerian households require more than one source of
income to remain afloat, it’s not surprising that most women are venturing into the
workforce. As a result, more parents are taking their children to day-care centres while
they go about their white-collar jobs or businesses.
A day-care centre is actually one that you can start from the comfort of your home
without much start-up costs. Do you have a natural passion for taking care of children
or are you interested in owning a day-care business? If yes, in this chapter, we’ll go
through all the steps you need to take to start and operate a successful day-care centre.

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Day-Care Centre Defined

As the name implies, a day-care centre, also known as creche or child-care, is a centre
that provides supervision and care to infants, toddlers, and young children during the
day. Children taken to a day-care centre are usually between the age of 1 and 6 years.
Most times, parents drop their children in the morning and pick them up later in the
evening on their way back from work. In this way, a day-care is different from
babysitting because babysitting requires that a child be cared for in the parent’s home.
Why You Should Start A Day-care Business

Nigeria is becoming more of an urban nation and babysitting your children every day
might make one miss out on the several opportunities out there. Hence, the demand for
day-care services is increasing by the day, and by all indications, will continue to
increase.
If you are a stay-at-home mother or father yourself, running a day-care centre will give
you the opportunity to take care of your children and still make money taking care of
other children. Apart from the profits, spending most of your work time with children
can help you appreciate the simpler things in life, like health and friendships, instead of
having to constantly deal with office politics.
Things To Note Before Starting A Day-care Centre

You need to prepare for mishaps and emergencies that come with working with kids. It
is advisable to get a first aid box and to learn all there is to know about childcare before
starting the business. In addition, it is better to have a partnership arrangement with a
nearby hospital in case of any emergency.
Parents want the best for their children and will thoroughly verify if your day-care
centre is the best for their children. Therefore, you need a degree in education or proven
experience working with an established day-care centre as well as with young children.
Furthermore, you will need a good dose of patience to work with children. Therefore, if
you are the impatient type, know that this business is not for you. Consider other
businesses we have discussed in this book!

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Steps To Start A Day-care

Centre In Nigeria
REGISTRATION
You might be asking, but why do I need a

business plan for a day-care business? The
answer is that it’s really not as far-fetched as it
sounds. Every business requires a blueprint that
will guide its operation – even a day-care centre.
In addition, you need to identify the type of day-

care centre you are starting and create the
appropriate plan around it. The various types of
day-care centres include Montessori day-care,
Religious day-care, At-work day-care, and so on.
Typically, a business plan is a detailed document containing the short-term and long-
term objectives of your new business and how you intend to achieve them.
Step 2 – Register Your Day-care Centre With CAC
As usual, we advise all entrepreneurs to follow this step. Registering your business name
with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is important to verify that you won’t be
building your day-care on someone else’s business name.
Step 3 – Gather The Relevant Licenses And Permits
Visit the nearest local government around your chosen business area to get the relevant
licenses and permits needed to run a day-care centre. The Ministry of Women Affairs is
responsible for certifying a creche. After a year of inspection by a representative of the
Women Affairs Commission, a certificate will be given to the creche owner.
Step 4 – Get A Space For Your Day-care Centre
The next step is to choose a suitable location for your business. If you are starting from
home, ensure that your home is spacious enough to accommodate the kids you want to
admit.

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Also, it’s important that you have a playground or yard for the children to walk around
and have fun. In addition, make sure that your residence is fenced and secure so that the
children don’t leave the compound without your knowledge.
If you are getting a commercial space outside your home, make sure the space is large
enough and the environment is safe, clean, and accessible. The space should be equipped
with relevant facilities such as beds, toys, toilets, a kitchen, bathrooms, blankets, and a
television set amongst others.
When setting up your space, put extra effort into your interior decorations. In a nutshell,
create an atmosphere that will both entice and comfort both parents and children. If a
parent is satisfied with your space, they’ll recommend others.
Step 5 – Employ Competent Staff
This is about one of the most important decisions you’ll take in your day-care centre
business. The truth is that not everybody can work at a day-care. An individual who has
a natural love and passion for children will be a huge asset to your business. In addition,
a day-care employee must be accommodating, hospitable, empathetic, and patient.
More than that, you need to communicate the vision of the business to your staff and
ensure that they buy into it. This way, you will all be contributing to the business with
comparable levels of passion. Hire people with an educational or teaching background.
Nonetheless, even with their degree, you will have to train them in your business culture.
Step 6 – Develop A Curriculum
The goal of a day-care centre is not only to care for children while their parents are
away. Another purpose of day-care is to instill good values in the children. These include
emotional, moral, and educational values. Therefore, a comprehensive curriculum and
an associated set of guidelines are required.
If parents cannot see any development in the mental, emotional, or learning

advancement of their child, they will assume that they are wasting their money and
withdraw their children from your day-care centre. And of course, they will never
recommend you to their friends, families or colleagues. To protect the reputation of your
business, and to do right by the children in your care, engage the children in activities
that will help them learn new things about the world and themselves.
One way to help kids develop mentally is to teach them new things and equip them with
tools to memorise.

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This can be done with rhymes and songs about alphabets and numbers, as well as
puzzles and games.
More than that, try and create a happy environment so that the child returns home
happy every day. When a parent notices that their child looks forward to attending your
day-care centre, you’ll be more likely to retain them as clients until the child begins
regular school.
Step 7 – Market Your Day-Care Business
Every business needs strategic marketing to be successful. Therefore, this is the point
where you introduce your business to your target audience. Your primary customers are
parents living or working close to your day-care centre.
One of the ways to attract them is to print a big flex banner and hang it outside your
centre so that whoever passes by can see it. Also, print flyers and distribute them in
residential areas and at offices, restaurants, and hotels around your day-care. Other
ways to advertise your day-care centre include word of mouth, referral, and taking
advantage of social media platforms.
How Much Will It Cost To Set-Up A Day-Care Centre?

Assuming that you will be starting your day-care from your home, here are the
investments you will most likely need to make:
Registration
Daycare Material and Personnel
2. Toys: You can get a good variety of crayons, colourful decorations, drawing paper,
stuffed animals, puzzles, and so on for N70,000 and up.
3. Children Table and Chairs Set: from N17,000 for a 2-chair set.
4. Blankets and throws: from N2,500 a piece
5. Bed Frame for Toddler: from N15,000 for one
6. Toddler Mattress: N15,000 – N20,000 for one
7. Toddler Pillow: from N3,500 for one
8. Television Set: N30,000 – N40,000 for 32-inch flat screen.
9. Staff: from N90,000/month for a trained child-care worker.

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Other Requirements

11. Host a free WordPress Website for your Day-Care: Bluehost offers a basic plan for
new websites:
Other costs involved in running a day-care include food, drink, first aid supplies and fire
emergency control.
The day-care centre business is both exciting and financially rewarding. With
background knowledge and training in the business, start-up capital and a love for
children, you are good to go! If after reading through this chapter, you feel that this is
the best business idea for you, then the best time to start is now.

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CHAPTER 18: ADVERTISING AGENCY BUSINESS

Running an advertising agency is one of the most glamorous businesses in Nigeria. It is
also a fierce and competitive industry in which success is dependent upon your ability
to deliver results to clients.
Advertising is one of the best ways to make more sales. It helps brands create
awareness and exposes their products and services to the appropriate audience.
In spite of the economic downturn, many companies still spend a lot of money to market
their businesses and are actively looking for new ways to advertise. As a result,
advertising experts are employed to deploy ad creatives that can have a strong and
positive impact on prospective clients thereby maximising profit.
An advertising agency is made up of advertising experts and it is mainly involved with

developing innovative ways to make the public conscious of a product. To achieve this
goal, advertising agencies use different means to communicate a brand’s offerings.
These include text, visuals, or videos.
If you are creative, energetic, and have an interest in marketing or advertising, then
starting an advertising agency could be the best business for you.

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Advertising Agency
An advertising agency creates, plans, handles, and implements commercial messages or
advertising campaigns for clients. It’s a professional service firm often called a creative
agency or an ad agency. These agencies offer services related to advertising, marketing,
branding, and promotional services.
An ad agency may be an internal department of a company or an external, independent

body that provides a third-party perspective on how to market the clients’ products or
services.
Ad agencies can be hired to create advertising campaigns and to deploy the copies to
television, radio, internet, social media, newspapers, periodicals, and other media
platforms. Basically, they act as agents for the media, deal in copywriting, graphic
design, and create digital art. Also, agencies provide other services, such as merchandise
advice, account management, production of advertising material, media planning and
buying, advertising placement, and so on.
You can start an advertising agency anywhere and can begin with as little capital as
possible.
Types Of Advertising Agencies

There are several kinds of ad agencies based on the types of services they offer.
A. Full-Service Agency
This is an agency that conducts a complete advertising campaign from the beginning to
the end. A full-service agency is the main agency and might be assisted by several
subsidiaries who engage in various related activities.
This agency does market research, sales promotion, content creation, lead nurturing,
advertising, public relation, media buying, film production, and so on. It is capable of
handling all advertising activities from beginning to end. It also has different experts in
different departments.
B. Interactive Agency
An interactive agency produces interactive ads. It uses online advertisement platforms

and sends personal messages through mobile phones. Basically, it engages modern
modes of communication to deploying ad campaigns.

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C. Creative Boutique
This group creates only actual ads. It is usually

a small-sized agency with each of the teams
having a single responsibility. Creative
boutiques focus on the design and graphics of
a brand but outsource the strategy and
execution to other marketing partners.
D. Media-Buying Agency
Just as the name implies, media-buying

agencies buy space and sell to advertisers.
They focus on media planning and media
buying. Also, they schedule slots at different
television channels and radio stations and
supervise if the ads are telecast at the
appropriate time.
E. In-House Agency
These are ad agencies that work within an organisation. They are built/based within an
organisation and work as per the requirements of their company. In-house agencies
work only for the company.
F. Specialised Agency
Specialised agencies work for some special advertisements. They work with people in
specific fields such as tech, medicine, finance, engineering, business, etc.
How To Start An Advertising Agency
Step 1 – Planning
Planning is an important aspect of every business. At this stage, you decide on the kind
of niche you want to service. Before choosing a niche, it’s assumed that you already have
a background in marketing, either through working in a creative agency or through
studying communications. Also, in addition to creative knowledge, you also need
business knowledge of how the business is run.

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In planning, you will decide on the type of clients you intend to serve. Factor in start-up
costs, the location of your clientele, and possible ways of attracting clients. Attend
seminars and conferences related to advertising and see what the competition is like.
After gathering this information, the next step is to swing into action.
Create A Detailed Business Plan
Creating a business plan is like setting a foundation for your agency. A business plan is a
document that states the vision, mission, aims, and objectives of the business.
A business plan will state the business niche, organisational structure, market strategy,
pricing, product, financial projection, and the total operational plan of the business. A
well-thought-out business plan can be a good call to action for the members of the team
especially in the absence of the founder. Also, as we have learned so far, a business plan
makes it easier to pitch your business ideas to investors for financial support.
Brand name matters a lot in the advertising business. Apart from giving the business its
identity, the brand name communicates your value to customers. At this stage, it is
important to create a brand name that makes it easy for people to identify the products
and services your company is providing. The name should be memorable, and attractive.
As soon as you have 2-3 unique brand name options, proceed to register with the
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). You can log on to the official website of CAC to
begin the process or contact a resource centre for entrepreneurs like ReDahlia.
Step 3 – Acquire Start-up Capital
Capital is important for the success of any business. And raising capital can be a
herculean task. This is where a business plan comes in. A detailed business plan will
increase your chances of securing funds.
First, visit your local bank or online lending platforms and propose your business to the
loan officer, explaining the amount you need and the purpose of the loan. Also, you can
seek help from friends and family. Loved ones can provide interest-free loans or even
fund your business as a gift.
Another option is to approach venture capitalists. Venture capitalists invest in companies

in exchange for equity. If you are willing to give away a portion of your business, this is a
good bait.

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Other means to raise funding for your business can be through angel investors,
crowdfunding, personal savings, or strategic partners. Check out Entrepreneur.ng’s
article on mistakes to avoid when seeking funding for your start-up. It offers
perspectives you might not have considered!
In every business, location matters, and you need to choose the right location to set up
your office. If you can’t afford your own office space, you can work from a co-working
space or work from home and use a virtual-office address for a professional appeal.
ReDahlia happens to offer both fully furnished offices and virtual-office addresses for an
affordable price and with perks like fast internet and free coffee.
Advertisers are very creative people who love to stimulate inspiration in the workplace.
They design their walls and are always holding creative sessions with teams and clients.
Therefore, having your own office space will give you the freedom to unleash your
creative prowess. If you can afford it, by all means, get your own office at a strategic
location. You might stand a better chance of working with big clients and closing more
deals this way.
Step 5 – Assemble The Team
Creating a compelling ad requires the creativity of different unique minds. These

individuals can be full-time members of the team or part-time. Some processes can be
outsourced as well. The key people you need to hire are copywriters, art directors,
designers, production artists, web designers, creative directors, and so on.
In creating a team, you need to hire key people with the right attitude to the job. This is
because as the agency grows, the team output will have a lasting effect on the business,
and especially on the client’s satisfaction.
At the early stage of the business, you have to be careful of your hiring decisions. Hire
freelancers or people with multiple skills who can multitask. That way, you save money
on labour costs. As the business begins to grow and to generate more revenue, you can
increase your numbers.
Step 6 – Sales and Marketing
Once you are fully set, getting clients is the next thing. This requires devising strategies
that will create brand awareness and attract your target audience.

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First, create an online presence by building a search engine

optimised website. Then, create social media pages and
start to showcase your creativity. Also, include your email
address and other contact information, so you can be easily
contacted by prospective clients.
Also, create a list of all the target clients and devise a means
to approach then and pitch your new business. Although
some of them might already have an agency they work
with, you can still convince them to make a switch with a
better and more affordable service offering.
In addition, list your business in online business directories,

create fliers and business cards, and ask for referrals from
family and friends. And never forget, network, network,
network!
If you are a creative without marketing and sales skills, you

can hire a business development expert with marketing
and sales skills.
Tips For Success In Advertising
A successful advertising agency starts by building good relationships with clients. It

fosters this relationship by listening to the clients, being responsive to their needs, and
sharing their goal of a positive image and increased brand awareness. You need to
invest time in figuring out what your client’s objectives are and ensure that you tailor
your work to helping them achieve those.
Also, it is important to take full ownership and control of your own branding. You can’t
possibly offer what you don’t have. You can’t say you can brand a company when you
have not done it for your own company. A thoroughly planned branding of your own
business will give you credibility and make your clients trust you. For instance, create a
section on your business website that displays the logos of the clients you have worked
with.
In addition, ensure you deliver results at the agreed-upon time. Time management is an
important part of service delivery and a major challenge in the advertising industry.
Therefore, if you agree to do a job for a client, stand out and leave a great impression by
completing your work within the allotted time.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start An Advertising

Agency?
Depending on the scale at which you want to operate, it can become capital intensive to
start an advertising agency. You need to take this into account when you are writing
your business plan and looking for investors.
Here are the costs you will need to cover to start a small-scale agency operating from a
co-working space:
Registration
Office Equipment

3. Fairly Used printer: N15,000 – N23,000
4. Fairly Used Hitachi projector: N25,000
5. Projector Screen: N25,000
6. Office Stationery: from N35,000 for pencils, pens, paper, markers, staplers, pins,
binders, and so on.
7. Whiteboard: N4,500 for 2 x 3 ft magnetic whiteboard
Staff
8. Copywriter: from N115,000/month

9. Art director: from N100,000/month
10. Graphics Designer: from N70,000/month
11. Co-Working Space: ReDahlia provides both private offices and shared desks for an
entire team. The price depends on your team's size.
Other Requirements


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Your start-up costs increase with the size of your business and even more so when you
decide to set up and furnish your own physical workspace.
The advertising agency industry is a very competitive industry with big wigs. However,
there is a place for you if you can apply and build upon what you have learned in this
chapter. Deliver results on time, keep upgrading your hustle, and watch your business
soar.

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CHAPTER 19: BULK SMS BUSINESS

The demand for custom bulk SMS (standing for short message service) is on the rise
because, for many organisations, there is often the need to send a short message or text
to a large number of people at the same time. Obviously, just sending a normal text
message can be quite expensive when you take into account the number of people you
need to send the text to.
This is where bulk SMS comes in. Bulk SMS is a service that allows organisations like
churches, NGOs, business corporations, and so on, to send messages from cell-phones or
personal computers to a large number of phone numbers at once and at a cheaper rate.
A typical text message costs about N4, but with bulk SMS pricing, this cost is cut into
almost half.
One of the advantages of starting a bulk SMS business is that it requires little start-up
capital and becomes profitable quickly. Profitability generally depends on the business
owner and factors like market knowledge, competitive analysis, customer relationships,
and consistency. That being said, with the high demand for bulk SMS features, juicy
profits are attainable.

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By the end of this chapter, you will know how to set up your own Bulk SMS website as
well as how to buy and resell bulk SMS to your customers. But before we dive in let’s
define the bulk SMS business in greater depth.
What Is Bulk SMS Business?

The bulk SMS business is the service of buying bulk SMS credits and features and
reselling to the end-user for a profit. In other words, as bulk SMS businessperson, you
function as a reseller. This reselling is usually carried out through a bulk SMS website.
There are two major types of bulk SMS and you should be able to differentiate them.
Types Of Bulk SMS
A. Promotional Bulk SMS
This is a type of bulk SMS used to promote a brand. Promotional bulk SMS helps create
awareness about a brand, product, service, and event to customers. It is also used to
disseminate information to customers or a group of people.
B. Transactional Bulk SMS
This is another type of bulk SMS used to send alerts or reminders about upcoming events
to large groups. It is basically used to communicate transactions with clients.
How Profitable Is Bulk SMS Business In Nigeria?

Just how profitable is the bulk SMS business in Nigeria? This must be one of the questions
you’ve been asking yourself. The answer is, with enough time invested, “very”.
As we mentioned previously, the bulk SMS business is a profitable venture because it is in

high demand in Nigeria, as many establishments are turning to the use of bulk SMS
instead of traditional text messaging.
In more detail, the bulk SMS business is profitable because it's:
A. Inexpensive To Start
Most aspiring entrepreneurs complain about start-up capital being the reason why they
have not started their businesses.

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And if they eventually get the capital, it may

take a while for them to break even in the
business as they need to earn back all the
capital before profits can be recorded.
However, in the bulk SMS business, there is no

need for much start-up capital. With as little as
N30,000 you are good to go. Also, you won’t
need to set up a physical office to run a bulk
SMS business. You can run your business on
your laptop, phone, or even from a cybercafe.
If you have a full-time job, you can run the

business part-time while you maintain your 9-
5. Actually, the benefits of starting a bulk SMS
business far outweigh any disadvantages you
might be dreading.
B. Easy To Set Up
The bulk SMS business does not require much expertise to set up. In most cases, you will
only need to pay an SMS provider to handle the bulk SMS portal design, installation, host,
and also to test run your new business before handing it over to you.
There are absolutely no technical skills required to start this business, though they can
be an advantage.
C. High Customer Base
With just a few clicks, businesses can send messages to a large number of customers at a
low cost. Therefore, the list of potential clients is close to endless. And we all know that
more clients mean more profit!
How To Start Bulk SMS Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Feasibility Study
It is imperative that you conduct a thorough feasibility study on your target market as
well as the SMS providers or wholesalers with the best reselling plans. After you have
paid for a reselling plan or package, the provider sets you up as an authorised reseller.

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After being set up, your job as a reseller is to buy bulk SMS features and credits from the
provider in large amounts and resell to the end-user for a profit. The quality of the
features you have access to depends on the reselling package you selected.
In addition, during your feasibility study, try to put in some research into other resellers
in the bulk SMS business and find out what providers they use. Conducting a feasibility
study will keep you from spending an unnecessary amount of money or subscribing to a
plan that will harm your profits in the long run.
Step 2 – Set Up Your Own Bulk SMS Website
After a good feasibility study, the next step is to set up a website for your bulk SMS
business. There are 3 ways you could go about his.
Option 1: If you are a web developer, you could choose to create your bulk SMS website
by yourself. As a matter of fact, this is where the majority of the work lies because the
success of your bulk SMS business is largely dependent on the responsiveness of your
website.
Bear in mind that your website should have advanced features like automatic removal of
any duplicate number and the ability to integrate your API. You will also be at an
advantage if your website is professional and welcoming.
Option 2: Another option if you are not a web developer is to pay to host a WordPress
site. These are the basic steps you need to take:
• Register a domain name for your website

• Get a web hosting plan from a reliable web hosting company (e.g. Bluehost)
• Purchase an SMS Gateway Account from an SMS gateway provider
• Link your SMS website to the SMS gateway provider with whom you have created
an account
• Purchase SMS units from the service provider
One last alternative if you don’t have the required resources to build a website from
scratch is the option below:
Option 3: Register with a bulk SMS wholesaler or SMS service provider. This is the easiest
and cheapest option to go for as a beginner. With this option, you wouldn’t need to
bother yourself about building a website as in Option 1 or linking your website to an
SMS gateway provider as in Option 2.

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In addition to authorising you as a reselling agent, a lot of wholesaler bulk SMS

providers will create a reselling website for you after you register with them.
Registering with a provider is the same thing as purchasing one of their reselling
packages, something we briefly discussed earlier. Through this reselling portal, you can
buy your custom SMS directly.
To register with an SMS wholesaler, there are certain charges you will be required to
pay. The pricing differs based on the wholesaler platform you choose. This is another
instance in which the results of your feasibility study are relevant. The results from your
feasibility study should guide you in selecting a cost-effective and reliable wholesaler or
SMS Service Provider. Once you have made that decision and registered with the
provider, move straight to step three.
Step 3 – Purchase Custom Units
You are not officially in bulk SMS business until you fund your account. After
registration, you will have to buy a specific volume of custom units to start.
This SMS unit is what you will re-sell to your customers. In most cases, the wholesaler
platform sells the SMS units to you at a cheap rate that allows you margins for profit.
Once this is done, the wholesaler will then forward your details and the guidelines for
setting up your portal to you.
Step 4 – Design Your Portal To Your Taste
If you choose to go with Option 3 from Step 2, your portal will look like the wholesaler’s
website, and you will need to customise it to your taste. Add the domain name of your
choice, your logo, and all other information that displays your business identity.
Your site layout should be easy to navigate for customers so, fashion it into your portal
design. Furthermore, don’t forget to add contact information which will allow
prospective customers to direct their concerns and questions to you.
Step 5 – Register Your Business Name With CAC
This step is important because you need to open a corporate account into which your
customers can pay. Since it’s impossible to open a corporate account in Nigeria without
your business registration certificate, you will have to get your business registered with
the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Visit CAC’s portal and follow the required
procedures. Or, contact ReDahlia to help you with the process.

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Step 6 – Advertise Your Business
The next step is to promote your business to your

prospective customers. Without promoting and
marketing the business, nobody will ever hear about
it. No exposure means no clients, sales, or profit.
Here are the sectors to target when sourcing for

customers:
• Banks
• E-commerce and Logistics
• Advertising and Event Management
• Airlines and Travels Agencies
• Religious Organisations
• Insurance Companies
• Hotels and Resorts
• Restaurants
• Media and Entertainment
• Political Parties
• Academic Institutions
Start by promoting your business online because

most of your customers are online. An active account
on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter is a good way
to start. Google Ads is also very effective in this type
of business. Offline advertisement is equally
important when promoting your business.
Here are some of the marketing channels to explore:

• Word of mouth marketing
• Email marketing
• Paid online advertisement
• Social media influencer marketing
• Referral
• Newspaper advert
• Blogging

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How Much Will It Cost To Start Your Bulk SMS

Business?
To become a successful bulk SMS reseller, these are the investments you need to make:
1. Fairly Used Laptop: N35,000 – N150,000 for a Windows PC.

3. Hosting a WordPress website for your Blog (this is useful to drive customers to
your business). If you decide to go with Option 2 from Step 2 above, you could also
host a website for your bulk SMS business itself. Bluehost offers a basic plan for new
websites:
4. Reselling Package or Plan and SMS credits: these vary by provider. However,
most basic reselling plans start at N25,000 and come with a website and a free
domain name for a year. The price of an SMS credit or unit can start at N1.65 and most
providers have set a minimum amount of credits you can purchase at once.
In conclusion, before choosing the price to charge your customers per SMS, consider the
amount you are paying for the units acquired from your service provider and any other
cost you might have incurred. This will save you from undercharging and overcharging.

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CHAPTER 20: SUPERMARKET BUSINESS

A supermarket is a place where you can get essential and non-essential commodities of all
kinds. The supermarket business is not a new kind of business, and it’s a lucrative but
expensive business to start.
In a supermarket, you have different types of consumables, household equipment, and

appliances that satisfy all kinds of clients. Basically, a supermarket is a place where all
classes of people visit to shop for their needs. Supermarkets tend to do well because they
supply a broad variety of goods all in one place so that consumers don’t need to move
from one place to the other.
Supermarket Business
A supermarket is a large retail shop where all kinds of groceries, household goods, and
products are sold. Goods are organised into sections on shelves and aisles in a manner that
makes the products both appealing and easy to identify.
The supermarket is becoming the preferred place to shop in Nigeria because it’s easy to
navigate and you can find most of the things you need at relatively affordable prices.

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Also, the flexible payment option is extremely enticing. In supermarkets, you can pay for
your purchases both electronically and in cash, which is not the case in more traditional,
open-air markets.
The supermarket business, whereby you would be launching and operating a

supermarket, is capital intensive but profitable. The self-service style, where most
customers can serve themselves until they get to the cashier for payment, reduces the
cost of labour in running a supermarket.
Let’s take a look at the important steps you need to take to start a successful supermarket
business in Nigeria.
Steps To Starting A Supermarket Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Business Planning and Business Registration
Starting any business requires deliberate planning, start-up capital and industry
knowledge.
First, conduct a feasibility study of the opportunities and threats in the business venture.
The results of the study are usually included in your business plan.
In the business plan, you will state the aims and objectives of the proposed business, the
capital required, the modus operandi, and the possible steps to improve profit. Also, the
business plan will provide documentation of the market, competitors, pricing, and help
you draw up strategies to beat the competition.
After conducting your feasibility study and writing your business plan, proceed to do a
business registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission.
It is also important that you fulfil your tax obligations. Pay tax to the appropriate
authority and ensure to get the proper licenses and permits.
Step 2 – Secure Capital
Starting a supermarket business from scratch is usually heavily capital intensive. For
instance, renting or building your store can be quite expensive in Nigeria, and depending
on its location and size, can require tens of millions of Naira.
If you don’t have the capital and you really intend to venture into the business, you can
seek funding with your business plan.

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You can approach banks for a loan or seek out investors that
will invest in your business either as debt financing or in
return for equity. There are other ways you can raise capital
for your business: through your personal savings, selling of an
asset, through friends and family, using crowdfunding sites,
or even through cooperative societies. Entrepreneurs.ng has
published several enlightening guides on how to obtain grants
and capital to start a large-scale business.
There are different elements in the business that require a lot

of capital. You will have to consider rent, the cost of
furnishing and setting up the store, the cost of purchasing
goods, deployment, buying computers, and the cost of paying
salaries.
All of these require money and from our estimates, you will
need at least N3 million naira to set up a mini standard
supermarket business. Bear in mind that this amount is
dependent on your location in Nigeria.
Step 3 – Choose the Location of Your Store
The location of your store determines the success and failure of a supermarket business.
You can’t possibly run a standard supermarket in a rural area. This is because, in
addition to possibly hurting the livelihood of the locals, you will also have fewer
customers as compared to the more urban or suburban areas.
Consider setting up your store on a busy street, close to a junction, a petrol filling station,
or in any area with high passer-by traffic. Also, setting up in an environment with a
good power supply is ideal to minimise fuel expenses for a generator.
Step 4 – Build A Store
Once the location has been sorted, the next thing is to erect the structure or if not, to rent
a space. After that, you proceed to furnish the supermarket, arrange shelves, and display
items in a way that they can be seen easily.
Create different sections and categories and use tags or signboards for direction. The
supermarket should be spacious for easy movement to avoid customers bumping into
each other.

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For comfort, the store should have cooling systems (fans and AC) in different sections.
Also, for security, the store should be burglary-proof with fire alarms and extinguishers
installed in case of a fire outbreak.
Step 5 – Set Up A Warehouse
Except you plan to run a small shop, the supermarket business is not a business where
you run to the market every day to stock up on inventory. What you need to do is buy
goods in large quantities and store them in a warehouse so that you can easily replace
depleted sold-out goods.
The warehouse can be behind or beside the supermarket or in another corner of the
building. It should be out-of-bounds to non-staff members.
The warehouse manager must take extra precaution in stacking the goods. Every item
should be labelled and tagged. Fragile goods should be kept far from heavy items, edibles
from non-edibles, perishables from non-perishable. Furthermore, your warehouses
should be secured at all times.
Step 6 – Hire The Supermarket Staff
The supermarket business is different from a local store where only one person can
operate the day-to-day activities. Due to the sensitivity of the business, you need to hire
experienced staff who are customer-friendly and trustworthy. You can organise training
and seminars for proper integration.
Some of the personnel you need to run a supermarket are:
General Managers – They oversee the smooth running of operations of the entire
business, such as staff coordination and managing the facility.
Cashiers/Accountant– These people are always at the counter ready to process sales
and receive payment. They must be tech-savvy, smart, and proactive.
Sales Personnel – They move goods from the warehouse and arrange them on the
shelves for shoppers. Also, they guide buyers on where to locate items of different kinds.
Security Personnel – Security ensures the safety of lives and property. They coordinate
vehicle parking and guide incoming customers.

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Warehouse Manager – He or she manages the warehouse and ensures that the
inventory is well preserved.
Cleaners – Ensure the cleanliness of the entire buildings at all times.
Drivers – Transport goods and services relating to the business.
Equipment Needed In A Supermarket

Generator: The air conditioning, counting machine, refrigerators, and bulbs need to be
constantly working. Therefore, a standby generator is useful in case of a power outage.
Computer and Automated cash register: This allow for proper accounting and quick
receipt generation.
Refrigerators: as many as you can afford. They are useful for storing perishable items,
drinks, yoghurt, chocolate, ice- cream, and so on.
Cart/Trolley/ Shopping Basket: To convey purchased items to the counter for

payment.
Surveillance Camera: Depending on the size of your store, you might need to install a
surveillance camera in every area. This will curb shoplifting.
Products To Sell
As a supermarket owner, you should have different reliable sources for the products you
sell. As long as you are not selling one particular item, it is important to create links with
manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, importers, and marketers of all kinds of goods.
It is also important to know when to restock, what quantity to restock, and how to
negotiate and get the best price. You can sell all kinds of food (fresh, frozen, baked, and
cooked), kitchen utensils, toys, home appliances, and other highly demanded
commodities.
Some other items you can sell include cosmetics, biscuit/candies, stationery, clothing,
shoes, phones and accessories, pieces of jewellery, beverages, pharmaceutical items,
cream, toiletries, flowers, decoration products, books, baby care products, etcetera.

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Tools for Inventory

Using software to keep track of your inventory will help you discover the fast-selling
goods, monitor every item that is sold, and note the items that need to be replaced. There
are different tools that you can use to track your inventory like Inflow, Odoo, and others
like them.
You can use a computer fitted with a barcode scanner and inventory software to
monitor your inventory. This way, items are automatically registered into the system just
by scanning.
Manually tracking your inventory is another option, though a tedious one. Nonetheless,
learning how to track manually serves as an alternative in case there is downtime with
your software.
Payment
Payment for items are made at the counter. The counter is where people pay for items
and receive a receipt. Each item sold must be scanned by the barcode scanner for the
computer to process the transaction and update the inventory list.
At the counter, you can employ some marketing gimmicks by placing some irresistible
offers at the checkpoint to boost sales. Some of these items are cookies, chocolates and
children toys. This type of strategy works all the time on customers waiting in the queue.
Marketing
Promote awareness of your brand within your vicinity. The people in your locality
should know about the existence of your business. Also, create customized cellophane
bags to pack purchased goods with your business name, logo, and contact address
visibly printed.
Design, print, and distribute flyers around your locality. Also, invest in billboard
advertisements. Offer coupons, bonuses, and discounts.

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Additionally, it will help you stand out if you have an online department where people
can order items online and have everything delivered to their doorstep.
Most importantly, ensure that you offer quality customer service and sell quality goods
that are not spoilt or expired. If you sell expired goods, the word will spread and you will
lose customers.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Supermarket?

As you have probably guessed, the answer to this question is: “a lot”. In this section, we
will break down the financial investments you can expect to make when opening a mini-
standard supermarket of your own.

2. NAFDAC Registration: varies with size of supermarket.
Building Requirements

4. Building Materials:
• 1 Bag of Cement (50kg): N1,800 – N2,800 (varies with brand).

• Clean Granite (20 tonnes): N90,000 – N120,000 (varies with the size of granite
grains in inches. The larger the grains the more expensive).
• Stone Dust Granite (20 tonnes): N60,000
• Gravel (20 tonnes): N42,000
• Sharp Sand (20 Tonnes): N40,000 – N45,000 (varies with silt content. The more silt,
the more expensive)
• Smooth Plaster Sand (20 Tonnes): N45,000 – N50,000
• Laterite (20 Tonne): N18,000 – N22,000 (varies with clay content and colour. The
more clay the more expensive.)
• Blocks (Sandcrete): N150 – N190 for one (varies with weight/hollowness and size)
• Nails (one bag): N5,800 – N6,500 (price increases with length of nails).
• Steel Rod: N700 – N4,800 for one (varies with the length of rod)
• BRC Mesh (20 m): N14,000 – N17,000 (varies with the size of holes in the mesh. Mesh
with larger holes cost more)
• Binding Wire (1 roll): N5,000 – N7,000 (the stiffer the wire, the more expensive).
• Roofing Sheet (0.5mm thick): N2,900 – N4,000/square meter (varies with material
and design).

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• Alternatively, consider price for building a small building in Nigeria capable of

housing supermarket (average includes architect, labourer and technician fees):
N3.5 – N8 million.
Supermarket Equipment and Personnel
5. Shopping Baskets and Carts:

• Shopping Basket: N5,000
• Shopping Cart: N33,000
6. Refrigerators and Freezers: N70,000 – N300,000

7. Air Conditioner: from N100,000
8. Customised Shopping Bag: from N250 for one
9. Computers: N35,000 – N150,000 for Windows PC
10. Electric Cash Register: from N100,000; N200,000 for register with computer screen.
11. Manual Barcode Scanner: from N12,000
12. Surveillance Camera: N8,000 for 1-way CCTV camera
13. Generator: from N70,000
14. Staff:
• Cashier– from N45,000/month
• Sales Personnel – from N50,000/month
• Security Personnel – from N45,000/month
• Warehouse Manager – from N65,000/month
• Cleaner – from N35,000/month
• Driver – from N50,000/month
Other Requirements
15. Inflow/Odoo (inventory software):

• Inflow: N330,000/year
• Odoo: Opensource (free)


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Naturally, you will have to take into account the costs of the goods you are planning to
sell. Additionally, you also need to factor in the cost of employing electricians,
carpenters, and builders who will help set up your store, as well as the cost of cleaning
supplies, petrol or diesel, and uniforms for the staff.
In this chapter, we have established that the supermarket business is capital intensive
and highly competitive but very profitable if done right. If owning a supermarket has
always been a dream of yours, don’t be intimidated – act now.

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CHAPTER 21: BAKERY BUSINESS

If you’ve ever considered starting a bakery business in Nigeria, this chapter contains
everything you need to get started. The bakery business is lucrative because it meets the
daily needs of many people. In fact, the food business is one of the fastest-growing
industries in the world, and thus, investing in a bakery business would not be out of place.
If you have culinary skills and want to learn how to commercialise it to a large market,
you are in the right place. Also, the bakery business is not only for people with culinary
backgrounds. There are several people in the industry with no culinary skills who are
doing remarkably well.
Before starting any business, it is important to have an overview of what you will need
and the costs. A standard bakery requires a high start-up cost, particularly when you
factor in the baking equipment, baking materials, labour, and lease. Generally, when
evaluating start-up costs, you should consider the following:
• Public Utilities
• Marketing
• Permits and Licenses
• Lease (continues on the next page)

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• Furniture
• Staff
• Design and Repair
• Equipment
• Miscellaneous expenses
How To Start A Bakery Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Decide The Type Of Bakery You Want To Open
The bakery business is vast and deep, and to have a fighting chance at success, you will
need to select a niche for yourself. There are bakeries that focus on the sale of baked
bread, some focus on cake baking, some on sandwiches, and others on pastries. You can
choose to start a retail or a wholesale bakery:
A. Retail Bakeries
Most bakeries fall under the retail tag. As the name implies, retail bakeries sell baked
foods directly to the end-consumers. Here are some of the retail bakery niches you can
select from:
i. Traditional Bakeries
In Nigeria, a “traditional bakery” specialises in biscuits and bread. Here, bread is

generally fast food that people purchase and consume daily. To tap into this booming
market, you can make different types and flavours of bread, from coconut to butter to
chocolate bread. There’s no limit to the level of creativity you can put into the baking of
bread. Cookies and biscuits will likely yield a similar amount of success since both
children and adults consume these very often.
ii. Specialty Bakeries

These types of bakeries focus on a particular type of baked food. A good example of a
specialty bakery is a cake bakery. There’s always someone celebrating a birthday, a
wedding, an anniversary, or even a retirement! The demand for well-made cakes is high
and consistent all over the world, and the cake business would be a good start.
iii. Pastry Shops

Many people want snacks they can quickly grab in the afternoon before lunch or dinner.
Most of us would agree that a delicious baked good paired with a cold drink is one of the
little pleasures in life.

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Pastry shops specialise in the baking of different

types of snacks including but not limited to meat
pies, egg rolls, muffins, doughnuts, sausage rolls,
and so on. With little capital, you can get a brick
and mortar shop and set your pastry business up.
iv. Baked Goods Trucks/Vans

You might have come across a bakery van at some
point. So, rather than establishing a brick and
mortar store, you could take your shop on four
wheels instead. Find a van to sell different types of
baked food such as bread, cupcakes, and other on-
the-go foods.
This type of bakery is lucrative because you are not

stuck at a particular location. You can always drive
your van to any location where your target
audience is in high concentration.
v. Home Bakeries
This is another type of bakery that is gradually gathering steam. In an era where every
business is going online, you can carry out all baking procedures in your kitchen and sell
them off online.
This is cheap to start because you don’t need to spend any money on renting out a shop.
The only thing you need is to purchase bulk amounts of the ingredients used to bake
your delicacies.
vi. Bakery Cafe

This bakery offers more than just baked food. They go a little further and add coffee and
tea to their offerings. Basically, a bakery cafe serves pastries, coffees, and tea. In this
type of bakery, there are tables where people can sit to have their meals.
B. Wholesale Bakeries
The wholesale bakery is another type of bakery business and unlike the retail bakeries,
caters to a larger customer base. A wholesale bakery sells directly to retailers who in
turn sell to the end-consumers.

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Once you’ve selected the niche in which you want to specialise and the type of product
you want to sell, you can then move on to the next step.
Step 2 – Register Your Business With the CAC
The best way to structure your business in Nigeria is to get it registered with the CAC as
we always preach at ReDahlia. Most times, unregistered businesses find it difficult to
build trust with prospective clients. Register your business yourself or pay a firm like
ReDahlia to get it done and then deliver your certificate.
The next step is to draft a business plan that highlights the goals and objectives of your
business and how you hope to achieve them. Typically, a good business plan should
contain the following:
a. Executive Summary
b. Company Description
c. Product or Service Description
d. Industry Analysis
e. SWOT Analysis
f. Market Research
g. Financial Projections
h. Appendix
A solid business plan can help you secure funding from investors or venture capitalists.
Entrepreneur.ng has published a guide on the mistakes to avoid when seeking funding
from venture capitalists. Check it out and integrate the information into your business
plan. Also, we can help you tailor your business plan to your need.
Step 4 – Baking Equipment

If you intend on baking in-house without relying on wholesalers, it is highly
recommended that you get some baking experience before starting. Otherwise, you can
hire someone who is a trained baker.
A typical bakery should have the following items:

1. Mixers
2. Oven
3. Dough proofer

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4. Bakeware
5. Refrigerator
6. Wood Top worktable
7. Proof boxes
8. Racks and baking sheets
9. Sinks
10. Flour Sifters
11. Trays
Step 5 – Rent A Space For Your Bakery
The type of space you’ll need will largely depend on the type of bakery you are starting.
For instance, if you are starting a van bakery, you’ll need to purchase a van and probably
hire a driver.
On the other hand, if you are starting a home bakery, another good way to start, you
would not need a large physical space other than your home kitchen. An online platform
and a delivery company will help to get your product to your customers.
But, if you are starting a traditional bakery or pastry shop, you can go for a commercial
space. Rent a property and get the necessary lease agreement signed. Before signing
your lease agreement, however, make sure to read through or get a lawyer to verify that
whatever you are signing will not hurt your business in the long run.
In addition, choose a location that brings you closer to your target audience. A neat,
highly commercial environment with high foot traffic is ideal.
Other things you need to consider when renting a space include:

• Accessibility
• Demographics
• Competition
• Health regulations
• Safety and crime rates
• Size and space requirements
• Proximity to customers and suppliers
Also, be sure to take note of the following when choosing a space:

• The bakery space must have a bakery, storage, and an administrative section.
• Your bakery should be located far away from drainage and high pollution factories.
(continues on next page)

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• It is a requirement for every bakery to have a cloth room

where your workers have a change of clothes.
• Your bakery should have heat extractor to expel heat from
the kitchen
• You must have fire extinguishers and emergency exit for
safety purposes.
• Your bakery should also have smoke detectors.
Step 6 – Obtain The Relevant Licenses,

Permits And Regulations
Running a bakery business is comparable to running a fast-

food company. Hence, the regulations can be heavy
sometimes. Apart from registration with CAC as discussed
earlier, you will need to register with associations like the
Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria
(AMBCN) in your local government area. The Association of
Master Bakers and The National Agency for Food and Drug
Administration and Control (NAFDAC) will carry out a
thorough inspection of your location.
Usually, inspection and approval by NAFDAC can take from 6 months to 1 year, but your
relationship with the Master Bakers stands for as long as the bakery exists. Additionally,
you’ll need to provide details on your suppliers to NAFDAC and AMBB so they can verify
that you are using adequate equipment and ingredients for production. Furthermore,
the Ministry of Environment and Fire Department is also authorised to stop by at your
bakery for environmental inspections.
Remember to research other required permits aside from the ones mentioned here. This
might vary by state.
Step 7 – Hire And Train Staff
The size of your bakery will determine the size of your staff. If you are running a
standard bakery or pastry shop, for instance, you may need to employ front-end
personnel who will accept orders. Also, hire two or more people who have formal
training or bakery experience to oversee the actual baking.
In addition, you may want to hire a few people to handle the dishwashing, mixing of
ingredients, product packaging, and other menial jobs around the bakery.

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Step 8 – Market And Grow Your Bakery Business
The aim of every business is to grow and remain profitable. There is a need for a good
marketing strategy if you want to get your business on the radar of target clients. Both
new and existing businesses need a solid marketing plan to survive.
While drafting your business plan, you would have done market research which would
provide a guide to follow. Additionally, there are marketing agencies whose job it is to
advertise your business to your target audience.
However, if you cannot afford a marketing agency, you can attract your prospective
clients through these tested and trusted channels:
• Word-of-mouth marketing
• Social media advertising
• Sharing of flyers, handbills, and posters
• Pay-per-click marketing
• Email marketing
• Website
• Referral/affiliate programs
• Reviews/testimonials collation
• Get listed on relevant directories
Challenges Of The Bakery Industry
A. People Are Becoming More Health Conscious
We live in an era where consumers are more health-conscious, and many are demanding
more gluten-free, low carbohydrate, whole grain, and organic foods.
More and more, people are substituting baked goods with nuts, yoghurt, and fruit bars.
Therefore, bakers should factor these in their plan. It is ideal to have a section for healthy
baked foods for people who would prefer healthier options.
B. Profit Margin May Be Low
Another challenge is that profit margins are often quite small. When you consider the
labour and the utility costs of running a bakery, there is a possibility that your profit
margins on some products could be under 5%.

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C. High Costs of Ingredients
While baking ingredients can be relatively expensive, there’s no guarantee that you will
sell all of your baked goods each and every day. This is why intense marketing is a
necessity in this line of business.
Advantages Of A Bakery Business
A. High Traffic Locations Can Make For Easy Profits

If you are successful in choosing a good location and can bake delicious food, you are
halfway to making huge profits. The aroma of baked food can be just as effective as a
billboard in some cases.
B. You Can Start Out From Your Home

To start a bakery business, you don’t necessarily need to own a space. However, you will
still have to adhere to regulations and get a license that authorises your business.
However, starting from home will allow you to save some money and start with much
lower start-up capital.
C. It Is Easy To Gain Customers

Practically, if people try your baked food and enjoy it, they are likely to tell others about
it. As more and more people try your products, your customer base will keep increasing.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Bakery Business?

Here is our breakdown of the funding requirements for a new medium-large scale
bakery business:


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3. NAFDAC Registration Number (for packaged products) –

May 2020 has been subsidized by up to 80% due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Check out
businesses.
4. Yearly Dues for Master Bakers Association: varies with size of bakery.
Bakery Equipment
5. Fire Extinguisher: from N7,000

6. Smoke Detector: from N3,000
7. Heat Expeller Fan: from N10,000
8. Basic baking equipment –
• Pans: from N2,000
• Brush: from N1,000 for 3
• Spatula: N500
• Rolling Pin: N1,200
• Flour Sifter: N900
• Baking sheet: N1000
• Weighing Scale: from N2,500
• Stirring Rod or Wooden Spoon: from N200
• Large bowls: from N300
• Measuring cup and spoons set: N2,500
9. Mixers: from N15,000

10. Oven: from N100,000
11. Decoration Nozzles: N2,450
12. Refrigerator: N70,000 – N300,000
13. Staff –
a. Trained Baker: N50,000
b. Sales personnel: N45,000
c. Baking Assistant: N40,000

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Other Requirements
14. Bakery Space: varies with size and location.

16. Host a WordPress Website with Bluehost + install the free WooCommerce plugin:
It is no secret that the bakery business is one of the most lucrative businesses anyone can
start. Needless to say, the demand for baked products will always exist; the market will
always be there. Select a niche for yourself, bake goods that set you apart by even just a
little, and watch your business grow.

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CHAPTER 22: PRINTING BUSINESS

The printing business has proven to be one business that won’t go into extinction anytime
soon. Accessible and affordable printing services make everything easier for individuals
going about their daily lives.
However, we must note that printing is not one of the businesses you dive into without
prior knowledge of the basics. A certain level of expertise is a huge plus in this line of
business. Printing is a wide field, and this is why some tertiary institutions are beginning
to offer printing courses as part of their curriculum.
Basically, the printing business is a type of business that involves printing on a

commercial level. This involves the use of machines to get artwork or text out on paper or
on another type of substrate.
In this chapter, we will outline some of the basic knowledge you need to begin your
printing business. All the same, we encourage you to gain practical experience as this will
take you further in the long run.

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Printing Terms To Be Familiar With
1. Pre-Press
This is a term used in printing industries for the processes and procedures that occur
before printing is carried out. These procedures include graphic design, proofreading,
lithography, digital or computer colour separation, paper cutting, and so on. Some prefer
to focus only on the pre-press aspect of printing.
2. Press
This is the next stage after pre-press is done. This is where the actual printing gets done.
Projects only go to press after they have passed the pre-press stage. Mistakes at the pre-
press stage will automatically affect the actual printing and result in costly reprints.
Another set of personnel is involved at the press stage. They operate the printing press or
machines. If you know how to operate any printing machine, you can choose to offer the
press aspect of printing.
3. Post-Press
Post-press is a crucial part of any printing process and takes place after the actual
printing is completed. It helps in determining the final look, shape, and feel of the printed
product.
Steps To Starting A Printing Business In Nigeria
Step 1 – Find A Printing Niche
To become successful in the printing business, it is better to find a niche than to joggle
different types of printing. As explained earlier, you can either choose the pre-press,
press, or post-press aspect of printing, but if you have the capital, you can invest in all
three.
Here are some of the niches to consider.
A. Offset Litho Printing
Offset printing is a form of printing where artwork (graphic file) is transferred unto a
metal plate and then from the plates to a rubber blanket.

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Thereafter, the inked blankets will be used to run the

printing on paper. This is called offset printing
because of the different procedures involved.
Often, offset printing is used when a large volume of

printing is required. Printers who are trained to carry
out this process are called lithographers.
Professional lithographers are usually in demand
because any error in the offset process will
automatically affect the final output.
B. Digital Colour Separation Printing
Digital colour separation is another pre-press printing

business to invest in. Usually, a graphic file contains
maximum of four colours (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow,
Black). Except one is printing on a digital image
machine, the four colours need to be separated before
sending them to the press for printing.
This separation can be done on a computer and is called computer separation.
Computer separation is usually done by graphic designers. However, most times,

computer separation is not as sharp as digital colour separation. Statistically, most
people prefer digital colour separation. To engage in this business, you will need to buy
the digital colour separation machine.
C. Large Format Printing
Another alternative is to purchase a large-format machine. A large-format machine is

very big and carries out direct printing on flex, SAV, custom banners, backdrops,
window graphics, roll up banners, vehicle wrap printing, and similar objects.
A large-format machine has a small and big size. You can get one for about N 2.5million.
Large-format printing is a very lucrative niche considering the number of churches,
organisations, and government agencies that employ large format printing regularly.
D. Screen Printing
This is another printing niche that has been around since the early 20th century and is
used for printing on fabrics, wood, glass, signage, etc. This requires training as well.

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In screen printing, the image or artwork is transferred to a fine mesh. Then any area that
needs to remain blank will be covered with a substrate. The printing process involves
pushing ink through the openings in the mesh onto the end material. It does not cost a lot
to start.
E. Sign Printing
Sign printing deals with the printing of signage like those big banners you’ve seen on the
expressway. You can partner with companies to handle their public signage and big
banner jobs.
F. Lamination
Lamination is another post-press niche to explore. Once the entire printing process is
complete, the laminating process begins.
Some customers want to have their brochures, paper bags, and jotters laminated. Hence,
you can purchase a laminating machine, secure a shop, and offer laminating services.
This is even more lucrative if your shop or office is located close to printing presses.
G. Finishing
There’s another niche called ‘finishing’ in printing. This also deals with post-press
activities. For instance, if you want to produce a jotter, the printing press will only do the
printing for you but there are some people whose job it is to fix the spiral bind at the
edges of the jotter. These people handle the finishing aspect.
Another example is affixing ropes on paper bags, folding, binding, and collations of
programme booklets, etc. This aspect of printing is cheap to start and you need little
knowledge to begin.
Step 2 – Familiarise Yourself With The Printing World
Printing requires knowledge of colour separation, colour match and colour recognition.
This is not something you want to guess your way around. In addition, you have to be
familiar with the processing of CMYK (Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black) which are the four
primary colours in printing.
The best way to learn these is to go to a printing environment and learn how it is done.
However, if you have prior experience in the printing industry, you can skip this step.

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Once you find the niche you want to play in, the next step to take is to find a suitable
business name and register it with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). By now, you
should have known that ReDahlia is your plug if you can't process the business
registration yourself.
Step 4 – Research The Equipment You’ll Need
Before acquiring your equipment, research your competition and the equipment they
use. Don’t forget that printing keeps evolving. A trending machine this year may become
obsolete in the coming years. Hence, you need to always keep yourself abreast of the
latest development.
Once you discover your target audience, visit the printing presses that are currently
catering to that audience, and observe the equipment they use.
Not only that, but also, find out what they lack so that you can include it in your services
to attract customers. Offering what your competitors don’t have will give you a
competitive advantage. If you cannot visit all the printing presses, a faster route is to
check out their websites for the information you need.
Normally, there are several printing machines that come in different sizes and serve
different purposes.
Below are some of the commonly used printing machines.
A. 201 Impression Machine
The 201 machine is used for running printing impressions on A4 and ledger-sized papers.
Most starters begin with this machine. You can use this machine to print one coloured or
full coloured jobs. The cost of 201 machine is between N800,000 to N1,000,000.
B. Cutting Machine
This machine is used to cut wide papers or cards to the required sizes. Most times, papers
come in A1 size. Therefore, if you need to print an A2, A3, A4 or A5 sized jobs, you would
need to cut the papers to suit the size. Furthermore, the cutting machine is used to trim
the rough edges of printed jobs. This is to maintain a neat finishing of the job done. This
machine cost is between N2 – N3million

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C. Kord Machine
While 201 machine prints on A4 and ledger-sized

papers, Kord machine prints on larger sheets of
papers or cardstock. A good Kord machine costs
approximately N5million.
D. Direct Image Printing Machine
This is also called a DI machine. With a DI, one can

print from small sizes as A6 to bigger banners.
However, this machine is quite expensive. If you
cannot afford it at the beginning, you can make
do with the 201 and Kord machine. DI machine
costs about N15 million.
The difference between the DI machine and the

machines mentioned previously is that you don’t
need colour separation to print on DI. Before you
can print on a 201 or Kord machine, you would
first need to separate the colours into Cyan,
Magenta, Yellow and Black. So, the machines run
each of the four colours separately. DI, on the
other hand, sends the graphic file from your
computer system and prints the four colours at
once.
Another interesting thing is that the output of DI is very sharp. DI allows you to send PDF
or JPG files from your computer and print directly on canvas, photographs, paper, fabric,
synthetics, cards, and other substrates.
Other equipment includes:

• Computer systems
• Office equipment
• Generator
• Graphic design software
• Accounting software

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Step 5 – Draft Your Printing Business Plan
Here are the basic information your business plan should have:
1. An overview of your printing business
4. SWOT analysis
5. Market research
6. Your strategy
7. The team
8. A marketing plan
11. An appendix
Step 6 – Secure Funding For Your Printing Business
At this stage, if you cannot finance the equipment yourself, you will need to secure
funding. The printing business is capital intensive, so this step is very important. You can
start by sending out your business plan to banks or other establishments that support
new businesses.
There are quite a number of initiatives that give grants to entrepreneurs. Importantly,
you need to acknowledge that not all printers own a printing press. Some started out as
contractors, which is a relatively cheaper way to start. You can source for clients, get a
good graphic designer to do the artwork, partner with an established printing press to
carry out the printing, then deliver the job to your client. It’s that simple.
Actually, this is one of the best ways to start a printing business. This is because as a
contractor, you will have the opportunity to learn the pros and cons of the business so
that when you finally own a press, you’ll be well-grounded in the business.
Step 7 – Secure A Space In A Good Location
If you want to own a printing press, you will definitely need to rent a space where you
can set up your equipment. The cost will differ based on the location you choose.

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This step cannot be overemphasised because location plays a major role in the success of
a printing business. Preferably, choosing a location where printing activities are
dominant is ideal.
For example, in a place like Lagos, Nigeria, the first two places that come to mind when
you think of printing are Shomolu and Mushin. You can begin from such locations and
gradually expand to other locations as you grow.
In simple terms, choose a location that brings you closer to your customers. Once you
secure a place, you can then set up all your machines and equipment.
Step 8 – Employ Skilled Labour
Statistically, most printing business enterprises employ fewer than 10 people. As more
business owners utilise digital printing equipment, fewer skilled technicians will be
needed to operate the machines. That said, there are two major people you will need to
employ for a start.
A. Graphic Designer
A good graphic designer will draw prospective customers to your business. This is
because clients prefer to do their printing in the same place they get their artwork
designed.
Hence, a graphic designer is a great plus to your printing business. Also, a graphic
designer will help adjust images and colours before sending it out for final printing. The
size of your business will determine the number of graphic designers you employ.
B. Machine Operator
Some people are trained to operate printing machines. Printing machines are expensive
and should be treated with the utmost care. Hence, always look out for experienced
machine operators that will not mishandle the machines.
Step 9 – Market Your Printing Business
This is another very important stage of the entire set-up. As you know, nobody will know
about your business if you don’t advertise or talk about it. As a matter of fact, all other
efforts will go to waste if this step is ignored.

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Therefore, explore every available marketing

option and don’t stop marketing even when it
seems like you have all the customers you need.
Here are some of the marketing options to

explore:
1. Social media marketing
2. Paid advert
3. Sharing of Handbills/Flyers/Posters
4. Collaboration and partnership
5. TV/Radio advert
6. Offering freebies
7. Referral marketing
8. Word of mouth
9. Email marketing
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Printing Business?
The printing business is resource-oriented, and its needs vary depending on your niche.
You can either start small or on a large scale. However, here are the major costs you’ll
incur when starting out:

2. Printing Space: varies with size and location.
binders and so on.
4. Desktop Computer: from N110,000 for one Windows OS
5. Graphic Design Software:
• Canva (N5,000/month)
• Adobe Photoshop (N8,000/month)
• Gimp (free)
• Seashore (free)
6. Generator: from N70,000

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7. Printing Equipment: as we saw in Step 4, the price of good printing equipment

ranges from N800,000 to N15m. You will want to select a machine and niche based on
your budget.
8. Staff:
• Graphic Designer: from N70,000/month
• Machine Operator: from N50,000/month
Without mincing words, the printing business is one of the ways to amass wealth. As you
begin your business, pay attention to trends in the industry in order not to become
obsolete. As with every business, you will need to invest hard work and time to succeed.

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CHAPTER 23: POULTRY FARMING
Today, poultry farming is an indispensable segment of agriculture. It comprises over 25%

of the GDP contributed by the agricultural sector to the nation’s economy. Running a
poultry farming business is not only lucrative but can also make you an employer of
labour.
Despite the increase in the number of entrepreneurs investing in poultry farming, the
demand for poultry products still remains enormous. This is because poultry meat and
eggs are one of the most consumed animal proteins in Nigeria. One could even argue that
there is even a need for more entrepreneurs to embrace poultry farming.
Poultry Farming Business
Poultry farming is the act of rearing and breeding domestic birds for commercial
purposes or for personal consumption. Examples of poultry are chickens, turkeys, ducks,
geese, peacocks, guinea fowls, etc. The main purpose of a poultry farm can be to produce
eggs, feathers, or meat. Currently, Nigeria has the second-largest chicken population in
Africa after South Africa.

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Nigeria produces thousands of tonnes of eggs and meat through the poultry business and
contributes to people’s livelihoods through numerous channels.
Poultry farming provides income for families, employment that boosts the economy,
manure for fertilisers, and investment opportunity for investors. More so, the high
consumption rate of the end products of poultry farming makes the success of the
business guaranteed.
In this chapter, we will explore a strategy of starting a poultry farm with a step-by-step
guide, and of course determine how much capital you would need to invest.
How To Start A Poultry Farming Business
Step 1 – Business Plan And Business Registration
You should know by now that the first and most important steps to starting any business
are having a business plan and registering your business with the appropriate
authorities. Here, we’ve combined them into a single step.
First, a business plan includes a workable business model with a clear means of
generating revenue. Next, your business should be registered with the Corporate Affairs
Commission (CAC). You can either register as a business name, limited liability company
or partnership. You may need to speak to a lawyer to guide you or reach out to ReDahlia
which offers business registration as part of their services.
Step 2 – Note That Initial Capital Depends On Scale
Poultry farming can be capital intensive depending on the scale at which you want to
operate. If you want to start small, you can start with as little capital as your savings can
afford.
Operating on a large scale requires hundreds of thousands to up to millions of naira. The

larger the starting scale, the more capital investment you have to make. Simply put, what
you put in, is what you get out.
Step 3 – Select A Farm Location
In poultry farming, location is an important factor. The location has a direct effect on
your cost and plans. For instance, you can decide to start from your home if it’s spacious
enough or buy a piece of land where you can rear thousands of chickens.

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Furthermore, operating a poultry farm in a rural area, far away from noise pollution is
recommended. Operating in rural areas helps cut down expenses and gives you access to
cheap labour. However, you will still have to factor in transportation and a road
network. A good road network ensures that you are accessible to buyers and that it’s
easy for you to transport your products to the point of sale.
In addition, make sure that your farm has easy access to clean water, electricity and that
it is secure.
Step 4 – Choose The Type Of Poultry Farming
After choosing a location, the next step is to conclude on the kind of livestock you want to
rear. The chicken is the most widely domesticated fowl. It is generally raised for its meat
and its eggs and less commonly, as a pet.
There are 2 common types of farm chicken: broilers and layers. The broiler chicken is
raised for its meat while the layer is raised to produce eggs. In terms of yield, a broiler
chicken can be ready for sale in about two-months if well-fed. Furthermore, a layer hen
can lay over 300 eggs in about 364 days before becoming weak and subsequently being
used for meat.
In the same vein, poultry farming can also involve hatchery. A hatchery is a place where
eggs are artificially controlled for commercial purposes and hatched into chicks.
Another path in the poultry business would be poultry feed production. For birds to
grow and be productive, they need to be well-fed. Their feed must be balanced,
nutrition-wise. Producing nutritious feed is a lucrative business in poultry farming.
Step 5 – Select and Build Housing Structures
Poultry housing can be grouped into three systems: extensive, semi-intensive, and
intensive.
First, the extensive system employs the free-range system of housing. One adopts the
free-range system only when adequate land is available to ensure desired stocking
density to avoid overcrowding. By this point, you might be considering turning your
backyard into a free-range farm for chickens. With half of a plot of land (about 300
square meters), you can reasonably rear up to 200 chickens, free-range style.
Second, in the semi-intensive system, birds are half-way reared in-house and half-way
on the outside.

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Finally, the intensive system requires that the

birds are fully confined to houses either on the
floor or on wire-netting floor in cages or on slates.
Depending on the kind of poultry you are

keeping, there are different kinds of intensive or
semi-intensive housing systems you can create to
accommodate the birds. For example, you can
create a deep litter, half litter, half slats (slated
floors), and battery cage systems.
The deep litter is based on the spreading of straw

or sawdust material in indoor booths. The slated
floor can be slated, iron rod, or wood reapers
used as floor and about 2-3 feet above the ground
level to enable droppings through the slats.
There’s also the combination of the slats and litter system where 60% of the floor is
covered with slate and the rest with litters.
The battery cages are made of metal in a modern system of housing. It is mostly used for
laying hens. Here, rows and columns of identical cages are connected together and
arranged in units as in an artillery battery.
It is important to note that setting up proper ventilation in the poultry housing, as well as
frequently cleaning out manure and dust are most useful to minimise the foul odours
that come with poultry farming. Additionally, cleaning up feed spillage and frequently
changing water to prevent stagnancy are great ways to minimise odours on your farm.
Step 6 – Hire Farm Workers
The size of the farm and the number of chickens will inform the number of employees
you need. Rearing 50 -100 birds can be done single-handedly, while thousands of
chickens would require several capable hands.
Part of the job is keeping records. You need to keep records of everything from feed
consumption rate to water consumption rate even to the mortality rate. The records
come in handy when making future forecasts about your business. You might choose to
hire someone to manage your farm accounts.

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Your accounts need to be intact as well; you don’t want to run into financial challenges.
You have to decide whether you can handle these or if you need help handling them.
Step 7 – Get A Vet
This step can be seen as a follow-up to Step 7. The truth is that your poultry can become
susceptible to bacterial infection, pathogens, and viruses. Therefore, you need the advice
and consultation of a good Vet right from the beginning of your venture.
There are routine vaccinations and medications that farm birds need to stay healthy and
productive. If they don’t get the medications on time, they may not be able to resist
certain diseases. It is not wise to pinch pennies when it comes to hiring a good vet doctor.
In fact, many poultry farms have been wiped out in the past as a result of preventable
diseases. Not doing the needful will see you losing your investment.
The work will not be complete if money never changes hands. You have to think
carefully about how you’re going to get people to buy your product.
When it comes to marketing, first, you need a website. You also need to have social media
pages where you can communicate your brand offering. This is because there are
thousands of prospective clients who can make orders online if you make it easy for
them to do so. In addition, you need to print flyers and other marketing materials.
Most importantly, you need to know who your target market is and where they are.
Hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and others, are places you need to visit and distribute
your marketing materials.
Also, your family, friends, neighbours, and any social association you belong to should
know about your business. Their word of mouth advertising will do your business good.
Step 9 – Poultry Farm Equipment
Depending on your choice of poultry farming, there are several pieces of equipment
needed to have a smooth operation:
A. Incubation Equipment
Incubation equipment is used for hatching eggs for another production process. There
are several types of incubator equipment including setters, hatchers, compressed air
systems, emergency standby electric plants, and hatchery automation.

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B. Egg Handling Equipment

These include hatching egg trays, egg washer, hatching egg transfer machine.
C. Egg Candler
This is a lighting device used for testing eggs; to see the inside of a fertilized egg during
incubation. There are two types: individual and mass candlers.
D. Heaters or Brooder Equipment

These are equipment used to provide warmth and light to rear the baby chicks during
the first few weeks of life. They consist of some heating sources like reflectors.
They are also used to regulate the temperature level on the farm. Examples include; gas
brooder, stove, infra-red bulbs, reflectors, guard, heaters, and so on.
E. Feeding Equipment
There are numerous kinds of equipment used in feeding
the birds. They come in different shapes, styles, and
designs. There are automatic feeders, linear feeders,
circular feeders, and small grit boxes.
F. Water Equipment
Just like there are several feeding equipments, there are
also watering equipment for supplying water to the bird.
They include water basin, pan and jar type, nipple
drinker, manual drinker, etc. Of course, it is important to
make sure that you are providing, plentiful clean water
to your birds.
G. Vaccination
For administering vaccine treatments, there are syringes
with needle/vaccine droppers, automatic vaccinators,
and fowl pox vaccinators/lancets.
H. Other equipment and materials
• Beak trimmer: to cut a portion of the beak in order

to prevent cannibalism among the birds
• Chick box: to keep birds who are laying eggs
(continues on the next page)

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• Nest boxes: to get clean eggs

• Weighing balances: to weigh birds or feeds for record and marketing purposes
• Perches/Roost: a wooden device usually kept at a height of about 3-5” from the
floor in order to help the bird to stand over it.
• Ventilation Fan: to control the temperature inside the farmhouse.
• Rake: made up of iron rods and fitted with wooden handle. It is used to rake the
litter material in case of a deep-litter system of rearing.
• Sprinkler: to cool the surroundings and roof of the farm during hot weather
• Sprayer: for spraying, disinfectant or sanitizer in the farm area.
• Flame-gun (blowlamp): To rid the building of external parasites as well as their eggs
or larvae.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Poultry Farm?

We have discussed several materials, equipment and techniques in this chapter. But just
how much will all of it cost? Here is our financial breakdown:
Registration
Farming Requirements
2. Farmland: varies with size and location.

3. Birds–
• Chickens :
o Broiler Chicks: N200 – N390 for a one-day-old chick
o Layer Chicks: N170 – N280 for a one-day-old chick
o Cockerel: N20-N50 (white one-day-old chick); N100 - N200 (black one-day-old
chick)
o Noiler (broiler and cockerel hybrid): N140 - N270 for a one-day-old chick
• Ducks: N630 – N700 for a one-day-old duckling
• Turkey:
o Local Turkey: N470 - N750 for a one-day-old chick
o Foreign Turkey: N1,600 - N2,200 for a one-day -old chick
• Guinea Fowl: N400 – N650 for one-day old keet
4. Poultry Feed: N100 – N200 per kg (one chick of 0-8 weeks of age will consume about
40 g/day)

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5. Poultry housing structure –

• Poultry Cage: N50,000 – N120,000 for a cage that can house up to 110 birds (varies
with brand and durability).
• Pen House Construction: N200,000 – N500,000
6. Vet Doctor: N8,000/consultation (this is negotiable). The vet will let you know when to
vaccinate and alert you to anomalies in your poultry’s behaviour.
7. Farm Equipment:
• Incubator: N47,000 – N680,000 (price varies with egg capacity and brand)
• Individual Candler: N2,000
• Pan (for feeding and water): from N300
• Nest boxes: from N35,000 for at least 90 birds
• Poultry Weight scale: from N7,000
• Ventilation Fan: from N15,000
• Rake: from N400
• Sprinkler: from N3,000
• Sprayer: N1,500
• Flame-gun (blowlamp): N6,000 – N20,000 (varies with size and power)
8. Vaccination:
• LaSota Vaccine: N3,500/5000 doses
• Newcastle Disease Vaccine: N1500 /1000 doses
Other Requirements
10. Hosting a WordPress website for your poultry. Bluehost offers a basic plan for new
websites:
There you have it, all you need to start a poultry farming business! It is important to start
small in order to test the waters and minimise waste. It is also important to keep the
health of your birds at the forefront of your mind. With hard work and a little self-
confidence, success is within your reach.

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CHAPTER 24: FILMMAKING BUSINESS

Nollywood is one of the booming sectors of the entertainment industry in Nigeria and is
rapidly penetrating the global space. If you’ve ever wondered about investing in a billion-
dollar industry, the filmmaking or filmmaking business is an excellent choice.
Also, movies and documentaries do well because storytelling grabs people’s attention in a
split second. If you have a talent for telling compelling stories and an interest in sharing
truth, filmmaking production (i.e. processes of storytelling with film) might be for you too.
That said, the filmmaking business is not a walk in the park. After watching a good movie,
have you ever sat down to think about the work that went into it? If you have, you’ll have
realized that some level of experience is required to properly explore the opportunities in
the film industry.
Whether you are a film student or just someone who wants an idea of how film
production is done in Nigeria, this chapter will provide a breakdown of how to run a
successful filmmaking business.
This chapter serves as a self-contained crash course on how to make your own films while
also providing tips on how to gain the practical experience you need to be successful.

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How To Start A Filmmaking Business In Nigeria

You will need to work through the following steps to produce your first movie.
Step 1 – Watch A Lot Of Movies
You might have seen a lot of movies but you’ve obviously been watching them for fun
and entertainment. If you want to produce your own movies, it is crucial to watch other
people’s work and to critically analyse it.
When you discover that a movie is a blockbuster, study what makes that film tick: its plot
development, originality, and the settings used. Take notes on scene entrances, camera
direction, dialogue, techniques used to build tension and suspense, as well as casting
choices.
In addition to studying blockbuster movies, also study movies that didn’t really do well
on the market. This is a great way to learn what mistakes to avoid and what not to do
when you begin to produce your own movies. Look out for the storyline errors,
continuity errors, camera errors, marketing errors, casting mistakes, and the likes.
Furthermore, YouTube is a good place for you to learn. Visit YouTube and watch as many
behind-the-scenes as possible. There are some things you’ll learn in the behind-the-
scenes that you might never find out when watching the finished movies.
Step 2 – Read Other People’s Scripts
A compelling script is often a game-changer. Although you may have conceived stories
with good plots, it is important to learn how to translate these ideas into scripts. Reading
a lot of scripts written by great artists can help with this.
Reading other people’s scripts is also one of the fastest ways to learn how to direct a
movie. Study the scripts and don’t be ashamed to act out or direct some scenes on your
own. The ability to rehearse is a huge plus. See yourself in the scripts, put yourself in the
position of the directors or producers, and act accordingly.
Step 3 – Enroll In A Movie Academy
The benefits of enrolling in a movie academy far outweigh the drawbacks. First, a movie
academy equips you with the skills to take your natural talents or interests to the highest
level. Second, you will be able to meet actors and producers with whom you can work
with, exchange ideas, and network.

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Moreover, you might be given the opportunity to be

featured in movies or to learn first-hand from a
successful filmmaker.
Nonetheless, not every successful filmmaker

attended a movie academy. Some learned through
trial and error, others through self-teaching, and
yet others from online courses. If, however, an in-
person movie academy is within your reach and no
budget constraints, it would be a shame not to go
for it!
Step 4 – Feature In Movies
Many producers you know had been acting for

years before producing their own films. Though
this step is optional, acting helps you gain
experience in filmmaking by teaching you what to
look out for when choosing your cast.
Additionally, if you engage in acting, you will appreciate the actors and actresses that
work with you as a filmmaker or producer a little better. If you are not part of a movie
school, you can join a local drama group that can give you the exposure you need.
Step 5 – Work With Filmmaking Crew
Since you have the aim to produce your own movie, your best bet is to work with
production crews on set. As a business-minded person, you cannot just jump into
filmmaking without first testing the waters. You could work as a camera operator, the
light person, or in any other available roles associated with filmmaking. This would also
be an opportunity to ask questions.
Step 6 – Establish Useful Relationships
This is a very important step to take as you can’t become a movie director without a reel.
You can’t work as a loner in the filmmaking business. One of the best ways to network
and meet people in Nollywood or any other film industry is to attend industry events,
premieres of movies, parties, conferences, conventions, and movie sets.

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Having a good network in Nollywood will make launching your own films easier. Also, if
viable, approach an established movie director for mentorship during your journey.
Becoming a mentee to an established director will most likely give you access to their
network.
Now we are done with the steps to take before producing your own movies. We will now
move onto the steps you need to take when producing your own movie in real-time!
Step To Take When Producing Your First Movie
Step 1 – Register Your Business With CAC And Other Relevant

Associations
First and foremost, register your business with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
Contact ReDahlia at 43B, Emina Crescent Off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos, or
business@entrepreneurs.ng to register your business with the CAC.
In addition to the CAC, there are also several bodies regulating the circulation and
production of films in Nigeria. Some of these include but are not limited to the National
Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Association of
Movies Producers (AMP), Advertising Practitioners Council of Nigeria (APCON), and so on.
Step 2 – Write Down Your Idea
Needless to say, every film you see was once an idea in someone’s head. Filmmaking
involves pre-production, production, and post-production stages. Writing down your
story is one of the major pre-production steps you have to take. These written ideas are
also called script or screenplay.
Without an idea, there’s no movie. In fact, the bulk of the work is developing the ideas
you wish to make a movie from. Most times, ideas pop into our heads when we least
expect them to. You could even be walking down the road and notice a scenario that fits
into a plot you are developing. Therefore, a film producer has to always go out with her
pen and diary. As mentioned earlier, watch a lot of movies and read other people’s
scripts. By doing so, you will discover a better way to pen down your own ideas.
Also, don’t be afraid to edit your script as many times as possible. After a thorough
editing process, the final version of the script is called the shooting script. The shooting
script comprises the description of each character in the movie, the dialogue, technical
details, and so on. At this point, instead of completing the entire filmmaking process, you
could write a script and sell it to a film producer.

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In a similar vein, instead of penning your own idea, you can purchase a screenplay from
a scriptwriter and produce it. Another thing to bear in mind while writing a story is that
not all stories are appealing to your target audience. You will need to carry out proper
research before producing a film nobody will watch.
Finally, it is also imperative to get a copyright for your scripts. You can get that done
with the Nigerian Copyright Commission (NCC).
Step 3 – Sketch Out Your Idea On Storyboards
A storyboard is a sequence of drawings that highlights the shots you plan to film.
Storyboards help you determine things like camera angles, shot sizes, and other
directorial choices. They also help to communicate what you hope to achieve on set to
your crew members.
If you cannot draw, another way to set up your storyboard is to take your friends to your
film locations, direct them to act, or stand in a certain way while you take pictures from
different vantage points with your phone or with a professional camera. You can then
affix the pictures to your storyboard.
A storyboard gives life to your story and by looking at it, you can determine whether to
add or remove a scene entirely.
Step 4 – Select Your Cast And Crew
Getting your team together is one of the decisions you cannot be careless with. When
selecting members of your crew, pick people with proven expertise and experience. If
possible, ask to see some of their past work or a portfolio. Also, don’t forget that your cast
– that is, the actors playing a role in your movie – is one of the factors that will draw a
large following.
When you’re ready to start assigning roles, you will need to post calls for auditions
online. You will then choose the best actors from those who audition. For a start, it is
advisable to bring an expert in movie production to assist with cast selection.
In addition, consider using top-name stars as this will catch the interest of potential
investors. The cost of producing a movie is high so you might need the support of
investors. Also, note that many people purchase a film or go to watch a movie in the
cinema because they are fans of the main actor.

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Therefore, having an A-list actor in your film will be a step in

the right direction. A compelling story and a good cast will
help you gain the interest of an investor.
Step 5 – Choose The Movie Setting
Choosing the setting of your film is a huge task on its own

because you obviously cannot use a single location for all
your scenes. Therefore, you will need to visit different
locations to select the one that suits every scene.
Take a camera with you and do as much traveling as

possible, taking shots of places you think will serve as the
perfect setting for a particular scene. Show the pictures to
the rest of your team and make the decision together.
Step 6 – Start Shooting
Note that filmmaking can be time-consuming, tedious, and

very expensive.
As a matter of fact, a single mistake could cost you thousands or millions of naira. To
produce a film, there are several costs involved: the transportation of actors and crew
members to remote locations, the cost of equipment, actors' salaries, etc.
Bear in mind that the first set of people who should arrive in a set are the lighting crew,
hairdressers, and makeup artists. This is imperative to avoid unnecessary waste of time.
Additionally, ensure that you have a good shoot script ready with an organised schedule
of what will be filmed and when. In the same vein, endeavour not to rush any scene.
Repeat the shooting of a particular scene as many times as you can afford. Sometimes, a
three minutes scene can take up to four hours to film, but the most important thing is
having the best result.
Step 7 – Post-Production
Post-production is the stage during which you edit, filter, and refine the raw footage
into a cohesive creation. This stage involves cutting scenes, adding sound effects, music,
visual effects, colour correction, and so on.

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As a matter of fact, this step is just as important as the filmmaking itself because, without
proper post-production, your film is just a camera footage. This editing is what brings out
the story you are trying to tell. Often, post-production takes a longer time than the time
spent filming the movie.
To properly edit a film, you will need editing software. If you cannot handle the editing
yourself, it is better to hire an expert to do that for you. When you are done with the
editing, show it to several people whose opinion you can trust. It is better to fish out the
errors at this stage than to deal with damages when the film hits the market.
Step 8 – Market Your Film
Another stage of hard work begins after filmmaking. The film production business is
dicey because it is difficult to tell what will catch the fancy of the public at any given
moment. Hence, at this stage, you need to plan ways to get your film to your target
audience. There are several ways to put your films out there, and here are some of them:
A. Release The Film In Movie Theatres
Apparently, this is how to know whether your film will be a blockbuster, a flop, or
something in between. This stage can make or mar the career of a director or producer.
Over the years, aspiring filmmakers have pulled out of the business because of failure.
And not only mere failures, but crippling financial fatigue resulting from taking huge
loans to make movies that don’t do well. With the risks in mind, we must emphasize that
you need to always put yourself in your audience’s shoes before shooting a movie.
Viewers are not concerned about whether or not you spent a lot of money producing a
movie nor about your reputation. The questions in the mind of your target audience are:
Will I enjoy this movie? Will this movie be engaging? Will this movie offend me? Is the
movie worth my penny?
Therefore, before releasing the movie to the theatres, come up with a series of trailers
that answer the questions in the heart of your would-be viewers. If your trailers interest
them, be rest assured they’ll show up to watch your film once it hits theatres.
B. Utilise Social Media
This is one of the best ways to build your target audience. Make the film your cover
image and profile picture across your social media handles. Also, run a sponsored ad for
your trailers across online platforms for broader awareness.

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Also, you could create a personal website for

your filmmaking business and promote your
films through the site. Building a website
nowadays is easier than before. With WordPress,
Squarespace, or Wix, you can get a website
running in no time.
For social media, consider making good use of

Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Vine, YouTube, and
Tumblr.
C. Give Press Releases
Here is another potent way to market your film.

During the press release, give important details
about your new film in the most engaging way
possible. You want to use that moment to appeal
to emotion, humour and diversity. Also, make
sure to talk about yourself as the director and
about your past successes or work. Once your
press release is ready, send it across to as many
media outlets as possible.
D. Get Listed On IMDb
IMDb is the world’s most popular and

authoritative forum for movies, TV series, and
celebrity content.
Therefore, it’s a great resource for you as a film producer. To find out how to get your
film added to the site, visit imdb.com. However, note that an IMDb Pro membership will
cost you $20 a month or $149 a year. Needless to say, the cost is always worth it at the
end of the day.
E. Hire A Professional Marketer
There are some people whose job is to market movies. You can strike a deal with
respected marketers to distribute your film across the country or a particular region, as
you deem fit.

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Step 9 – Share Your Movie With The World
Now it’s time to share your creation with the world and reap the profits! Here are some
ways to share your work and make money:
A. Sell The Television Rights
Producers all over the world make a ton of money by selling TV rights to distribution
networks. For example, the producers of the Game of Thrones series sold their rights to
the HBO network for millions of dollars. In this case, you wouldn’t even have to pay for
marketing costs if you didn’t want to.
B. Show Your Movies in the Cinema
For your movie to be accepted in a cinema, you need to demonstrate that it has the
potential to draw large crowds. If the cinema does not think your movie has this
potential, they can refuse to show your movie and you will miss out on profit from movie
tickets.
C. Video-On-Demand (VOD) Service
Another option is to sell the rights to a video-on-demand service, for example, Iroko TV
and Sceneone TV. The video-on-demand media distribution system allows users without
traditional video devices, like DVD players and TVs, to access video entertainment. VOD
also allows users to enjoy video entertainment without being constrained by a static
broadcasting schedule (e.g. such as on cable networks like DSTV). The three main types of
VOD models are subscription video-on-demand (SVOD), transactional video-on-demand
(TVOD), and ad-based video-on-demand (AVOD). You can adopt any of these three.
• Subscription Video-On-Demand (SVOD): users have access to all the video

content on the VOD platform for a small recurring fee charged weekly, monthly, or
annually.
• Transactional Video-On-Demand (SVOD): users purchase videos on a pay-per-
view basis.
• Ad-based Video on Demand (AVOD): this is a very popular VOD service today. In
AVOD, users are allowed access to all videos on the platform for free, while the
owners of the content generate profit from paid advertisements placed before and
during the videos. An example of a highly popular AVOD service is YouTube.

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D. Mobile Cinemas
Another option is to form your own makeshift

cinema, where you charge people to watch your
movie or do free screenings at art galleries or on
university campuses to raise awareness.
E. Sell Your Movie to Airlines
Airlines regularly buy movies that they know will

entertain passengers during a flight. This is another
avenue to share your work and make money.
Challenges Of Filmmaking In
Nigeria
A. Piracy
The issue of film piracy is still a huge concern in Nigeria. Sometimes, a film that has not
even been officially released to the public can be found online or in the market. In the
past, Nollywood actors have even led a protest in Lagos to condemn the buying and
selling of pirated films.
The truth is that piracy most often results from disloyalty amongst crew members,
marketers, or any overlooked insider. Therefore, to avoid such a drawback, work only
with people you trust.
B. Uncertainty
Filmmaking business is risky because you cannot tell for sure if it will be successful or
not. However, there’s no business without a certain level of risk.
What you can do to increase your chances of success is to create films that are
meaningful to you and your targeted audience. In essence, create the movie you have
always wished existed. As we mentioned earlier, doing this successfully requires
studying movies that have gained traction and noting what you liked and what other
critics liked.

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How Much Will It Cost To Produce A Film?

First, let us take some time to appreciate the enormity of this question. Film production is
a broad field with many specifications. If you decide to include animation, computer-
generated imagery (CGI), stunt choreography, and other movie baubles in your film,
production costs can add up to astronomical amounts of money.
In general, producing a film from scratch can require anything from a few millions of
Naira to hundreds of millions of dollars. However, in this section, we will break down the
costs of a relatively straight-forward indie production.
We also encourage you to let your creativity run free and that you keep doing research
as you develop your filmmaking business.
Registration
Production Requirements
2. In-person Film School/Movie Academy: N80,000/semester at Royal Arts Academy,

Nigeria.
3. Crew –
• Director of Photography/Cinematographer: N70,000 – N300,000/month
• Camera Woman/Man: N70,000 – N300,000/month
• Make-up Artist/Costume Designer: N60,000 – N150,000/month
• Lighting Technician: N65,000 – N180,000/month
• Sound Engineer: N70,000 – N200,000
• Film Editor: N60,000 – N200,000
• Production Manager/Director/Screenwriter/ Set Manager: as discussed in this
chapter, you could fill out these roles yourself for a small film.
4. Actor Salaries: this varies wildly with actor pedigree, movie budget and location.

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5. Filmmaking Equipment-
• Video Camera: N400,000 -N2,000, 000 depending on the make
• Tripod Stand: N10,000
• Lighting Fixtures (you can combine 3 of these fixtures to form a 3-point lighting kit):
a. Open Face Light (with barn doors and light control attachments): N25,000 –
N70,000 (price varies with wattage, bulbs, and attachments)
b. Softbox Lighting (for more diffuse light): N10,000 – N35,000
c. Fresnel Lens lighting (with barndoors; a cheaper alternative to Dedolight but with
much less focus): N27,000
d. Dedolight Optical lens (Optional - to fit on open face light for greater focus):
N250,000
• Shotgun Microphone: N15,000 – N180,000 (varies with quality and brand)
• Rode Boom Pole: N40,000 – N45,000
• Microphone Shock Mount: N3,500 – N4,000
• Audio (XLR) Cables: N8,000 – N10,000
• Multi-Track Digital Audio recorder: N173,000 (Zoom F4 brand) – N1.6m (Sound
Devices 833)
• Hand-held Audio Recorder: N46,000 (Zoom H1-N) – N116,000 (Zoom H6)
• Headphones: N5,000 – N40,000 (price varies with brand and sound-blocking
abilities)
• Light Reflector (24 – 45 inches): N2,000 – N15,000 for 5.
• Computer System: N35,000 – N150,000 for fairly used Windows PC
• External Hard Drive: N24,000 – N28,000 for 1 Terrabyte capacity.
• Camera Bag: N3,000 – N15,000 (varies with size)
• DSLR Shoulder Mount Rig: N70,000 – N150,000 (varies with brand and size)
Post-Production
6. Editing Software: Adobe Premiere Pro (N8,000/month)

7. Social media and Google advertisements: costs vary with scope.
8. IMDb Pro Subscription: N7,700/month or N58,000/year (this option is cheaper on a
month-by-month basis)
9. Professional Marketer: N80,000 – N400,000/month (varies with experience and
pedigree)
10. Host a WordPress Website with Bluehost:
Filmmaking is a lucrative business that anyone with the resources and interest can
explore. In all, make sure to draw on your creativity and network if you hope to thrive.

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CHAPTER 25: BLOCK-MAKING BUSINESS
Block-moulding or block-making involves the mixture of powdered cement, sand, gravel

and water in proportions that after the mixture is poured into block moulds, the blocks
sun-dry with a light grey colour, fine surface texture and strength.
The block-making business began in response to builders’ demands as a way to manage

the stress that comes with building. Essentially, block-making saves construction workers
the time needed to buy sands, water, cement, and labour to mould the blocks.
The block industry business is one of the thriving businesses in Nigeria and the world
today. Unfortunately, despite the necessity of shelter, only a few investors and
entrepreneurs think in this line of business. This is largely because of cultural stigmas that
associate block-building to a lack of education. Nonetheless, the block-making business is
an increasingly viable and lucrative business that thrives in urban as well as in rural
areas.
With the increasing number of building construction going on, block-making businesses
are never going to be too much.

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This is the time to give this business opportunity, which you

might have overlooked in the past, a second glance.
Block-Making Business
Block-making industries produce strong, high-quality blocks
that can withstand many years of wear. Any block that falls
short of this standard, is not good enough for building.
In this business, there is relatively higher demand in the dry

season as opposed to the rainy season. This is because
building construction is most common during the dry season.
Looking at your immediate environment, you will notice that

people are constantly erecting houses, schools, shops,
religious centres, hospitals, factories, and offices. This
explains why this business opportunity is viable.
In this chapter, we will take you through everything you need to know to start your
block industry business.
Creating A Business Plan
To succeed in this business, you need to take basic steps in the initial stages. These are
steps that help you learn the risks of getting involved in the business. In this way, it’s
important to conduct research on the business area, the types of blocks in high demand,
competitive prices, and competition. All of this information is included in a business
plan, which we have come to appreciate so far in this book.
The business plan will help you develop a better understanding of the market and devise
a strategy to succeed. In taking this step, it is important to document the results which
will form your block industry business plan.
Your block industry business plan should outline the following:

• Business Description (continues on next page)

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• Product and Services

• Market Research and Strategy
• Competitor and Marketing Plan
• Operational Plan
• Management and Structure
• Financial Plan and Projection.
You will also need to pay attention to the human resources you need to effectively run
your business.
Register Your Business

Once your business plan has been documented, the next thing to consider is registration
with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). Completing the business registration will
give you access to loans and other opportunities tailored to entrepreneurs. With a
properly registered business, you can bid for contracts from the local, state, and federal
governments, as well as from private companies in an effort to become their block
supplier.
To reduce the hassle of registering the business yourself, ReDahlia is your plug. We can
provide you with all the information and legal advice needed to go about it.
Start-up Capital
Depending on the scale at which you want to operate, block-making can be capital
intensive with start-up capital running into millions. The cost of securing land in a good
location can be on the high side. You will need to gather the raw materials, sink a
borehole, purchase block-making equipment, set aside worker salaries for at least two
months, and so on.
For capital, you can ask for soft loans from family and friends if you do not have enough
capital to start. Also, you can use crowdfunding sites or approach financial institutions
for a loan.
Now, we’ll discuss a step-by-step guide on how to start a block-making business, specific
to the trade itself.

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Step-By-Step Guide On How To

Start Block-Making Business
Step 1 – Acquire Land
You can start a block industry by renting, leasing,

or purchasing land in a new or developing site.
This can be one plot of land or more depending on
what you can afford. This land should not be
swampy or waterlogged because it will affect the
quality of your block and make it difficult for
suppliers and customers to access the site.
On this piece of land, set up a small roofed shed

using planks or blocks, depending on what you
can afford. This shed is to store cement, shovels,
head pans, wheelbarrows, and other equipment.
Next, create a shed where the block-moulding machine and the lister, used to power the
moulding machine, can be operated. The shed can be without walls or side coverings.
The most important thing is a roof that can protect the machine from constantly being
beaten by rain or sun.
It is crucial that your location be easily accessible to cars, trucks, or other means of
transportation. This will ease the difficulty on the part of customers and your workers.
Step 2 – Set Up A Water System
In block-making, you will need water and more water. Water is used to mix the sands
and cement, to mould blocks and to water blocks on a daily basis until they become
strong.
If you do not have a natural water supply like a stream or river, you will have to sink a
borehole or dig a well, and then install tanks to store the pumped water.
Step 3 – Purchase the Right Equipment
Some of the equipment used in a block industry business are:

A. Generator: The Lister generator is usually preferred for block-making.

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It is used to power the moulding machine, borehole, mixing machine, and other power-
consuming equipment in case of an electricity outage. Make sure to get a durable one
that does not consume much diesel.
B. Moulder: This is the tool in which blocks are moulded. It is also called a vibrating
machine due to the noise it makes while moulding. The moulder forms blocks of
different sizes and shapes. It can be constructed by welders or better still, purchased
from manufacturing companies.
C. Wood Carriers: This is a flat wooden plank used to carry blocks from the moulder to
the drying point under the sun where it is arranged in sections. It is constructed by
carpenters to be handled with ease.
D. Supply Truck: Depending on how you are starting, you can get trucks for delivery
services.
E. Concrete Mixer – This is a machine used for mixing sand, cement, and water in the
right proportions.
F. Diesel: About 25 litres to 30 litres every day depending on how long the moulding
machine will be on. You can plan for about 100 litres a week, but make sure to store the
supply in a cool, dry place to avoid combustion.
G. Smaller tools: You will also need shovels, head pans, wheelbarrows, etc.
Step 4 – Hire Labourers
For a standard block industry business, you will need to employ the services of several
people: machine operators, mixers, laborers, loaders, and drivers.
The machine operator handles and operates the machine, the mixers mix the cement and
sand that goes into the moulder, and the laborers move the blocks from the moulder to
the drying point.
You can also employ a cashier or supervisor (optional) if you don’t plan to be on ground
to oversee the day to day operations. In addition, you need a driver who will transport
the blocks to customers in different locations, as well as loaders, who will load and
offload blocks at different points.
In this business, labourers are paid daily based on the number of blocks or the types of
block they make.

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Step 5 – Get Sand And Cement
Sand, cement, and water are the raw materials used for block-making. Start by getting a
supply that can last for a week or more, so you are not short of materials at a crucial
time.
For sand, three kinds are needed for block-making: sharp sand, stone dust, and ordinary
mud sand. These three are then mixed together with cement and water to form the block
substance. You can speak with quarry managers on supply and negotiate the delivery
time.
For the cement, choose the cement that makes for the strongest blocks. In addition, you
could also venture into cement selling since it comes handy with a block industry
business.
Step 6 – Make The Blocks
Once the materials and equipment are set, the next thing is to start making the blocks.
This requires mixing a proportion of cement, sand, and gravel with water.
There’s a certain number of blocks that can be made from a single bag of cement:
• 35 – 40 (9-inch blocks)
These blocks are sold at different prices. Also, look for ways to scale your production
daily to maximise profit. For instance, a typical block moulding machine makes about
5000 blocks in a day. If you had two, that would be 10,000 blocks a day. This will help
you meet the demands of your customers.
Tips On How To Successfully Operate

A. Starting a block business in a developing area close to a busy road is a wise decision.
This way, your first customers will be the builders in the vicinity, and you will be certain
of patronage.
B. Your Number one marketing tool in the block industry business is providing high-
quality blocks. This can be achieved by using quality materials for moulding.
C. Get listed on business directories and register on social media platforms. Also, get a
business card and create business relationships with construction engineers, surveyors,
architectural designers, bricklayers, and other people who deal with site-building.

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D. Deliver good customer service to your clients and pay your labourers appropriately as
agreed to get the best from them. Remember, your workers are your first customers.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Block-Making

Business?
Registration
Production Requirements
2. Block-Making Materials:
• 1 Bag of Cement (50kg): N1,800 – N2,800 (varies with brand, Dangote being most
expensive).
• Clean Granite (20 tonnes): N90,000 – N120,000 (varies with the size of granite grains
in inches. The larger the grains the more expensive).
• Stone Dust Granite (20 tonnes): N60,000
• Gravel (20 tonnes): N42,000
• Sharp Sand (20 Tonnes): N40,000 – N45,000 (varies with silt content. The more silt,
the more expensive)
• Smooth Plaster Sand (20 Tonnes): N45,000 – N50,000
• Laterite (20 Tonne): N18,000 – N22,000 (varies with clay/mud content and colour.
The more clay the more expensive.)
3. Lister Generator (price depending on the kVA):

• Fairly Used: N130,000 – N400,000
• Brand New: N500,000 – N2.5m
4. Local Manual Moulder: N10,000 to N15,000 naira

5. Vibrating Machine (Mechanized Moulder): N100,000 – N150,000.
6. Shed: varies with size.
7. Wood Carriers: N2000 (10 by 25 inches)
8. Supply Truck (optional): from N1.5m
9. Concrete Mixer: N400,000 – N600,000 (400-litre concrete mixer)

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10. Diesel: N225/litre

11. Drilling a Borehole: N130,000 – N550,000 (varies with drilling process and location)
12. Borehole Submersible Pumping Machine: N30,000 (0.5hp) – N800,000 (7.5hp). In
this case, price varies with power of the pumping machine (in horsepower - hp), brand,
durability and coil type. Cheapest isn’t always better. For example, the deeper your
borehole or the more pipes you have in your borehole system, the more powerful (and
the more expensive) your pumping machine must be. Seek the advice of a borehole
engineer to determine the best pumping machine to buy.
13. Water Storage Tank: N21,000 – N30,000 (1200-litres); N45,000 – N55,000 (2500-
litres).
14. Shovel: N1,500 – N3,000
15. Head Pan: N2,500 – N3,000 for a durable steel or galvanized pan.
16. Wheelbarrow: N8,000- N13,000 (price varies with size and brand).
18. Labourers: N35,000 – N45,000 per month (however this should increase with the
number of block output per day)
Block-making is a very profitable business, but it is one that requires due process and
determination. Remember that you can always start small and grow big if you don’t have
any experience in the business.

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CHAPTER 26: PLUMBING BUSINESS
It might surprise you to learn this, but the plumbing business is a very profitable
business. Plumbing is the installation and maintenance of pipes, valves, tanks, and other
fittings in ways that allow for the distribution of potable water and for the removal of
waterborne waste.
During building construction, plumbers run a supply line from the surroundings through
the foundation wall to supply water to the toilets, sinks, bathtubs, showers, and other
fixtures. Also, they ensure that the plumbing fittings we listed in the previous paragraph
are installed according to the building standard codes. The demand for plumbers will
persist for as long as people are erecting buildings. Basically, a good plumbing system is
an essential aspect of any building and even of some open public spaces.
Additionally, apart from building water and sewage systems, plumbing involves
rendering services like fuel gas piping and plumbing drainage venting. Just from this, we
can tell that plumbing is a business that requires expertise. Therefore, you will have to
receive some formal training or apprentice with someone who has the expertise to run a
plumbing business.

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If you are thinking of starting a plumbing

business, stick with us while we dive into
everything you need to know about the business.
Classes Of Plumbers
Before we go ahead into the core steps of starting
your own plumbing business, we’ll discuss the
three different classes of plumbers we have.
A. Commercial Plumbers
Commercial plumbers offer services to schools,

hospitals, hotels, churches, factories, shopping
centres, and other forms of commercial
organisations. They install and maintain pipes of
large public plumbing systems.
Commercial plumbers are highly skilled and qualified professionals. They have a broad
range of knowledge and deal with more pipes and fittings.
B. Residential Plumbers
Residential plumbers tend to serve in residential homes. They install and maintain
plumbing systems in homes, servicing both new sites and old buildings by installing
pipes and fittings making water usage and waste removal easy.
Residential plumbers mostly gain expertise by learning under a master and learn
through hands-on experience.
C. Service And Repair Plumbers
Service and repair plumbers mainly deal with making repairs and maintaining
plumbing systems in commercial and residential settings. They do plumbing system
servicing, carry out tasks like reducing pipe pressure, blocking leakages and unclogging
drains.
They mostly work directly with clients and are responsible for the daily function of
pipes and fittings.

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Now that we have established the types of plumbers and the different kinds of plumbing
services they offer, we’ll go through a general but in-depth step-by-step guide on how to
start your very own plumbing business as a plumber.
How To Start A Plumbing Business
Step 1 – Find Your Niche
To start, you will need to niche down. As we have learned throughout this book, one can’t
be all things to all men. Your power comes from focusing on a particular area – at least
to start – and maximising that market.
Conduct research to find out what kinds of plumbing companies exist in your
community and what they do. From this research you will be able to determine the most
lucrative plumbing services to offer, what gaps you can fill with your business, and what
resources you will need to get started.
After conducting this research, you should be able to decide if you want to operate as a
commercial plumber, residential plumber, or as a service and repair plumber. This
decision is very important because it will determine the type of training you need to get
and the resources you need to begin.
Step 2 – Get Training and Experience
To operate a plumbing business, prior knowledge of plumbing is required. You can gain
this knowledge by taking formal plumbing courses or through a more informal
apprenticeship.
One option to get started is to become an apprentice with a plumbing company. This
apprenticeship can be for a duration of six months to several years. It depends on how
fast you can learn. Alternatively, you can take courses online or enrol in vocational
schools.
Plumbing services can only be provided by professionals and the only way to become a
professional is to get trained.
Step 3 – Plan Your Business
Once the training phase is completed, you want to sit and plan how to operate the
business. Everything about the business, what you hope to achieve, and how you hope to
achieve them should be documented in a business plan.

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A business plan is a roadmap for your business.

It involves documenting goals, vision, target
audience, market plans, and the best model for
the business.
As we’ve detailed before, a viable plumbing

business plan should have the following outline:
• Vision and Mission
• Market Research and Strategies
• Management Team
• Pricing and product
• Equipment
• Financial Plan and Projections
• Marketing Strategies
Step 4 – Start-up Capital
The start-up costs needed to start a plumbing business vary based on location,
experience, and type of plumbing service. For instance, in a case where you do not have
any background training in plumbing, you might have to employ an experienced expert
who will do the job while you take care of the administrative work. This might prove to
be quite expensive and will sharply increase your start-up costs.
Essentially, start-up capital should be able to cover office set up, cost of labour,
registration, licenses, equipment, marketing, and other logistics.
If you don’t have the finance to start this business you can apply for loans from financial
institutions or look for business partners who can finance the business while you bring
the plumbing expertise.
As an entrepreneur, the first step to structuring your business is registering it with the
Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
To register your business, log on to the CAC website and follow the due process, or reach
out to ReDahlia. ReDahlia makes business registration seamless and will guide you
through every phase of your business through their consultation services.

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Securing an office is the next step once the registration process has been completed. This
is the best way to become an authority in the business and become accessible to clients.
If you also want to sell plumbing equipment, you must ensure that your shop is located in
a place where your products and services can easily be seen by passers-by. In addition, if
you offer plumbing services, your office should be accessible to clients and should also
be situated close to the sites and homes you plan to work.
Step 7 – Hire Plumbers And Other Staff
Depending on the kind of plumbing service you want to offer, there might be a need to
hire other plumbing experts who will work with you. They could work part-time (when
you have to complete a big task) or they could stay on full-time. Also, depending on the
scale, you may need to hire administrators and sales personnel, who will handle
bookkeeping, customer services, and other day-to-day upkeep.
Another area you can venture into in the plumbing business is to start a training institute
where you train other prospective plumbers. However, you will need to become a
certified agency to do that.
Step 8 – Buy The Plumbing and Office Equipment
There are several pieces of equipment needed to operate a plumbing business.

Regardless of the niche you want to target, here are the basic tools needed:
• Pipes and fittings
• Buckets to store fittings
• Pipe wrenches
• Reciprocating saw
• Circular saw
• Whole hog right angle drill
• Cordless screw gun
• Propane torch
• Cast iron pipe cutter
• Extension cords
• Pipe dope/Teflon tape
• Trucks

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Step 9 – Market Promotion
Due to the competitiveness of the plumbing business, there is a need to aggressively

invest in marketing in order to become visible. Effective marketing involves the
identification of your target audience and where they can be found. Once you know
where to find your target audience, you can run targeted online and offline advertising
that will generate leads.
Referral marketing also works like “magic” in the plumbing business. You can create a
referral package where clients get a discount on their next job for any successful
referral. Customers will gladly refer you to their friends and family if you do a good job.
Furthermore, to stand out, get some branded marketing materials like business cards,
flyers, and brochures that you can distribute. You can use these materials to advertise
and promote your business at any opportunity.
Another great option to get the word out is to partner with other artisans like
electricians, engineers, or contractors with construction companies. They can reach out
to you when your services are needed on any job they are doing.
Additionally, you want to invest in a website that is optimised for search engines as well
as visibility on social media platforms. If you have the funds, you can also invest in
traditional advertising like billboards, radio, and TV.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Plumbing Business?

In this section, we will break down the start-up costs required to launch a medium-scale
plumbing business in any of the 3 plumbing classes.
Registration
1. Business registration: N20,000 with ReDahlia
Training and Tools
2. Plumbing Training: N180,000 for 6 months (full-time) or 1 year (part-time) at Living

Spring College of Technology and Innovation, Osun State
3. Plumbing Equipment –
• Pipe Fittings:
i. PVC Pipes: from N500 – N7,000 (varies with length and width)
ii. Steel Pipe: from N20,000

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• Buckets to store fittings: N1,000

• Pipe wrenches: N1,900 (10-inch wrench) – N6,000 (24-inch wrench)
• Reciprocating saw: N19,000 - 6.5 AMP; (Available on Yaoota)
• Circular saw: N15,000 – N100,000 (varies with brand and size)
• Hole Hawg Right Angle Drill: from N100,000
• Cordless screw gun (4V): N8,000 – N10,000
• Propane torch: from N10,000
• Cast iron pipe cutter: from N140,000
• Pipe dope/Teflon tape: N550 for (12mm x 10 m)
• Safety Glasses: N700 – N1,000
Office and Staff
4. Plumber (part-time or full-time): N45,000 – N85,000/month

5. Sales and Administrative Personnel: N45,000 – N65,000
binders, and so on.
7. Office Space: varies broadly with size and location.
Other Requirements
8. Plumbing Magazine: As a plumbing business owner, you want to stay abreast of new
technologies, and techniques. Aim to read industry-related magazines to stay updated
on industry trends all over the world. Plumber Mag; Plumbing and Mechanical; and
Plumbing Trade Magazine all offer free subscriptions to their magazines.
In this chapter, we have established that the plumbing business is profitable but, it's a
business that requires training for true credibility. If you are interested in starting this
business, follow the steps we have outlined here and start your plumbing business right
away!

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CHAPTER 27: CASSAVA FARMING
We’ve discussed several agricultural businesses in this book, from oil-palm cultivation to
rice farming. But did you know that cassava farming is one of the most profitable
agribusinesses in Nigeria? Cassava serves as the source of livelihood for millions of
farmers and is a primary staple food to over 800 million people worldwide.
Cassava also happens to be the third-largest source of food carbohydrates in the tropics,
after rice and maize. It is rich in vitamins, carbs, and calcium and is used for producing
food products like garri, flour, tapioca, fufu, chips, and others.
One interesting fact about the cassava plant is that it can either be planted alone or
together with other kinds of crops like maize, groundnuts, vegetables, and rice. In
general, there is a ready market for cassava and its farming is not as labor-intensive as
some other food crops.
If you are searching for a profitable agribusiness to invest in, cassava farming is a good
option. In this chapter, we will highlight everything you need to know to start your very
own cassava farming business.

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All About Cassava

Cassava (Manihot esculenta) also called manioc,
mandioca, or yuca is a plant extensively
cultivated in the tropical and sub-tropical regions
of the world.
It is a major source of calories and carbs widely

consumed in developing countries. Also, it is a
good source of dietary fiber, rich in vitamins,
calcium, phosphorous, thiamin, folic acid,
manganese, potassium, and other important
nutrients.
Nigeria is the world’s largest producer of cassava.

In 2017, Nigeria produced 59 million tons of
cassava, making about 20% of global world
production. While Nigeria is the largest producer,
Thailand is the largest exporter of cassava, with
most of its produce going to Europe. Nigeria, on
the other hand, exports about 3.2 million tons
annually and earned up to $136 million in 2013
from cassava exports.
Uses Of Cassava
All parts of the cassava plant are useful in different ways. For instance, the leaves are a
nutritious vegetable rich in protein. Also, fresh cassava roots can be processed into
different food products, like chips, for human consumption, and for local/export
markets. These tuberous roots can also be used for cassava flour, bread, tapioca, garri,
fufu, laundry starch, and alcoholic beverages.
Furthermore, unpeeled roots can be grated and dried for use as animal feed, while the
stems can be sold for planting. Beyond food, cassava can be processed industrially and
used for paper-making, textile adhesive production and high fructose syrup.
Now, let’s explore the steps you need to follow to start a cassava farm.

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How To Start Cassava Farming Business
Step 1 – Business Registration
Business registration is essential in running a business in Nigeria. The Corporate Affairs

Commission (CAC) is an authorized business registration agency in Nigeria. You can
decide to do a business name registration, or private limited liability company depending
on the ownership structure.
You can log on to the CAC website or reach out to ReDahlia. ReDahlia offers business
consultation services and will proffer solutions to business challenges you may be going
through.
Step 2 – Business Plan
Creating a business plan for your cassava farm will help you gain access to grants, bank
loans, and other government financing opportunities available to farmers.
Like most other business plans, a cassava farming business should include the following
outline:
• Industry Overview
• Vision Statement
• Roles and Responsibilities
• SWOT Analysis
• Market Analysis
• Sales and Marketing Strategy
• Publicity and Advertising Strategy
• Financial Projections and Costing
• Sustainability and Expansion Strategy
Step 3 – Start-up Capital
If you were worried about finding the capital to start farming, as we mentioned before,
the Nigerian government makes money available to farmers. The government, through
the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), provides loans to farmers in many different fields of
agriculture. Therefore, you should absolutely take advantage of this opportunity and
apply for these government grants to start your cassava farm.

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Also, you can reach out to private investors or even family and friends who might be
interested in investing in your farm. A strong and detailed business plan will help you
source for funding if you do not have enough funds to start. Check out the complete
guide on Entrepreneurs.ng on how to write a business plan.
Step 4 – Buy Farming Equipment
The capital we just discussed will be used for land acquisition, land preparation, hiring
farmhands, working tools and equipment, cassava stem cuttings, operational costs, and
marketing. Here are some of the farming and cassava processing equipment you want to
purchase:
• Tractor
• Soil cultivator
• Plough
• Cassava planter
• Truck
• Cassava harvester
• Cassava peeler
• Cassava washer
• Cassava grating machine
• Cassava sieving machine
• Cassava drying machine
• Wheelbarrow
Step 5 – Select a Good Location For Your Farm
In all agribusinesses, the choice of farmland is very important. Cassava is usually

planted in deep, well-drained loamy soil, in regions with adequate rainfall and
warm/moist climatic conditions. This is because loamy soil is rich in nutrients, low in
gravel, and easy to till.
Therefore, before settling on a piece of land for cassava farming, do a soil test to
determine the texture and the richness of the soil. However, in a case where you don’t
find land that is fertile or rich enough, you can use the following fertility treatment to
improve the amount of soil nutrients:
• Apply manure, organic/inorganic fertilisers to the land

• Practice mulching - covering the soil surface with plant materials.
• Plant cassava with other food crops like maize, rice, vegetables, and legumes. These
crops will fix nutrients in the soil and will improve the yield of your cassava harvest.

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Step 6 – Select The Cassava Variety To Plant
There are several varieties of cassava planted by farmers. Some of the major ones are
TMS 30110, TMS 300017, TMS 30555, TMS 30001 and TME 419. Your selection strongly
influences the overall yield.
Depending on the type of soil and climatic conditions, some cassava varieties are known
to grow fast or be resistant to pests and diseases and are widely accepted by the masses.
Consequently, in choosing, be sure to do additional research on the best crop variety for
your situation.
Also, no matter the cassava variety you settle on, it should come with good food quality,
be "cook-able", grow fast, have good ground storability, and be tolerant of pests and
diseases. With these factors in mind, some of the basic things to check for are:
• Starch content and dry matter: The percentage of dry matter in cassava roots
determines the quantity and quality of the products obtained after the roots are
processed. The higher the percentage, the better. Also, the cassava variety with
higher starch content and which bulks up early is better because they are able to
make up for losses in storage root yield which results from weed competition, leaf-
feeding pests, or disease. For instance, TME 419 is the best variety that meets these
requirements.
• Tolerance to weeds, pests, and diseases: Cassava varieties that are tolerant of
weeds, pests, and diseases tend to be the ones that grow and branch early. They are
able to expand their branches and leaves rapidly to shade the ground and prevent
weeds from growing.
• Edibility: The storage roots of edible cassava can be cooked without processing and
is sweet. Non-edible cassava is bitter. You might want to focus on cultivating readily
edible cassava.
• Ground storage capacity: Good cassava varieties can remain in the ground
without getting spoilt, damaged, or decayed until it is time for harvest. Taking this
into account is crucial to maximise your yield and profits.
Step 7 – Select Healthy Cassava Stem Cuttings
Cassava stem cuttings are used to grow cassava crops, and they have a great impact on
the growth of the plant. A healthy stem can reduce the spread of pests and diseases and
can improve the yield of the plant.
Cassava stem cuttings can be gotten from other farmers or from the market. After you’ve
been farming for a while, you can begin to get cuttings from your own farm.

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Note that cassava stem cuttings taken from the top green portion of stems or extreme
bottom of stored stems might not be suitable. This is because they might dehydrate
quickly and produce unhealthy sprouts. Also, they might easily become infested by pests
and diseases.
Step 8 – Plant The Cassava Crop
Before planting, you need to consider the land tillage method, the seedbed type, the time
of the year, and the method of preparation. Planting should be done when the soil is
quite wet, after the beginning of the raining season.
When it comes to the actual planting of stem cuttings, you will need to cut each stem to a
length of at least 20 – 25 cm, each with about 5-8 nodes. Planting of the cassava stem
cutting can be done either vertically, horizontally, or at an angle to the soil surface.
• Vertical Planting: This is the preferred mode of planting during the rainy season
so that cuttings don’t begin to rot in the constantly wetted soil. On the other hand,
during the dry season, vertical planting may result in dehydration of the exposed
cuttings.
• Horizontal Planting: Plant cuttings are embedded down to 5-10 cm below the soil
surface. This is especially true in dry climates. The benefit of planting a stem
horizontally is that its multiple stems can sprout from the nodes, yielding more
tuberous roots. However, these roots will be relatively small if the soil is not loamy
and rich.
• Inclined Planting: In this method, cuttings are planted at an angle of around 45

degrees, leaving 2 – 3 nodes exposed above the soil surface. The angle of the stems
and roots provides leverage for a relatively easier harvest.
In general, you want to plant the cuttings in mounds or in ridges early in the morning or
late in the afternoon when the weather is coolest to prevent dehydration of the crop.
Additionally, you also want to push the cuttings well into the earth when you plant,
leaving only 2 or 3 buds above the ground. When the soil of the mounds gets too hard,
break it up with a hoe, so that water and air can get in to nourish the roots.
After planting, depending on the soil type, you may need fertilizer to boost production, as
earlier discussed. The fertilizer can be applied after about 8 weeks of planting in a ring
that is 15cm - 20cm wide, with the cutting at the centre. It is important that the fertilizer
does not stay too close to the cassava stems.
Finally, it might be best to replace all cutting that do not bud within 2 weeks of planting.

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Step 9 – Weed, Disease and Pest

Control
Weeds, pests and diseases can stunt the growth

of cassava.
When it comes to weeding, it is important to

weed when the cassava plants are 20 – 25
centimetres high (about 3 - 4 weeks after
planting), then again 1-2 months after the first
weeding. Herbicides can also be very useful
when applied in moderation.
In addition, diseases like mosaic and rot can

greatly reduce your yield. Therefore, you must
take special care that you do not plant cassava
cuttings that have been infested.
Also, control pests like rodents and insects by using insecticide, laying traps (non-fatal
ones, if possible), or digging deep ditches around the cassava plantations.
Step 10 – Harvesting
Cassava can be harvested as soon as the roots have gathered a sufficient amount of
starch and have become large enough. This is usually about 7 to 12 months after planting.
Before harvest, you must remove the upper parts of the stems along with the leaves.
Next, harvest the roots by hand by pulling on the lower part of the stem so that the roots
come out of the ground. Manually or mechanically remove the roots from the base of the
plant. Care must be taken to minimize the damage to the roots.
During the harvest, cassava stems cutting are made for the next planting season. The
cuttings are best stored in a dry, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight to
prevent desiccation.
Of course, any business that wants to grow beyond its locality must invest in market
promotion and advertisement.

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Depending on the scale at which you want to operate, you can build a website and
leverage internet and social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and
YouTube to promote the business.
Print business cards, flyers, and handbills with a unique logo to be distributed in your
surroundings. Also, as the brand continues to grow, make sure all facilities and
equipment are branded.
6 Digital Tools That All Cassava Farmers Should Know

About
We bet you didn’t know there were so many tools at cassava farmers’ disposal. Make use
of any of these helpful digital tools to increase your knowledge of the business and
maximise your profits!
A. Cassava Matters Site
The Cassava Matters website (cassavamatters.org) is a vast information bank for

farmers, researchers, and other stakeholders in the cassava sector. Developed by the
International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), this platform contains titbits that
can help you improve yields, manage weeds, and handle both cassava processing and
marketing.
1. The Cassava Matters website is also home to the Cassava e-Market, an online
marketplace for cassava and cassava-related commodities. The e-Market is a multi-
seller avenue for cassava farmers to advertise and find buyers for their produce.
2. Additionally, the Cassava Matters YouTube channel is fantastic for more visual
learners.
B. Akilimo Paper and Mobile Application
Akilimo tool was developed by the African Cassava Agronomy Initiative (ACAI) of the
IITA. It is an all-in-one advisory tool that provides cassava farmers with knowledge and
recommendations to improve their cropping systems. These recommendations also
happen to be based on the results from field trials in over 5,000 farmers’ fields.
1. In all, after answering some questions and letting the GPS on your mobile phone read
your location, you get customised, site-specific advice on fertilizer application, tillage
regime, and best planting practices.
2. Akilimo also exists as a paper-based tool, mobile app, or as a component of Viamo’s
3-2-1 service. In the third option, just dial 3-2-1 on any mobile phone with an Airtel
sim card, to get free information on cassava agronomy up to 10 times in a month. No
internet or special education needed. You can download the paper version on the
Cassava Matters website.

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C. IITA Herbicide Calculator
This is a mobile app developed by the IITA’s

Cassava Weed Management Project (CWMP)
(ACAI). It has already been embraced by many
cassava farmers in Nigeria, Tanzania, and in other
African countries. Basically, it helps you become
more precise in your farming by calculating the
right amount of herbicide to apply to your crop,
thus limiting the economic losses and
environmental pollution arising from overdosage.
This app is also available on the Cassava Matters
website.
D. Cassava Seed Tracker
This web-app, developed by a team at IITA-Nigeria,

supplies knowledge on the essential features for
seed-stem production and on where to access the
best stem cuttings of improved varieties from
accredited seed producers. The Seed Tracker has a
map-based feature that helps users easily locate
information on seed sellers or buyers. It’s available
for android phones on the Google Play Store.
E. Farming on Radio
Farming on Radio is a radio program and a veritable gold-mine of agronomic

recommendations. The program is aired on the Nigerian stations: Splash FM (105.5 FM),
Harvest FM (98.9FM) and Amuludun FM (99.1FM) in three languages: English, Tiv, and
Yoruba respectively –
1. The Ibadan-based Splash FM airs Farming on Radio every Wednesday at 7.00 PM –
7.30 PM and also makes it available for online streaming.
2. The Benue-based Harvest FM, the program (conducted in the Tiv language) airs at
1.00 PM -1.30 PM every Friday.
3. Amuludun FM airs the Yoruba version every Tuesday at 5.00 PM – 5.30 PM.
(Note that these radio schedules might change in the future).

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F. GoSeed Tracker
Developed by the IITA Business Incubation Platform (BIP), the GoSeed Tracker is a
program for tracking (in real-time) cassava seed production, planting planning, farm
registration, harvesting, quality assessment, and so on. The GoSeed tracker also allows
cassava seed producers to network and communicate with each other. If you are looking
to incorporate commercial seed production into your business, this is a great tool for you!
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Cassava Farm?

3. NAFDAC Registration Number (if you intend on selling processed maize products) –
businesses.
Farming Equipment and Planting Material
N300,000
5. Quality Hoe, Shovel, and Cutlass: N1500 – N3,000 each.
6. Harvesting or Planting Farmhand (1): N54,900 /month or N25,000 part-time
8. Cassava Stem Cuttings: N450 – N500 (per bundle of 40 stems)
9. Cassava Planter: from N360,000
10. NPK Fertilisers: N13,000 – N14,000/ 50 kg

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11. Driver and truck rental to transport produce: N71,000/month

12. Cassava Harvester (for mechanized harvest): N189,000 – N400,000 (varies with
brand, features, brand)
13. Wheelbarrow: N8,000- N13,000 (price varies with size and brand).
Processing Equipment
14. Processing Equipment –

• Cassava Washer and Peeler: N350,000 - N730,000 (varies with size and brand)
• Cassava Peeler Alone (Semi-Mechanized): N70,000
• Cassava Grating Machine: N100,000 - N305,000
• Cassava Sieving Machine: N150,000 – N270,000
• Cassava Dewatering/Drying Machine: N160,000
• Cassava Grinding Machine: N70,000 – N150,000
Other Requirements

Cassava farming can yield a huge profit if the right variety is cultivated with good farm
management skills. If you’ve taken note of the factors discussed above and plan to
incorporate the tips and tools we’ve included in this chapter, you’re on to a promising
start!

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CHAPTER 28: PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS

Photographs contain snapshots of precious moments in our lives. People like to pull out
pictures or photo albums to remember loved ones and cherish old memories. If you are
fascinated by the visual arts and by telling stories through images, the photography
business might be the best bet for you.
Thanks to smartphones, now anyone can take pictures anywhere. However, one can still
differentiate between a picture taken with a smartphone and one taken by a
professional photographer. The superior quality of the latter is evident. This is why
many people still expend money on photoshoots and why the demand for
photographers will persist.
In Nigeria, particularly in cities like Lagos and Abuja, weekend parties and house
celebrations are extremely common (only slightly less so with the pandemic). As an
aspiring photographer, this is one of many markets you can explore.
In addition, the photography business is a business you can start from the comfort of
your home and take with you wherever you go. As your business grows and you begin
to explore other markets, you can decide to set up your own studio!

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In this chapter, we’ll go through a comprehensive guide that will help you start your own
photography business from scratch.
How To Start Photography Business
Step 1 – Choose The Niche That Inspires You
Determine the type of photography that catches your fancy. Do you like portraits? Or do
you prefer documentaries, abstract imagery, or landscapes? The first step in making
your business a success is to take your time when choosing your niche. Photography is
not only about shooting with cameras; it also requires a good dose of inspiration. Once
you find your inspiration, stick with it for as long as you can. This is what will keep you
going and ensure success in the business.
A good way to find your inspiration is by sampling your interests. If you love attending
events, you could start with event photography. Alternatively, you could begin with
nature photography if you are a lover of nature and the outdoors.
Any business that wants to succeed must first develop a workable business plan. A
business plan is a detailed document containing the objective of your photography
business and the strategy you intend to employ to achieve them.
Actually, the success or failure of your business can be predicted just by reading your
business plan. Basically, your business plan should contain the following:
1. An overview of your photocopy business
4. SWOT analysis
5. Market research
6. Your strategy
7. The team
8. A marketing plan
11. An appendix

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To get a good camera, lighting, and other

photography equipment, you will need a
significant amount of money. Hence, a detailed
business plan can help you secure funding
from investors, venture capitalists, or any
creative funding opportunities that come up.

With the CAC
The Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the

recognised body in charge of business
registrations in Nigeria. It is advisable to start
your business on a structured level because the
advantages far outweigh the disadvantages.
One of the benefits of registering your business with CAC is that you can open a
corporate account with your registration certificate. In the photography business like
others, customers feel safer paying into a corporate account than a personal account.
You can either register a business name or a limited liability company.
The business name is the best choice for sole proprietors just starting out. The tax
implication is low and you can upgrade to a limited liability company as your business
grows. To begin, visit CAC’s portal to search for the availability of your chosen business
name. This is important because it will save you from building your reputation as a
photographer on someone else’s name.
If you don't want to go through the stress of registering the business yourself, ReDahlia
is your plug.
Step 4 – Get A Good Camera
Once you’ve decided on the type of photography you want to start and registered your
business, the next step is to invest in a good camera. This is the main piece of equipment
you need to begin a photography business. A few years ago, there was a huge gap
between compact point-and-shoot cameras and more professional DSLR cameras in
terms of image capability and price.

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But today, an aspiring photographer can easily get budget-friendly mid-pro mirrorless
cameras that can take great pictures. Of course, you can hire a camera for your business
if you cannot afford one immediately.
Step 5 – Acquire Photography Skills
Once you get your camera, master how to use it. Starting photography is not just about
purchasing a camera. There are other salient skillsets to learn before you can be
considered a professional photographer.
Enrol in a photography academy or workshop. With training, you will learn all you need
to succeed in the business, from configuring the best camera settings to framing rules to
photo editing. Training will greatly lower the risk of costly mistakes and low-quality
work.
Also, you can always find a friend, colleague, or acquaintance who is a professional in
the photography business to learn from. Tag along with this person when they have a
shoot. Check out how they make use of the camera, their pricing, editing style, and even
how they interact with their clients.
An imperative aspect of photography is lighting. This single factor can make or mar your
business. A good photographer must learn about indoor and outdoor lighting.
If you are just starting out and you don’t have access to studio lights and slave flashes,
you will be at an advantage if you can read the direction of the light and manipulate it
using props such as DIY light filters and reflectors. This will allow you to manually create
highlights, shadows, and silhouettes within a single scene.
Learn Composure
In the photography business, the number of pictures you take is not what draws
prospective clients to you. In fact, people go for a photographer with the best picture
quality.
Therefore, before taking your shots, study the scene and the subject before you capture.
By doing this, you will always take your shots from the best angle. Composure is a skill
you have to continuously practice before you can gain mastery of it.
Step 6 – Practice
As we just discussed, practice is vital in learning any new skill. You cannot become a pro
in a day, because growth and mastery take time.

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Once you’ve been able to wrap your head around the photography business, start taking
photographs and show it to both amateurs and professionals to get their opinion. This
helps you understand what you are doing wrong and what areas you are strongest in.
It is important not to rush the learning process and also to refrain from comparing your
progress to others. Trust your unique process and learn at your own pace.
Step 7 – Get A Studio Space For Your Photography Business
You can decide to start your photography business by taking outdoor shots only or you
can take it a step further by renting space to set up a studio for customers who want to
do photoshoots.
Step 8 – Promote Your Photography Business
This is another crucial aspect of securing your success. No matter how professional or
talented you are, nobody will patronise you if your marketing strategy is poor. You can
start by distributing flyers and connecting to professionals who can recommend you to
potential customers.
Here are other tips that will help you promote your photography business:
A. Volunteer For Shooting A Local Event
If you are just starting out, nobody knows how good your photography skills are. The
best way to showcase your abilities is to offer freebies. Approach event planners to shoot
at their events for free. Interestingly, some people still offer to pay a stipend even when
you volunteer.
At the beginning of your photography business, your focus should not be on money
because once you acquire your customers, they will be happy to pay for your services.
Therefore, if you have anyone you would love to work with, the best way to get them to
look your way is to offer freebies.
B. Create A Unique Style For Your Photography Business
There are several photographers who are good at what they do. Therefore, you need to
have a style that will make you unique. For example, you can devise a sleeker customer
service model than your competitors, whereby you send personalized notes and bonus
images to both new and loyal customers. Anyone can copy your business idea but no one
can replicate your customer service. In simple terms, find out what your competitors are
not doing and offer it to your clients.

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Another way to be unique in your photography

business is to have a creative logo that speaks
volumes about your expertise. It will surprise you
that a prospective customer may decide not to work
with you because they don’t want your unappealing
logo to appear on their pictures. Thus, ensure your
branding is appealing enough to your prospective
customers.
C. Attend Events And Network
Be deliberate about attending events that will help

you meet your prospective customers one on one.
When attending such events, don’t forget to go with
your business cards and brochures containing your
past jobs.
D. Referral
In the photography business, it is easy to get

referrals from a satisfied customer. All you need to
do is nurture good relationships with your existing
customers and encourage them to refer you to their
friends, colleagues, and families.
E. Set Up A Website For Your Photography Business
Your website should serve as one of the online portals where you post images from all
your successful jobs. Just by visiting your website, prospective clients should be drawn
in by your work and develop an interest in contacting you.
F. Use Social Media To Your Advantage
Another potent way to push your photography business is to have a strong social media
presence. Over 80% of your prospective customers have at least one social media
account. With that in mind, it is a fantastic idea to open an account on the various social
media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, Tumblr, etc). In addition, run
targeted ads on various platforms.

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G. Sell Your Images Online
There’re so many outlets online where photographers can sell their images. Many people
are in need of pictures to use for their blogs, presentation, branding, and other
commercial needs. To use your high-quality images, they would be okay with paying for
them. You can sell your pictures on your website, Adobe Stock, Shutterstock, Alamy, Etsy,
Fotomoto, Crestock, 500px, and others.
How Much Will It Cost To Start A Photography

Business?
To start a photography business, you will need quite a few pieces of equipment. We
detail these financial requirements below:
Registration
Photography Equipment
2. A Good Camera. A DSLR (digital single-lens reflex camera is a favorite amongst

professionals and amateurs alike. Here are 2 affordable models suitable for
photographers of all levels:
• Nikon D3500. Sensor: APS-C CMOS; Megapixels: 24.2MP; Lens mount: Nikon DX;
Screen: 3-inch, 921,000 dots; Continuous shooting speed: 5fps; Max video
resolution: 1080p. Price: From N160,000.
• Canon EOS Rebel T7 / Canon EOS 2000D. Sensor: APS-C CMOS; Megapixels: 24.1MP;
Lens mount: Canon EF-S; Screen: 3-inch, 920,000 dots; Continuous shooting
speed: 3fps; Max video resolution: 1080p. Price: From N120,000.
3. Tripod Stand: N10,000

4. Lighting Fixtures (you can combine 3 of these fixtures to form a 3-point lighting kit):
• Open Face Light (with barn doors and light control attachments): N25,000 –
N70,000 (price varies with wattage, bulbs, and attachments)
• Softbox Lighting (for more diffuse light): N10,000 – N35,000
• Fresnel Lens Lighting: N27,000

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5. Light Reflector (24 – 45 inches): N2,000 – N15,000 for 5.

6. Computer System: N35,000 – N150,000 for fairly used Windows PC
7. External Hard Drive: N24,000 – N28,000 for 1 Terrabyte capacity.
8. Camera Bag: N3,000 – N15,000 (varies with size)
9. Backdrops: N5,000 – N25,000 (varies with size and design)
10. Backdrop Stand Set: N20,000 – N25,000
11. Props: from N3,000
12. Editing Software: Adobe Photoshop (N3,800/month)
13. Photo printer: N69,000 – N840,000 (price varies broadly with brand, size of photos,
features and ease of operation.
Other Requirements
14. Host a WordPress Website with Bluehost:


The photography business can be incredibly rewarding. Don't hesitate to try!

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CHAPTER 29: PRIVATE SECURITY BUSINESS

A private security company is an organisation set up to protect life and property. It is a
business corporation that provides armed and unarmed security services to private and
public clients.
Basically, these companies offer advanced security services towards proactive prevention
of unauthorized/illegal activity, fire and theft prevention and other services as demanded
by clients.
Beyond being proactive, private security companies use equipment like CCTV to monitor
day-to-day activities within clients’ premises. Also, they provide guard and patrol services
such as bodyguards, parking lot and security guard services.
If you are interested in setting up a private security company, this chapter contains all the
information you need to set up a successful security outfit.

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Security Companies In Nigeria

Security involves using different kinds of protective measures to safeguard life and
property. While the government ensures the safety of Nigerians as a whole and makes
the country habitable, a private security company safeguards individuals, events, and
organisations.
Security companies operate in different areas and provide services to a wide range of
people. They work to protect their clients from fire, theft, vandalism and terrorism and to
contain other dangerous or criminal activity. They also complement the security services
provided by the Nigerian police, Department of State Security (DSS), the Nigerian Civil
Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other government security bodies in Nigeria.
Their services can be tailored to the needs of high net-worth individuals, politicians,
religious leaders or organisation figureheads.
Let’s take a look at the steps you need to take to start a private security company in
Nigeria.
Step-By-Step Guide On How To Start A Private Security

Company
The first step in any business is to state the aims and objectives of your idea in a business
plan. Doing the research to complete this step will give you insights on everything that
this business entails. Of course, as you read through this chapter, you will learn what
topics are viable to explore in your business plan.
Step 2 – Get Certified
Operating a standard private security company requires that the business be registered
with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), that you acquire appropriate insurance
coverage and that you obtain all the licenses needed. This is not the kind of business you
can only dabble into. You will need to ensure that you and your company are covered
legally.
To start, you need to register (with the CAC) as a limited liability company with certain
share capital as stipulated by the government. You can complete this registration for
yourself or hire the services of ReDahlia to help with the process.

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Secondly, proceed to the Nigerian Security and Civil

Defence Corps (NSCDC) for a license. NSCDC is
responsible for licensing, supervising and
regulating every Private Security Company in
Nigeria. This is in line with the Nigerian Security
and Civil Defence Corps Act No. 2 of 2003 and the
Amendment Act of 2007.
To register with NSCDC, log on to their official

website, verify the documents needed to register
and start the registration process. The basic
documents you need to register with the NSCDC
are:
• Statement of account
• Letter of attestation
• Letter from a legal adviser
• Proposed salary Structure
• Tax Clearance certificate
• Photocopies of certificates of incorporation
• Proposed training programme
• Certificate of incorporation from CAC
• Memorandum and Company Articles of Association
• Payment of N500,000
• Letter from Bankers
• Personal history of Directors
Step 3 – Get The Training
The quality of service rendered by a security company largely depends on the technical
knowledge and efficiency of the security personnel. This type of business is service-
based and not product-based. Therefore, your service delivery depends almost
exclusively on the personnel you hire. Their conduct will determine how long the
business will survive.
For that reason, you need to have a training plan in place for your personnel. You can
organise the training yourself or attend training sessions conducted by the government.
By participating in security training, you and your staff will gain knowledge on how to
effectively protect clients and handle security items. These items include stun guns (as
private security is not permitted to carry real guns in Nigeria), batons, tasers, and so on.

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Also, you and your team will learn self-defence tactics, disarmament tactics and other
skills that are useful in the security business.
In addition, you can hire professionally certified and licensed security consultants or
security management companies to organise specialised training sessions for your
personnel. Because they are professionals, they will enlighten you on the different
techniques and gadgets you need to run a sleek, efficient business. Furthermore, they
will help you structure your company by educating your management on the standard
documents, forms, policies, procedures, manuals, etc.
It is also advisable to work with a standard security company for at least six months
before you start your own company. This way, you will gain hands-on experience on
what the business is all about.
Step 4 – Carve A Niche For Yourself
Security companies offer a wide range of services. During your research, you will
discover the areas with the most potential. Your vision and passion should also guide you
in choosing a niche. Also, you can start with one area and expand into other segments as
your business grows.
The various niches you can choose from are:

• Business Security
• Event Security
• Patrol Services
• Vehicle Security
• Bodyguard Services
• Surveillance Video-monitoring Centre
• Family Security
• CCTV Operator
• Door Supervisors (Bouncer)
• Usher
• Traffic Operatives.
All of these services depend mostly on the capital and the size of your company.
Step 5 – Location
For your security company to be accessible to clients and personnel, you need to be
strategically located. When it’s time to sign new contracts with clients or to conduct
interviews, your office must be both accommodating and accessible.

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This does a lot for your credibility as a company.
Step 6 – Hire
It goes without saying that a security outfit cannot be singlehandedly operated. You will
need to hire and train individuals who are fit in body, soul and mind. Due to the
sensitivity of the business, your employees, who will function as security or bodyguards,
must not have any criminal background. They must also be of age before they are
authorised to carry weapons.
To hire, engage the services of an HR company or conduct the recruitment yourself. You
also need to establish potential employees’ credibility by conducting background checks
before signing anyone on. Remember, they are the face of your business.
After hiring, train your employees and closely monitor their temperament and progress.
Remuneration should be industry standard and will help boost their morale to better
discharge their duties.
Step 7 – Get Equipment
Your niche determines the kind of equipment you will procure. However, the basic needs
for any security outfit are:
• Walkie Talkie: This will serve as a means of communicating with other security
operatives during a job. Apart from walkie talkies, you can use a mobile phone or
microphones.
• Writing Material: A notebook and pen to record activities relating to the office, in case
of visitors, accidents, or theft.
• Digital Camera: In the absence of CCTV, a portable digital camera can be a good option
for documenting important activities.
• Tool Belt: This will enable the officer to have their hands free.
• Other equipment includes stun guns, digital display systems, vehicle tracking, CCTV
surveillance, batons, pepper spray, hand gloves and so on.

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Step 8 – Branding
For a security company in Nigeria and anywhere in the world, branding is essential.
Starting from the name of the company, your logo and social media pages to uniform
colour, everything must send a message. For instance, your brand name should be
simple, short and unique, but must also depict your business services and appeal to the
public.
In the same vein, NSCDC guidelines require that the uniform of a private security
company must be unique and original in design and must not bear any resemblance to
any uniform of the armed forces or any other existing security company. Therefore,
your uniform should be unique and professional. The guards should have a pair of boots,
customised shirts, trousers and face caps with your logo displayed.
Moreover, you will need to have a website in order to

create brand awareness and to gain access to the global
market. As you grow, you can create more branches of
operation in other major cities and towns.
Step 9 – Get Comprehensive Insurance

Coverage
Running a security company is a very sensitive business

because it concerns the protection of life and property.
Therefore, to manage the effects of an accident or the
impact of unplanned loss, it is important to get a
comprehensive insurance plan. The insurance should
cover commercial general liability, personal and bodily
injury, fire damage, legal liability, medical liabilities and
so on.
Step 10 – Reach Out To Clients
Getting clients can be challenging in the security business owing to the number of private
security companies out there. Therefore, you need to prove yourself credible in all areas.
You can create brand awareness through different channels. Start by designing flyers,
business cards, social media pages and creating eye-catching and personalized content. In
addition, invest in billboards, television and newspaper advertisements. They will go a
long way in creating awareness for your brand.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start A Private Security

Company?
Going through the entirety of this chapter, we can see that starting a private security
firm will be no light feat, in terms of both time and money. In the list below, we have
broken down all the financial investments you can expect to make to start a strong
company.
1. Business Registration: A security firm must be registered as a limited liability

company (and not a business name) with 10 Million share capital - as of the time this book
is being written. You will need to get a quote from ReDahlia's legal team.
2. NSCDC Licence: N500,000
3. Personal History Statement Form from NSCDC (one form required per director):
N100,000/form
Security Equipment
3. Walkie Talkie: from N10,000

4. Digital Camera: from N50,000
5. Surveillance Camera: N8,000 for 1-way CCTV camera
6. Tool Belt: N7,000
7. Defensive Tools
• Stun Gun/Taser: from N8,000
• Extendable Baton: from N5,000
• Pepper Spray: N2,500 – N5,000
8. Security Flashlight: N3,000 – N7,000

9. Uniform –
• Tactical Boots: from N5,000 per pair on Alibaba.com
• Customized shirts: from N11,000 for 20 pieces
• Trousers: N2,500 for one pair
• Face cap: N3,000
Employees
10. Security/Bodyguards: N30,000 – N100,0000

11. Secretary: from N80,000/month
12. Cleaner: N30,000 – N60,000/month

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Office and Branding
13. Renting office Space: varies with size and location.

14. Office Furnishing: from N250,000
binders and so on.
16. Marketing Material –
Insurance
Professional Indemnity Insurance (insurance to cover professional negligence

resulting in public liability and damage): N1million – N5million/year (varies with
number of employees and scope of business).
So, there you have it! With the steps outlined in this chapter, you should be well on your
way to legally operating a highly lucrative private security business.

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CHAPTER 30: LIQUID SOAP BUSINESS

As long as we exist, the demand for liquid soap and other washing agents will persist.
Nowadays, every office, school and restaurant bathroom has a container of liquid soap
that makes cleaning up and maintaining good hygiene convenient.
However, the high demand for liquid soap has caused many to venture into the business,
thereby creating stiff competition. As a matter of fact, some people no longer purchase
their soap from retailers and instead, prefer to produce it themselves for personal use.
Therefore, if you are looking to start a liquid soap business at this time, you will have to
devise an unusual banding strategy that will give you an edge over the competition.
In this chapter, we will discuss the chemicals you need to make liquid soap, the
procedures for making it and the best ways to market your liquid soap to maximise
profits. This guide is for anyone who wants to run a liquid soap business on a professional
level.

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Steps Involved In Starting A Liquid Soap Production

Business
An investor can predict the success or failure of a business just by reading its business
plan. A business plan contains detailed information on how you intend to run your
business. It includes thorough feasibility studies and the marketing strategies you want
to explore.
To register with the CAC, you will need a valid ID card, personal details, passport
photograph and signature. To start, visit CAC’s website to check for the availability of
your chosen name. This is because there is a possibility that your desired business name
has been registered by someone else.
For an easier approach to registering your business, one of the firms you can trust is
ReDahlia, located at 43B, Emina Crescent Off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos. Your location is
not a barrier as you can send them your details via email and your certificate will be
delivered to your location once it is ready.
Step 3 – Get A Space For Your Liquid Soap Business
This step is optional if you are starting on a small scale. The liquid soap business can be
done from the comfort of your home, where you can package it and sell it to your
customers.
However, if you are starting on a large scale, you may need to rent a facility for your
production. Moreover, if you plan to sell as a wholesaler, running the business from
home would not appear professional and appropriate. Nonetheless, another option is to
produce the soap at home and deliver it to the retailers yourself. Whatever you decide,
make sure to set up in a place with a source of clean water.
Step 4 – Obtain Liquid Soap Ingredients and Production

Materials
The next thing to do is to purchase your liquid soap ingredients. High-quality ingredients
lead to high-quality products. At this point, it is important to get the right proportion of
ingredients as these also play into the quality of your products.

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Here are the basic materials needed for the

production of liquid soap:
1. Hand gloves
2. Containers (plastic bottles)
3. Nose mask
4. Stirring Rod
5. Large bowls
6. Tablespoons
7. Measuring cup
And here are the ingredients combined to

make the soap:
• Sulphonic Acid
• Caustic Soda
• Soda Ash
• Nitrosol
• Texapon
• SLS (Sodium Laurate sSulphate)
• STTP (Sodium Tripolyphophate Sulphate)
• Perfume
• Citric Acid
• Colouring
• Water
If your business location is in Lagos, the best place to get these ingredients is Ojota
Market. There, you can tell them the amount of soap you want to produce in litres and
they’ll provide you the soap ingredients in the appropriate measurements.
Step 5 – Produce The Liquid Soap
Once you have your ingredients, the next step is to begin production. In this section, you
will learn the procedures for producing 40 litres of liquid soap.
Ingredient Proportions
1. SLS: 6 to 16 teaspoons
2. Antisol/Nitrosol: 480 grams
3. Soda Ash: 245 grams
4. Texapon: 10-20 teaspoons (continues on the next page)

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5. Sulphonic Acid: 2 litres

6. Caustic Soda: 165 grams
7. Water: 35 litres
8. Citric Acid/Sodium Benzoate: 7-15 teaspoons (optional)
9. STPP: 14-20 teaspoons
10. Colouring: As Desired
11. Perfume/Fragrance: As Desired.
Method of Preparation
1. Get 2 litres of water and soak the caustic soda in it for 30 minutes or more to
ferment. Alternatively, you can soak the caustic soda overnight as this will make the
soap glitter.
2. Dissolve the soda ash in 2 litres of water for 1 hour or more
3. Get a big bowl and add the sulphonic acid into it. Next, add Texapon and perfume.
4. Pour 6 to 8 litres of water into the mixture and stir very well for 10 minutes. Make
sure to add the water slowly to ensure that the mixture doesn’t become too watery.
5. Dissolve STTP with 4 tin milk cups of water and stir.
6. Get a separate bowl and dissolve SLS with 4 tin milk cup of water and stir.
7. Get a bigger bowl that can contain all the mixtures you have made so far and turn
the Nitrosol (dry) into it then add 8 to 10 litres of water. (In place of Nitrosol, you can
use Antisol. However, Antisol would require two days soaking before use.)
8. After the Nitrosol dissolves, turn the dissolved sulphonic acid, texapon and
perfume into it and stir vigorously
9. Add the dissolved caustic soda into the mixture and stir
10. Add the dissolved soda ash and stir.
11. Add the dissolved STTP and stir.
12. Pour the dissolved SLS into the mixture and stir properly.
13. Add 10 teaspoons of citric acid (dissolved in water) and stir.
14. Dissolve your colour in water and add to the mixture.
15. Leave the mixture for some hours for the foams to disappear before packaging.
Step 6 – Package The Soap
The packaging is incredibly important in this type of business as this is what

differentiates you from others in the saturated liquid soap market. You will need to
purchase plastic containers of different sizes.
The prices of the bottles differ depending on the size and design you go for. If you are
starting on a small scale, you could begin with used pet bottles and reuse them as many
do.
264
Thereafter, you can purchase special bottles and then print a label that’ll be wrapped
around it.
Importantly, if you are producing on a large scale, you will need to get a NAFDAC
registration number. Otherwise, your production process can be halted, and your
products banned from circulation. However, if you are producing for personal use, you
do not need to deal with NAFDAC.
Step 7 – Promote Your Business
There are recognised liquid soap brands Nigerians have come to trust. If you want them
to bypass those brands and choose yours, you will need to do a lot of marketing.
One of the strategies you can employ to invade the market is to use the price penetration
strategy. Obviously, the liquid soap business is profitable. You can make up to N15,000
from N5,000 in liquid soap production. Therefore, you can reduce your prices and
approach supermarket owners to act as resellers for your product.
Also, advertise to everyone in your neighbourhood and encourage them to tell their
friends about your product. Preferably, offer them a commission in return. That will
motivate them to refer their friends.
Furthermore, take advantage of online stores like Jumia, Konga, Etsy, etc. Create an
account with these platforms and reach your audience through them. One important
thing to note is that the quality of your soap will either draw prospective customers or
repel them. Therefore, take time to produce the best quality soap that can be found in the
market.
Other ways to market your liquid soap include:

• Create a social media presence (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Pinterest, etc).
• Give freebies to prospective customers.
• Connect with engaged couples and event planners to suggest your product to them
as gift items for their party packs.
• Place an advert in local newspapers.
• Share handbills and flyers.
• Reach out to hotels and restaurants for supplies.

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Things To Note When Starting Liquid

Soap Production
1. Some of the chemicals used in producing liquid soap
are harmful to the body. Therefore, it important to be
cautious during production. Cover your nostrils and
wear protective covered clothing while working.
2. When purchasing chemicals, part of it may

accidentally leak away and this could lead to significant
financial losses. Therefore, treat the chemicals and the
containers in which they come with utmost care.
3. Before adding colour to your mixture, make sure the

colour is completely dissolved in the water. Otherwise,
uneven patches of the colour will show up on your soap
and that’s not good for business.
4. Ensure that your soap is not too watery. Keep an eye

on the water you add and make sure the amounts follow
the recipe.
5. Don’t overuse the chemicals. Ensure you have accurate measurements; it will ensure
the quality of your liquid soap every time. Moreover, your product needs to be safe for
home use.
Functions Of Liquid Soap Chemicals
• Soda Ash works as a neutraliser and builder for the soap.

• Caustic soda serves as the base for soap production. It also functions as a stain
remover.
• Sulphonic acid works as a foaming agent
• SLS is a foam booster.
• Nitrosol helps in thickening the soap.
• Citric Acid is needed for the preservation of the liquid soap and helps it maintain its
foaminess and viscosity (thickness) and neutralises moulds. If your liquid soap starts to
change colour after a few days, this might be as a result of Formalin (an alternative to
Citric acid as a preservative).
• STTP is also a builder and helps to soften the water used and to suspend the oil in the
soap.
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How Much Will It Cost To Start a Liquid Soap Business?

Actually, the required capital depends on the size of your business. If you are starting
small, you can begin with as little as N10,000. If you are starting on a large scale, you can
start with a start-up investment of N500,000 to N1,000,000. For large scale production,
you have to factor in the cost of rent, salaries, transportation, and registration.
In this section, we break down exactly where your money needs go when starting your
medium scale liquid soap business from scratch.

2. NAFDAC Registration Number –
• Micro-Scale (1 - 9 workers): N20,000
• Small-Scale (10 – 49 workers): N40,000
• Medium/Large Scale (50 and above workers): N80,000
Packaging
3. Customised Labelling: from N1200 for 200 pieces

4. Label Printer: N45,000- N65,000
5. Professional Soap Containers: from N75/piece on Alibaba.com
Soap Ingredients
6. Sulphonic acid: N1,600/litre

7. Caustic Soda: from N9,000 for 25 kg bag
8. Soda ash: from N12,000/ bag (50 kg)
9. Nitrosol: N2,000 (for 100 g)
10. Texapon: N1,900/ 500 g
11. STTP: N6,000/ 25 kg bag
12. Fragrance: N800
13. Citric Acid: N342/kg
14. Colorant: N900/100g
Production Materials
15. Weighing Scale: from N2,500

16. Disposable Hand Gloves: from N3,700 for 100 pcs
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17. Nose mask: from N3,000 for 50 pcs

18. Stirring Rod or Wooden Spoon: from N200
19. Large bowls: from N300
20. Measuring cup and Spoon Set: N2,500
21. Scissors: N200 – N500
Other Requirements
22. Renting a Production Space: varies with size and location of space.
One great thing about this business is that it does not require any formal training. With
the basics we covered in this chapter, you already have a strong foundation! Now, what
is left to you is to develop and execute a good sales strategy and to maintain a high-
quality product.
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CHAPTER 31: HAULAGE BUSINESS

The demand for haulage services is on the rise in spite of the number of haulage business
companies in Nigeria. This is as a result of business activities which require logistic
solutions for moving items in bulk from producers to consumers or from sellers to buyers.
Unlike before when customers had to wait for several days or weeks before their goods
arrive, the narrative is changing, and the relevance of the haulage industry is becoming
more and more evident. Today, the haulage and logistics business is a lucrative area to
pursue simply because many businesses in many sectors require hauling services on a
regular basis.
Haulage Business
Haulage is the process of transporting goods from one location to another by road or rail
with the use of large vehicles like trucks, trains, tippers, trailers, vans, lorries, buses, and
cars. It is a business that involves moving or hauling commercial goods.
The haulage business differs from the Logistics Business we discussed in Chapter 6 in that
haulage usually refers to the transport of large-sized articles or of goods in huge amounts.
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In fact, items such as furniture, farm products, home appliances, building materials,
natural resources, crude oil, machines, factory equipment, bulk agricultural products,
and so on, are the goods a haulage business involves itself with.
In the following section, we will go through a step-by-step plan detailing how you can
start your very own haulage business!
Step-By-Step Guide On Starting A Haulage Business
Step 1 – Choose A Niche
As we saw in the previous section, the haulage business is a wide business area in which
different sorts of products are transported to the end-user or distributor. In order to
operate effectively, there is a need to carve out a niche for yourself. The niche you
choose will determine your start-up expenses, vehicle specification requirements, and
target clients.
In choosing a niche, some questions must be addressed:

• What kind of product do I want to transport: solid, liquid, or gas?
• Who is my target audience?
• Do I want to engage the service of other drivers?
• Can I travel on a particular route?
As soon as you can answer all these questions, deciding on the transport system and
mode of operation becomes easy.
Besides transporting consumer goods, raw materials, and other natural resources, you
can also engage customers who are moving from one home to another, small producing
companies and traders.
Alternatively, you can venture into the transport of cement, granite, iron, imported
goods, agricultural products, FMCG, home appliances, stationery, solid minerals, etc.
Step 2 – Business Operation
Once you’ve decided on your niche, you will need to decide on the mode of operation.
The following are three major modes of operation in the haulage business:
A. Independent Haulage Company
An independent haulage company solely operates and directs all its affairs itself.
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It employs drivers, sources for customers and clients,

carries out services as requested, and manages the
entire hauling operation from start to end.
For instance, as an independent haulage company,

you can haul products for telecommunication
companies, oil and gas firms, fast-moving consumer
goods companies, whereby you are responsible for
everything included in the daily management of the
business. Note, however, that this mode of operation
can be tough to penetrate since you have to be
credible to earn job contracts.
B. Contractor/Sub-contractor
In this mode of operation, you will partner with a company that manages your trucks,
sources for employees and clients, and pays you a percentage of the profits at an agreed-
upon time.
As a contractor, you earn an almost passive income every month, while your partner
company handles the day-to-day operations of the business. However, you will have to
compromise on certain terms and conditions with the company you are registering with.
C. Leasing Trucks To A Haulage Company
This involves leasing your truck to a company for hauling services. It requires handing
over the truck and receiving a percentage of the profits as agreed. It is very similar to
the contractor mode of operation except that you may be responsible for servicing your
truck.
Depending on your financial capacity and your long-term vision for the business, decide
on the mode of operation that suits you best.
For every business you want to start, there is no substitute for a business plan. A
business plan includes the vision, mission, objectives, goal, financial plan, market
research, and product, etc. In creating a haulage business plan, you will need a list of all
required financial investments as well as a financial analysis of day-to-day operations.
With the business plan, you can pitch your business idea to financiers and investors.
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Business registrations are done with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). You need
to choose a unique and catchy business name related to the services you want to offer,
then decide if you want to do a sole proprietor registration or a limited liability company.
Follow the corresponding procedure on the CAC website.
The haulage business is capital intensive, and the amount of start-up money at your
disposal will determine the number and quality of vehicles you can afford.
With your business plan, you can approach commercial banks, microfinance banks,
angel investors or friends and family for support. In all, ensure that the funds come with
a good interest rate and a flexible payment plan, so you don’t end up servicing the loan
for a long time.
Step 6 – Buy Trucks And Other Vehicles
Hauling truly begins with the purchase of trucks, trailers or heavy-duty transport
vehicles.
A brand new trailer costs about 10 to 20 million naira, while a fairly used one costs about
6-8 million naira. Another option is to buy different vehicle parts separately and employ
mechanics to refurbish a cheap, rundown vehicle.
While deciding on the trucks or trailers to buy, ensure that each vehicle is easily
manoeuvrable, easy to maintain, and that it does not consume too much fuel.
Step 7 – Fulfil Regulatory Requirements
Besides the business registration detailed in Step 4 of this list, your haulage business
needs to fulfill certain legal requirements, including payment of taxes and having
insurance coverage. Also, you will need to obtain the required licenses for your vehicles
and drivers. These licenses might vary according to the region of operation in Nigeria.
In case of bad roads, it is advisable to get insurance for your vehicles as soon as they are
purchased. This is to limit the financial losses in case of an accident or theft.
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Permits Required to Operate a Haulage Business (Lagos State

Regulations)
i. Vehicle License: This license is acquired with the license plate during vehicle
registration. It applies to every vehicle your company owns, including motorcycles.
ii. Driver’s License: applies to each rider.
iii. Road Worthiness Certification: applies to every vehicle in your fleet. Provided by
the Lagos Computerised Vehicle Inspection Service (LACVIS).
iv. Rider’s Identification Card: This is not a driver’s license, and you can get one from
any of the Lagos State Motor Vehicle Administration Agency (MVAA) regional offices.
Every motorcycle rider should have one.
v. Lagos State Driver’s Institute Permit/Certificate: applies to each rider.
vi. Local government and Inter-state Vehicle Permit:

Both intra-state (within state/local government) and
inter-state registrations can be done at any local
government office in Lagos. Make sure to obtain the local
government sticker of where your business is situated.
This is especially important if registration was done in
another local government.
vii. Stage Carriage/Hackney Permit: According to the

Lagos State Road Traffic Law, this document is required
for all operators of vehicles that carry goods and
passengers.
viii. Finally, you will need to obtain a licence to operate

as a courier service company from the Courier
Regulatory Department of the Nigerian Postal Service
(NIPOST).
Step 8 – Staff The Business
A haulage business requires a certain number of human resources to effectively operate.

Besides truck drivers, you will need marketing and administrative staff with excellent
communication skills.
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Remember, the overall success of your business is largely dependent on your drivers.
You must be careful not to hire reckless drivers who abuse intoxicants like alcohol or
drugs. The conduct of your drivers directly relates to the frequency of accidents and can
jeopardise the brand you are building if you make the wrong choice.
Step 9 – Source For Customers
Since you have narrowed down to a particular niche or niches, you can easily identify
clients and understand their needs. For instance, if you intend on hauling fast-moving
consumer goods (FMCG), start by writing down a list of companies that produce
consumer goods, then devise a strategy to reach out to them.
Be sure to present yourself and your business as credible and reliable. Once you get a
contract, deliver on your promises. Finally, develop a strategy to retain existing clients
and plans on how to get new ones.
Step 10 – Delivering Service
Owing to the number of haulage companies in Nigeria today, you have to stand out by
delivering quality services. Ensure that customers’ goods are delivered on time and in
good condition every time.
How To Maintain Haulage Business Company

Like other businesses, there are downsides and risks to the haulage business. Your
challenges could include bad roads, dishonest drivers, and a lack of vehicle maintenance.
When it comes to your heavy-duty vehicle, find out the engine capacity with respect to
the weight of the goods it can carry. It is advisable to stick to a certain number of goods
and containers so you don’t overwhelm the flatbed of your truck and reduce its lifespan
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Also, in case your vehicle breaks down, get professional mechanics who can properly
maintain the vehicles. If you treat your truck like a business, you will make sure that it is
properly maintained.
In addition, create a unique logo that conveys the brand message. People remember a
company with a vibrant, unique logo. In the same vein, you want to build an online
profile by creating a website and social media pages. All of these platforms must
exclusively talk about your haulage company and services.
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How Much Will It Cost To Start a Haulage Business?
Registration and Permit Requirements
1. Business registration with the CAC: N20,000 at ReDahlia.

2. Commercial Vehicle License –
• Tippers and Lorries: N3,750
• Tankers, Trucks and Luxury Buses: N6,250
3. National Driver’s License: N6,350 (application fee)

4. Lagos State Driver’s Institute Permit/Certificate (specific to Lagos): from N2,000
5. Road Worthiness Certification: N8,300 – N11,800 (varies with capacity of truck)
6. Local government and inter-state Vehicle Permit: vary by local government.
7. Standard Number Plate: N12,500
8. Weighing and Registration (may not be required): N5,000
9. Stage Carriage/Hackney Permit (Lagos State Road Traffic Law) –
• Commercial vehicles for goods above 3 tons: N3,725
• Tankers, Tippers and Trailers: N6,475
• Trucks: N6,225
• Additional Interstate Fee: N3,225
• Motor Vehicle: N4,475 – N8,475 (varies with vehicle capacity)
10. Licence from the Courier Regulatory Department of NIPOST –

• State Coverage: N800,000 (within one state)
• Regional Coverage: N2,000,000 (across several states in a particular region)
• National Coverage: N4,000,000 (across the entire country)
11. Vehicle Branding Permit – LASAA (Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency)
mobile advertising permit for motorcycle.
• Partial Branding: N1,900
• Full/Wrap-Around Branding: N19,000
Vehicles and Equipment
12. Fairly Used Truck: from N2.5 -7 million (varies with size and make)
13. Brand New Truck: N6 million – N13 million
14. Fairly Used Van: from N2 million
15. Vehicle Branding: from N15,000 (though it varies with size)
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Marketing And Branding
16. Fairly used Windows Laptop: Varies based on

model from N35,000 to N150,000
17. Hosting Your WordPress Store: As we first
discussed in Chapter 6, Bluehost, is probably the best
and most affordable hosting provider. It offers a basic
plan for new websites:
18. Marketing: N2,500 – N3,500 for 100 A6 Flyers (one-sided). Additionally, online
marketing is very important in this business; this varies with scope and platform.
Insurance
19. Vehicle Insurance (this is crucial for any company vehicle): from N200,000/year for
a N8 million vehicle. We also advice that you do additional research into the best
insurance companies for your budget and vehicle type.
20. Goods-In-Transit Insurance Cover (required to obtain license from NIPOST):
N500,000
Other Requirements
21. Staff:
• Dispatch Riders: N55,000 – N75,000/month
• Office Manager/Customer Service Personnel: from N70,000/month
The haulage business is a capital intensive and can be risky. However, we think the
rewards are worth the work.
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CHAPTER 32: FISH FARMING BUSINESS

Fish farming is a popular business in Nigeria and all over the world. It’s growing
increasingly popular because of the demand for healthy animal protein. Still, this business
opportunity is yet to be harnessed to full potential as demands for fish outweigh supply.
If you are an aspiring entrepreneur or an investor looking for a viable business
opportunity in which to invest, fish farming is a good option.
Fish Farming In Nigeria
Fish farming, also known as pisciculture, is the cultivation of fish through artificial means
for commercial purposes. It is a form of aquaculture farming (involving aquatic organisms
like fish, molluscs, shrimp, crustaceans, and aquatic plants). It requires breeding and
rearing of fish under controlled conditions within tanks or ponds.
Nigeria is one of the largest aquaculture producers in Sub-Saharan Africa. According to

the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, the fish farming business
was a source of livelihood for over 13,000 people in 2012 in Nigeria. In addition, fish
farming, like other agricultural areas, is encouraged by the government and is eligible to
receive financial support from the federal government and other institutions.
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Fish farming thrives in many parts of Nigeria, especially the Southwest, South, Southeast,
and North Central. The most farmed species of fish in Nigeria are catfish and tilapia,
though Nigeria has an environment that supports the farming of other tropical species of
fish.
A fish farm is considered “well-planned” when the water control structure, pond
compartment sizes, and other management structures complement each other.
Types of Fish Farming
Fish Hatchery
Fish hatchery is an artificial way of reproducing fish. It involves hatching, breeding, and
growing fish throughout the various stages of their life cycle. It also requires the
collection of eggs from injected broodstock. Broodstock (or broodfish) is the group of
mature fish used in aquaculture for breeding purposes. Basically, broodstocks are held in
maturation tanks until their seeds can be used to produce another fish. The eggs hatch
into larvae and subsequently into fry, before growing into fingerlings.
Tilapia Fish Farming
Tilapia is one of the more common types of fish cultivated in Nigeria. It is a warm-water
fish, with a rapid growth rate, and is relatively large compared to other species of fish.
Tilapia fish grow in a freshwater environment such as streams, ponds, lakes but not in
brackish water for the most part.
Catfish Farming
Catfish is the most commonly farmed fish in Nigeria. It can be reared on a small or large
scale. Farming catfish involves creating ponds, breeding of fingerlings, or juvenile to
maturation fish rearing.
Other Kinds
Other common kinds of fish farmed in Nigeria are:

• Ornamental fish or aquarium fish. They are decorative and very colourful.
• Crab: crabs grow very quickly and are in high demand in the market.
• Shrimp: the market demand for shrimp is high. It can be cultivated on a small or a
very large scale.
• Salmon: these are carnivorous and are also reared in commercial quantities.
• Carp fishes: these are omnivorous and are reared in large quantities.
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Now that we have some background knowledge on

what fish farming entails, let’s proceed to our
comprehensive guide on how to start your very own
fish farm.
Step-By-Step Guide On How To

Start A Fish Farm
If you’ve read this far into this book, you’ll know by

now that we value a good business plan. As you can
guess, in fish farming, the business plan is a crucial
part of setting up your business.
Writing a business plan involves carrying out a feasibility study, documenting goals and
objectives, and doing proper market research to learn what is obtainable.
A well-documented business plan can give you access to loans and other financial
support both from government and investors. In writing a fish farming business plan,
the following information needs to be documented:
• Goals and Objectives
• Products and Services
• Location
• Market Research and Strategy
• SWOT Analysis
• Financial Projection
• Size
• Possible business expansion
After the business plan has been created, the next step is to register your business. By
registering your business, you become one of the certified business owners in Nigeria
and can enjoy every benefit tailored to registered businesses.
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You can log on to the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) website and follow the
processes. Otherwise, reach out to ReDahlia, a firm that supports entrepreneurs. ReDahlia
makes CAC business registration seamless for business owners. All you need is to provide
the necessary documents and you will receive your certificate in a few days.
Step 3 – Get Training
Fish farming is a knowledge-driven sector, and to succeed as a fish farmer, you will need
adequate training. Depending on the way you intend to operate, fish farming is beyond
putting juveniles in water and feeding them. It requires some technical skills for you to
get an optimal yield.
Training will help you identify healthy fish, prevent disease outbreaks, understand the
type of medication to administer and when to administer it. Training will also teach you
the right feed and proper ration to feed the fish. In all, training provides you with
practical farming knowledge.
You can receive training under a practicing fish farmer or take some practical courses
from tested training centres. Of course, online courses are still an option, though it is best
to gain hands-on experience.
Step 4 – Location
Since you cannot rear fish in mid-air, you need to acquire land. For fish farming, you can
buy a land, lease or set apart little space in your compound. The size of the space you
need will depend on the scale at which you want to operate. Whatever the scale, ensure
you get a space that can accommodate the pond.
Step 5 – Construct a Pond
Once the location is settled, the next thing is to construct a pond. Fish water ponds are
usually rectangular or circular in shape and vary in size. The choice of the pond depends
largely on the land expanse, location, water resources, the scale of production, and the
purpose of fish rearing.
Here are the different types of fishponds:
A. Earthen Fishpond
The earthen pond is also called a natural pond. To build one, you will need to dig a hole
into swampy clay or in clayey soil with flowing underground water. Digging can be done
manually with shovels and diggers or mechanically with excavators.
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The depth of the pond can be 1.5 meters deep at the shallow end and around 2 meters
deep where the fish are bred. In an earthen pond, fish are bred in an environment
similar to their natural habitat and can accommodate a large number of fish. However,
you must ensure your farm is not in a riverine area to avoid flooding.
B. Concrete Fishpond
A concrete fishpond is a popular choice. It’s made of concrete, blocks, and cement. It is
usually built by a civil/construction engineer in a way such that fish activity can be
closely monitored. It is durable, very hygienic for fish, and is not prone to flooding.
A concrete fishpond is more popular in urban areas and can be constructed below or
above the earth surface.
C. Plastic Tank Fishpond

Plastic fishponds come in different sizes and shapes and can be purchased from tank
manufacturers. They can easily be maintained and used indoors.
To operate a plastic fishpond effectively, you will need to create a
water management system that allows easy inflow and outflow of
water.
Also, a plastic tank pond is cheaper and can be a way to save space.
D. Fibreglass Tank
This tank is transparent and mobile. It is used to breed fingerlings
and fry at a particular temperature before they are moved to the
outdoor tanks.
E. Cage Tank Fishpond

A cage tank fishpond exists in riverine areas. It takes the form of
an enclosed cage placed inside freshwater. Here, fish are reared in
their natural habitat and this helps them grow faster.
F. Synthetic Leather Fishpond

Just like the earthen fishpond, a synthetic leather fishpond requires digging the earth. The
only difference here is that rubber or leather carpeting is used to line the pond walls to
prevent water seepage. These are most commonly used for raising juveniles and
broodstock.
G. Wooden/Tarpaulin Fishpond
This is an artificial fishpond construction. It involves the use of wood on the outer parts
and tarpaulin for inner covering, then an applied coating to prevent seepage.

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Step 6 – Set Up A Water System For Your Fish Farm
Once a fish is taken out of water, it won’t survive for too long. Natural water, free of
chemicals and waste such as obtained from a borehole is considered most suitable for
fish farming. You can create a borehole with an overhead tank as a reservoir.
Also, you should factor in how the water system can be connected to the ponds i.e. water
inlets and outlets. Your water system should be constructed in such a way that
wastewater can be passed out and freshwater supplied on a daily basis.
If wastewater is not passed out and replaced with fresh water constantly, this can lead to
a high fish mortality rate and you may lose your investment. High mortality rates are one
of the greatest challenges in the fish farming industry.
Step 7 – Source for Stock
Fish are stocked in different sizes: fry, fingerlings, post-fingerlings or juvenile.

Do some additional market research and decide on what size of fish to rear. However, the
most common size of fish to grow to table size within three months is the juvenile size
fish. Otherwise, you hatch fish eggs or buy from a hatchery for your pond. Just ensure to
go for the healthiest and most sturdy species of fish.
Step 8 – Feeding
After acquiring the fish for your pond, the next step is to feed them. This is usually done
once or twice daily. In fish farming, what you put in is what you get. For instance, a well-
fed fish can be good for harvest in about 2-3 months.
When it comes to feeding, the size of the fish determines the kind of feed. For instance,
catfish fry in many hatcheries are fed finely ground meal or flour type feeds containing
45-50 percent protein, while larger fingerlings are fed small floating pellets (1/8 inch
diameter) containing 35 percent protein. As they grow, the rations increase.
Furthermore, note that antibiotics can be mixed in their feeding to maintain their health.

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There are two ways a fish can be fed:

• Broadcast feeding: this involves going around the ponds to spread floating feed
for the fishes to eat. It’s mostly done for fingerlings to post-juvenile stage fish.
• Spot Feeding: this requires feeding the fishes at a particular spot in the pond every
time. It can be done 2-3 weeks after stocking the juvenile fish. This way, you can
monitor how the fish are eating.
Note that you must make sure the fishes are not overfeeding as this can result to a
loss in the business.
Step 9 – Harvest
As long as you are feeding the fish well enough, after about 2-3 months they become
marketable. Marketable size farmed fish can be harvested in two ways: from a drained
pond or a filled pond. Additionally, you can do a partial harvest by capturing the largest
fish to increase living space and to make the pond more habitable for the smaller fish.
For general harvesting, it is advisable to start your harvest early in the morning when
the weather is cool. Start draining the water by turning on the draining tap if it is a
constructed pond or using water pumps if your pond is earthen. Next, use a basket to get
the fish out into another prepared basin of water. Alternatively, you can use harvesting
nets.
The market opportunity for the fish business in Nigeria is huge. Nigerians consume about
2 million tonnes of fish every year. Therefore, finding a market for your fish is never
going to be a problem as long as you have created awareness. It is advised to start
marketing before the fish is harvested.
To create awareness, make sure to utilise online platforms as well. Also, approach hotels,
bars, restaurants, cafés, and public event organisers who may be looking for fish
suppliers. Furthermore, reach out and partner with other fish farmers who have a huge
demand beyond what they can cultivate by themselves.
You can also smoke, package and distribute to supermarkets, stores and other small
shops where customers are sure to buy.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start A

Fish Farming Business?
Registration

ReDahlia
2. NAFDAC Inspection of Facility (optional
depending on business model). This varies with the
size of your staff/enterprise; micro-scale (1-9 staff
members), small-scale (10-49 staff members),
medium-scale (50-199 staff members), large-scale
(200 and above staff members)
3. NAFDAC Registration Number (if you intend to sell dried fish goods) –
businesses.
Farming Requirements
4. Fish farming Training: N50,000 for comprehensive training at Dickem Farms

5. Pond –
• Plastic Fishpond: from N20,000 (500 litres)
• Tarpaulin Fishpond: from N50,000
• Building A Concrete Pond from Scratch (3 m x 2.5 m x 1.5 m standard – 1000 fish
capacity with inlet – outlet water system): from N135,800. See Item 6 in the
Appendix for more details on how this value was calculated.

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6. Fish Stock:
• Juveniles: N20 – N25/one (Catfish)
• Fingerlings: N10 – N17/one (Catfish)
7. Drilling a Borehole (optional if pond is at your residence): N130,000 – N550,000

(varies with drilling process and location)
8. Borehole Submersible Pumping Machine (optional if pond is at your residence):

N30,000 (0.5hp) – N800,000 (7.5hp). In this case, price varies with power of the pumping
machine (in horsepower - hp), brand, durability and coil type. Cheapest isn’t always
better. For example, the deeper your borehole or the more pipes you have in your
borehole system, the more powerful (and the more expensive) your pumping machine
must be. Seek the advice of a borehole engineer to determine the best pumping machine
to buy.
9. Water Storage Tank (optional if pond is at your residence): N21,000 – N30,000 (1200-
litres); N45,000 – N55,000 (2500-litres).
10. Fish Feed: from N5,000 for 15kg
11. Bucket and Plastic Drum: N300 - N1,000
Fish farming is a profitable business area regardless of the fish species you cultivate.
Good management and proper monitoring of the fish will contribute to the overall
success of the business.
Also, you do not need billions of cash to start a farm. As long as you can afford to
construct a pond and water system, buy initial juveniles and have enough money to feed
the fish for 2-3 months, you are good to go.

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CHAPTER 33: RECYCLING BUSINESS

In several Nigerian communities, there is still a pressing need for education about waste
disposal. It is not unusual to see someone toss sachets or plastic bottles in the street after
they have finished whatever is inside. This has contributed to the tons of waste all over,
which blocks drainage systems as well as creates public health hazards and eyesores.
Nonetheless, the recycling business is beginning to gain new ground. In fact, an aspiring
entrepreneur can make millions of naira running a recycling business in Nigeria.
If you are considering venturing into the recycling business, you would not only be
running a profitable business, you would also be carrying out community service and
contributing to the cleaning up of the many tons of waste in the environment. In short,
the recycling business is a win-win opportunity for you and the environment.
In this chapter, you will learn everything you need to know about starting a recycling
business, from what it entails to how to start your own.

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What Is A Recycling Business?
A recycling business involves the refurbishment or recycling of waste products or

materials to create new, useful products.
Advantages of Starting A Recycling Business
A. Recycling helps protect the environment

Sometimes, it is easy to forget that even as human beings, we are a part of nature. We’ve
spent thousands of years hunting food and cutting down trees to build our homes and
offices. We might assume that human activity has little impact on the environment.
However, with the information available on the Internet and on social media, we are
constantly finding proof that this is not true. Starting a recycling business would be
environmentally friendly and responsible. Without recycling, waste products end up
burned or landfills where they contribute to further pollution of the environment.
B. Recycling conserves natural resources

Recycling waste reduces our dependence on raw (natural) resources, which are already
massively depleted.
C. It creates job and business opportunities

In recycling, people are employed to collect, sort, and handle machines. Therefore, in
starting this sort of business, you are creating job opportunities for the unemployed in
Nigeria, which will expand the economy.
D. It is profitable
The recycling business is lucrative in Nigeria because the required raw materials are
cheap, and there is a large market for recycled goods. Recycled products, being relatively
cheaper but still of high quality, would be a massive draw for people of all socio-
economic classes in Nigeria.
Steps To Start Recycling Business
Step 1 – Find Your Niche
The major requirement needed to start is to select the recycling business idea that
interests you and start working on it immediately. However, you must know that there is
stiff competition in the recycling business, so you will need to be quite knowledgeable to
have an edge. It is advisable to find a niche that is not saturated but is in demand.

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To achieve this, conduct thorough market research to

investigate what recycling businesses already exist in
your area. Also, find out how they are able to sell their
products and what pricing system they use. Here are
some of the most common recycling businesses in
Nigeria:
A. Waste/Garbage Recycling
This is one of the most popular recycling business

ideas. Waste recycling is the processing of used
materials into new, useful products.
It requires less energy and is a great way of

controlling air, water, and land pollution. You can
recycle waste from homes and businesses by picking
up their trash on a regular basis. Waste items that are
usually recycled include:
• Plastic Waste – This includes water bottles, plastic bags, rubber bags, plastic
wrappers, etc.
• Paper Waste – This includes books, magazines, newspapers, cardboxes, and
envelopes.
• Glass Waste: This includes broken bottles, beer, and wine bottles.
• Aluminium Waste: This includes soda cans, tomato cans, fruit cans, and other
types of cans.
B. Printer Cartridge Recycling
Another fertile recycling business is printer cartridge recycling. New printer cartridges
can be quite expensive, and many people cannot afford them. Hence, recycled cartridges
are the alternative they opt for. A simple cleaning and refilling process will provide you
with a good profit.
C. Tire Recycling
In Nigeria, used tires can be found in almost every street. You can also find them in
landfills. Recycling tires hold great profit potential.
D. Wood/Timber Recycling
This is the process of turning waste timber into usable products. Wood recycling dates
back to the ’90s and it’s still as profitable as ever. You can get recyclable wood from
construction waste, demolished buildings, old furniture, and other similar sources.

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E. Scrap Gold Recycling
Without mincing words, gold recycling is one of the best business ideas to venture into.
Interestingly, gold is easy to melt and does not lose its purity even when recycled
repeatedly. More than that, gold recycling is cheaper and better for the environment
than mining new gold.
F. Electronics Recycling
Not everybody can afford new electronics. This means that there is a sizable demand for
recycled electronics. In this niche of the business, all you need to do is purchase scrap
electronic devices and sell them to recyclers for profit. Some of the electronics you can
recycle include mobile phones, laptops, computers, and television sets.
After selecting a niche, you can either collect the recyclables and sell to recyclers or
recycle them yourself to resell. The former option is great if you don’t have the required
capital needed to obtain recycling equipment and machines.
Step 2 – Create A Budget
The amount needed to start your recycling business depends on the kind of operation
you want to run. At this stage, you will need to factor in money for licensing and permits
because you cannot run a recycling business without these.
Additionally, if you are quitting your job to start recycling business, endeavour to set
aside some amount of money that will cater to your running expenses for at least a year
or two. This is because the profit will not come immediately.
Other expenses to bear in mind when drawing up a budget include:

• Business registration
• Vehicles to haul recyclables
• Storage space for your recyclables
• Employee salaries
• Machineries to process recyclables
• Money to pay people for their recyclables
As usual, at the end of the chapter, we offer a detailed breakdown of the exact monetary
investments you will need to make to start your own business.

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As we have seen, a business plan is a formal document

containing the details of how you will run your
business and achieve your goals within a given
period. With your business plan, you can apply for
funding and grants to start out your business. Check
out Entrepreneurs.ng’s comprehensive guide on how
to write a strong business plan.
You have different funding options at your disposal.

One of them is a bank loan - though, in reality, small
business owners find it difficult to obtain loans from
banks because of the aura of uncertainty or lack of
collateral.
Other funding options include friends and family, angel investors, venture capitalists,
international grant opportunities, and so on.
In most cases, investors want to be sure you understand the business you are venturing
into. Hence, your business plan will come in really handy at this step. On the other hand,
if you have enough savings to begin, you can move to the next stage.
In Nigeria, the recognised body for the registration of new businesses is the Corporate
Affairs Commission (CAC). It is important to register your recycling business as soon as
you start in order to avoid challenges and harassment from government officials when
you begin operations.
First and foremost, choose your business structure. Do you want to register as a sole-
proprietorship business (Business Name) or as an incorporated entity (Limited Liability
Company)? You can also register the business as a social enterprise (NGO).
The cost and requirements for both are different. However, you can start out as a
business name owner and later upgrade to, for instance, a limited liability company as
you grow.

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The registration procedures are easy and can be done online

via CAC’s portal. Alternatively, you can hire a lawyer to
handle the registration process for you because most
aspiring entrepreneurs encounter challenges completing the
registration themselves.
One of the trusted firms known for offering business

registration service at a low price is ReDahlia, located at 43B,
Emina crescent off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos. The good news
is that distance is not a barrier. ReDahlia carries out the
registration process for you and delivers the certificate to
your preferred location.
Step 6 – Obtain The Required Permits And

Licenses
The recycling business deals with the environment and

influences public health, therefore, it attracts certain
licensing and regulation. Endeavour to get all necessary
licenses and permits before you begin operations.
For instance, one of the bodies that issue recycling license in Lagos is the Lagos Waste
Management Authority (LAWMA). Once you get licensed with them, your name will be
listed on their website along with your business category and your certificate number.
Apart from LAWMA, ensure to research other regulatory bodies in the recycling
business that's relevant in your region.
Step 7 – Buy The Relevant Recycling Equipment
If you are on a lean budget, you could rent equipment or partner with a recycling
company in your niche that is willing to work with you. In general, the niche you choose
will determine the equipment or machine to purchase.
Basic tools to acquire include scales to weigh your plastic waste, bins, sorting and
grouping equipment, washing gears, and so on. If you are working with larger
recyclables, you will need shredders, pulverisers, granulators, and other size reduction
machines to break down the raw material into smaller sizes.

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Other equipment includes:

• Truck
• Vibrator feeders
• Magnetic separators
• Baling machine (Vertical balers, horizontal balers, two ram balers, etc)
• Compactors
• Grapplers
• Metal Shears
Another way to make money in your business is to lease out your equipment to other
recyclers and collect a fee in return.
Step 8 – Acquire Land In An Optimal Location
The recycling process begins with the collection of materials. For instance, you can
collect recyclables from people’s homes, waste management companies, dumpsters at
commercial facilities like office buildings and warehouses, industrial facilities, or pay
other people to collect recyclable waste for you. Thereafter, these recyclables are
brought into your recovery centre or recycling plant for further processing.
It is important to set up your recycling plant where people are most inclined to drop their
recyclable wastes. That way, people can freely bring their recyclables to you.
It is also important to verify that your selected location is legally acceptable for this kind
of business. Approach your local government to find out if your prospective plant is
approved for your recycling business to avoid future challenges.
Besides an open space for material processing, you should also set aside office where you
can secure your equipment against theft.
Step 9 – Hire Employees
The employees you need in the recycling business are broad. When you begin, you will
need people that will help you with the collection of recyclables. Frankly, there’s no limit
to the number of persons you can employ.
The good part is that they don’t have to be permanent employees. They can work on a
commission basis. Additionally, you will also need some full-time employees that will
handle the machines and the day-to-day business operations.

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Step 10 – Promote Your Business
There are many manufacturing companies in

need of your recycled materials and now is the
time to reach out to them. Advertisement is the
oil of your business and you mustn’t joke with it.
Although waste management is very lucrative,

you won’t be able to mine the opportunities
therein if you don’t have a good marketing
strategy in place. The good news is that in the
21st century, marketing has been made easy
with the advent of the internet.
Apart from setting up a website for your

company, make sure to open a page across social
media platforms where you can share fun
aspects of your centre’s day-to-day activities.
Additionally, promote your product in
newspaper adverts. And partner with others in
your field.
Profit-Making Example: Making Money From Plastic

Recycling
If you chose the plastic recycling business as your niche, a good place to start would be
recycling Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET). PET plastic makes up the typical plastic
bottles you find in the streets, used to bottle water, soft drinks, and other similar
products. PET bottles are usually in demand because they are relatively easy to recycle
when compared to other plastics. PET recycled by-products include bags, rope, combs,
car bumpers, and naturally, more plastic bottles. Of course, you can explore other forms
of plastic recycling, however, PET recycling is the most common in Nigeria.
So How Do You Make Money?
You could select a business model whereby you and your workers collect a large
amount of recyclable plastic (from the streets, restaurants, and residential trash sites,
etc) and sell this plastic waste to recycling plants where they will be processed into new
products. Selling sorted but unwashed waste could earn you about N17 – N20/kg.

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However, we can go further.
Transportation of the PET bottles to your sorting site or directly to a recycling plant can
cost a lot of money and can cut deeply into your profit margin if you aren’t careful. Here
are some things to do to maximise your profit:
A. If you have collected 1 ton (1000kg) of PET waste, washed and sorted for sale, you
would earn N25 - N30 per kg, which amounts to at least N25,000 in revenue. However,
taking into account the amount of time needed to collect and sort the waste as well as the
money required to transport and pay waste collectors in your employ, you could be
looking at a net profit of N5000 at most.
That being said, one way to maximise your profits is to increase the amount of waste you
transport at one time. For example, if you sold 10 tons (10,000kg) instead, you would
bring in N250,000 in revenue while still expending the same amount on transportation,
thus maximising your profits. Additionally, buying your own truck to handle
transportation instead of renting a truck each time would really pay off in the long run
.
B. If after washing and sorting, you also bale and grind the waste into smaller pieces,
you can earn up to N60 – N70 per kg. With baling or grinding, 10 tons of plastic waste
would earn you at least N600,000 in total. After factoring in the cost of collection and
transportation, this adds up to a very tidy profit. Baling and grinding is definitely the
right way to go.
Of course, you would need to take into account the start-up costs required to purchase a
baling or grinding machine. You would also need to consider buying a space where you
can store your machines and sort the waste. However, as we will see in the section
below, it is quite possible to break even after a year or two regardless of the costs of
purchasing or leasing the necessary machines.
Recycling Companies That Buy Used Plastic Bottles In Nigeria
1. Chanja Datti Co. Ltd

2. Wecyclers
3. RecyclePoints
4. Greenhill Recycling
5. Takman Recycling Services

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How Much Will It Cost To Start A Recycling Business?

If you intend on starting a full-blown recycling plant, below is a breakdown of the
investments you will make (all of the equipment can be found on Alibaba.com). The
prices are as of the time of this research and may change with time. Note, however, that
you might not need to purchase all the equipment if you intend to partner with another
recycling company.
Registration
1. Business Name: N20,000 with ReDahlia

2. Weight Scales: N120,000 (to weigh up to 1 ton of waste); N20,000-N70,000 (to weigh
up to 300kg of waste)
Equipment
3. Plastic/Tire Shredder: from N2.5 million

4. Plastic Bottle Pulveriser: from N656,000
5. PET Bottle Granulator: from N2 million
6. Fairly Used Truck: from N2.5 million
7. Mini Vibratory Feeder: N123,000
8. Magnetic Separator: from N770,000
9. Vertical Baling machine: from N1.5million
10. Metal Shears: N60,000
Other Requirements
11. Warehouse: Varies with size and location.

12. Office Furnishing: N250,000
13. Machine Operators: N50,000 – N100,000
14. Waste Collectors: payment varies with amount of waste collected.
15. Marketing Material –

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Before investing in recycling, it is important to acquire sufficient technical training in your

chosen niche. If viable for your circumstances, volunteer at a recycling plant for a few
months to learn the ins and outs of the business before breaking out on your own. In a
business as capital intensive as this one, research and patience are vital.

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CHAPTER 34: ACCOUNTING BUSINESS
Every business needs accounting processes to become successful. In all truth, none of the
businesses we have discussed in this book can succeed without proper accounting or
book-keeping.
However, some entrepreneurs find it difficult to put their books in order and others
cannot afford to employ an accountant on a full times basis. As a result, there is a huge
opportunity for individuals with accounting skills.
Accounting, both as a discipline and as a business, involves keeping records of income

and expenditures as well as taxes and other financial obligations as may be required by
an organisation.
In this chapter, we will get into the details of how to start an accounting business.
What Is Accounting?
Accounting is the process of recording, classifying, analysing, summarising, and

interpreting the financial statements of an organisation.

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As an accountant or an accounting business-owner, you help other business owners

understand the state of their finances, keeping proper records of their trade, profit and
loss accounts, preparation and completion of tax returns, proposing solutions to business
financial roadblocks and many more.
Accountants drive business decisions through the accurate, orderly management of

finances and cash flow.
Skills Needed To Run An Accounting Business

Besides holding an accounting degree from a higher institute of learning and being
fluent in the language of numbers, here are other important skills that will help you lay a
good foundation for a successful accounting business.
1. Organisational Skills: Accountants often maintain a neat workspace, particularly

digitally, since they deal with numbers and paperwork that cannot be misplaced.
2. Analytical Skills: You must be great at reconciling data and numbers.
3. Sharp eye for detail: A misplaced decimal point can wreak havoc in a financial
report.
4. Structured work style: Accounting requires diligence, consistency, and
professionalism.
5. Aptitude for Technology: There are many accounting and spreadsheet software an
accounting firm must be familiar with in order to be efficient and successful.
Institute Of Chartered Accountants Of Nigeria (ICAN)

To be recognised as a professional accountant in Nigeria, it is imperative to get certified
with ICAN, the recognised body for professional accountants in Nigeria. The interesting
thing about getting certified with ICAN is that it gives you global recognition.
Furthermore, even if you don’t have a university degree in Accounting, you can become
a chartered accountant just by writing ICAN examinations. You are good to go as long as
you have O’Level results (with 5 credit passes) and a degree from any University or a
Higher National Diploma from any Polytechnic accredited by ICAN.
When you successfully complete the examination, you will qualify as an Associate
Chartered Accountant (ACA). However, a member of ICAN is not allowed to set up a
public practice as an accountant until he/she has applied for and has been granted a
license to practice by the council.

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The license to practice will be issued only to those

members who have been trained in professional offices
and have acquired the minimum practical training: 36
months for those with accounting qualifications and at
least 42 months for those without accounting
qualifications.
Who Is The Target Market Of An

Your target market includes large businesses and
corporations with myriad sources of income. Small
business owners tend to handle their accounting
obligations by themselves using the available accounting
software.
How Profitable Is Accounting Business?
Profitability depends on several factors such as the size of the business you are working
with, the scope of the work you are doing for them, the region in which you are located,
and several other factors.
Regardless, if you secure a high-profile, high-earning business, you can charge hourly
and this can amount to tens of thousands of naira in profit. In fact, a single accounting
job can land you a six-figure salary. In all, profitability and pricing are at your discretion
and will depend on how professional and dedicated you are.
Steps Involved In Starting An Accounting Business
Step 1 – Select An Accounting Niche
As you can probably tell, we value the importance of niching-down when it comes to
starting a business. In your accounting business, you must pick a niche in which you
would like to operate. Here are some of the niches worth considering:
A. Auditing
The auditing business involves examining a business’s financial records to verify that
they are accurate. This is done through a systematic review of their transactions.

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Many businesses have routine audits annually and even if a company possesses an
internal auditor, they might still hire an external auditor. An ICAN license is a
requirement if you want to run an audit firm in Nigeria.
B. Pure Accounting
This specialises in helping small, medium, and large businesses with cost-effective
solutions to their accounting, bookkeeping, and other financial needs.
C. Consulting
Accounting consultants play a crucial role in helping businesses enhance performance
and comply with changing regulations. Additionally, they aid businesses in analysing
their accounting processes, identifying the best accounting process that suits their
business type, resolving financial issues, and proffering workable solutions to them.
Unlike auditing, you don’t need an ICAN license to run an accounting consulting business.
D. Forensic Accounting
Many people involved in this niche of the business are specially trained for it. Basically,
forensic accounting is a mix of accounting and investigative techniques used to discover
financial crimes. Also, forensic accountants explain the nature of financial crime to the
courts.
E. Training
Here is another accounting business to explore. There are several accounting platforms
offering accounting training to people. You can open a social media account for the
purpose of training people in financial education.
There are several people out there who do not understand how to go about their finances
both personally and as a business. Therefore, you can offer to train them on topics such
as savings, investment, and using accounting software like (MS Excel, Peachtree,
Quickbooks, Sage Intacct, Xero, Desktop Pro, etc).
In addition to that, you can start a tutorial centre for students who want to write ICAN,
ACCA, and other accounting-related professional exams.
Step 2 – Register Your Business With the CAC
As we have discussed previously, the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) is the

recognised body responsible for business registration in Nigeria. Without mincing words,
customers see registered businesses as credible and trustworthy. This is especially
important in the accounting field.

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You’ll stand a better chance of gaining the trust of potential

clients if your business is registered. Furthermore, you cannot
open a corporate account without a business registration
certificate. The good news is that business registration in
Nigeria is simple and seamless if you know how to go about it.
First, you need to run a name search availability to ensure that

your preferred name has not been registered by someone else.
If the name is available on CAC’s portal, the next thing to do is
to reserve the name.
Afterward, you can begin the registration process properly by

following instructions on the CAC website. Sometimes,
businesses get stuck when registering themselves. So, it’s
advisable to hire an expert firm to help you with your
registration. One experienced firm you can trust in Nigeria is
ReDahlia.
Step 3 – Differentiate Your Business Among Competitors
After selecting the perfect niche for yourself, setting yourself apart is very important.
When starting any business, you need to be able to answer this question in the
affirmative: Why would my target audience do business with me instead of with my
competitors? Many entrepreneurs fail because they do not give enough thought to this
question.
Before answering this question, research the competition in the accounting market and
find an underserved community where you can fit in. Since you are involved in a service
business, your customer service and professionalism must be top-notch.
This step cannot be overemphasised. You need to properly plan your business for success.
Remember, he who fails to plan plans to fail. Contrary to popular belief, a business plan is
not difficult to draft. All you need is to ensure that both your long and short-term business
goals are penned down. Begin writing them one day at a time.

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Here, we reiterate the information that should be found in your business plan:
1. An overview of your accounting business
4. SWOT analysis
5. Market research
6. Your strategy
7. The team
8. A marketing plan
11. An appendix
Find out how much money is required to get started depending on the type of accounting
business you choose. Project for more money to ensure your business doesn’t run out of
cash before revenue starts coming in.
If you cannot cover this amount by yourself, then you need to think about seeking
external financing for your business. Actually, there are several options business owners
can consider when looking for outside funds.
The first attempt is usually to approach family and friends. Thereafter, you can turn to
angel investors, traditional bank loans, and venture capitalists. Another great funding
option is crowdfunding. Register with different crowdfunding sites and take your
chance. You can never tell if that’s where your capital will come from.
Step 6 – Market Your Accounting Business
Before you get excited about your new business, note that the most important aspect of
running a business is MARKETING. As simple as it sounds, marketing demands a lot of
hard work. If you get your marketing right, you are on your way to enjoying regular
high profits.
You must understand that even marketing agencies get marketing wrong sometimes.
What you need to do is carefully test different approaches with small amounts of money.
When you discover the one that works best for you, pump in more money into that
channel.

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Here’s a simple way to reach your target audience:

1. Find your selling point
2. Prepare your sales material
3. Search for prospects
4. Reach out to them
5. Follow up
The niche you select will inform the marketing channel that will work for you. Here are
some commonly used marketing strategies that produce results:
1. Social media
2. Google Ads
3. Partnership and collaboration
4. Word of mouth
5. Offering freebies
6. Requesting client referrals
7. Influencer marketing
What Are The Costs Involved In Starting An

Depending on your background, starting an accounting firm might not cost much. Really,
the basic requirement is having solid accounting knowledge. Typically, these are the
major costs you’ll incur as a start-up in this business:
Registration and Licensing Requirements

2. ICAN Examination Fees (for people without any Accounting Degrees):
• Foundation Level Papers (5 Papers in all): N174,500
• Skills Level Papers (5 Papers in all): N258,500
• Professional Level Papers (5 Papers in all): N284,750
Professional Level Examinations are to be completed within 5 years.
3. ICAN Examination Fees (for people with one or more Accounting degrees):
• Exemption Fee (in order to be exempt from certain examinations): N22,500 –
N187,200. The fee varies with your level of education in accounting (BSc to Ph.D.) as
well as the number of papers from which one wishes to be exempted (this can mean
all papers except one or two).
• Skills Papers (5 Papers in all. Might be optional): N258,500
• Professional Papers (5 Papers in all. Might be Optional): N284,750
Professional Level Examinations are to be completed within 5 years.

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4. ICAN Annual Membership Fee: N12,500 – N37,500 (varies with membership type).
5. ICAN License To Practice (Optional depending on niche. Renewable every 3 years):
N25,000
Office Requirements
6. Co-Working Office Space: ReDahlia offers a fast Wi-Fi connection along with private
offices and shared desks for an entire team. The price depends on your team's size.
8. Fairly Used printer: N15,000 – N23,000
binders, and so on.
10. Office Rent and Furnishing (optional if you go for ReDahlia’s Working Space): from
N450,000
11. Accounting software:
• Wave Financial: Free.
• QuickBooks: N3,870/month
Other Requirements

14. Professional Indemnity Insurance: varies with size of practice, location and
preference.
15. Secretary/Office Assistant Monthly Salary: from N60,000
The accounting business is a noble one. It allows you to offer tremendous help to small,
medium, and large enterprises and is accompanied by great financial rewards. There
you have it. If accounting is an interest or passion of yours, the best time to start is now!

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CHAPTER 35: GREEN BEAUTY SALON

The world is slowly waking up. Consumers everywhere are becoming more and more
concerned with the impact organisations and their products have on the environment.
Even salons and spas are taking notice and incorporating environmentally friendly
practices into their business. So, the question is this: if you plan to open a beauty salon in
Nigeria, why not niche down and make it green?
Green beauty salons are environmentally friendly or “eco-friendly” salons where both
services and business practices aim to do no harm to the environment. This means
reducing waste that goes into the environment, using energy-efficient appliances, and
managing precious resources like water.
In general, all businesses stand to benefit from going green. First, by minimising waste and
being careful with all your resources, you save money. Next, with the increasing demand
for green products, you and your business will definitely stand out and have an edge over
the competition. And finally, of course, you make a positive impact on the environment
and preserve it for generations to come.
Ultimately, a green beauty salon could be a fantastic business opportunity for any
entrepreneur.

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Steps For Opening A Green Beauty Salon
Step 1 – Write Your Business Plan and Business Registration
As we learned from the 34 other businesses we have tackled in this book, the business
plan is the foundation of your business. However, it doesn’t have to take too long to make.
If you’re thinking of opening a salon, chances are you already have a mental plan of
what your salon will look like, along with what kind of services you’d like to offer.
Now it’s time to put this plan on paper.
A business plan answers these questions:

• What exactly is my business about?
• What services or products will I provide?
• How can I make my brand eco-friendly or green?
• When can I start to expect profit?
• What kind of clientele am I targeting?
• Who is my competition?
• How will I fund my business?
• How can I troubleshoot any problems that might come up?
If you prefer not to start from a blank sheet of paper when writing out your plan, free
software like StratPlan and Enloop can help you get started. Fortunately, after reading
this chapter, you’ll have a better understanding of what to consider in your green salon
business plan.
Also, you should register your business with the Commission of Corporate Affairs (CAC)
in order to lend your business a steady and professional air. Registering with the CAC is
also beneficial to avoid building a brand around someone else’s brand name.
Finally, when it comes to the salon business, you might want to get a POS machine to
receive customer payments more efficiently. POS machines are available at most
commercial banks without any upfront costs to those who have either current or
corporate accounts.
Step 2 – Secure The Funding
At this stage, you likely only have a rough idea of how much money you will need to
open your new salon. Start-up costs can vary from ₦500,000 to ₦5 million, depending on
the size of the salon. However, it is best to know where the money will come from.

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You might decide to provide the capital for your

business out of your own pocket or from private
investors or even with a traditional bank loan,
though this might be a bit more difficult.
Another option is to identify family members and

friends who are willing to become sleeping
partners. Sleeping partners invest money into a
business but are not involved in the day-to-day
running of the business, though they receive a
share of the profits.
It’s worth noting that most entrepreneurs combine

several of these funding options when launching
their business. No matter what you choose, you
should have a clear idea of exactly where money
will come from before you go further.
Step 3 – Find A Great Location
The location you pick for your salon can make or break your business.
The ideal location for a beauty salon should be:

• Highly visible. In other words, it should be very easy to find.
• Easily accessible, so that clients do not have a hard time coming to the salon. Try
to avoid setting-up your business where the roads are mainly pot-holes and dirt
roads.
• A high-traffic spot, where a lot of passing vehicles and passers-by are to be
found. So think; malls, grocery stores, and any other area where there is a lot of
commercial activity going on.
• Far away from your competition! You really don’t want to set up a green salon
right beside another salon, eco-friendly or not.
• In an area with a steady source of water
• In an area with a good power supply. Later, we’ll get into how to power your
green beauty salon in an eco-friendly way. Still, avoiding locations with limited
electricity supply is best. This way, you rely on using your generator less, you save
money on petrol or diesel and you reduce toxic fumes released into the
surroundings.

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In summary, find an easily accessible area with high traffic and you’ll have steady
stream of customers.
Step 4 – Eco-Friendly Beauty Services
This is one place you get to show off your creativity. Once you’ve figured out what types
of beauty services and products you would like to provide at your salon, you could make
every single one of them eco-friendly. Your business will stand out amongst the
competition and reduce the harm done to the environment.
Common beauty salon services include pedicures and manicures, facial treatments, hair
braids, hair perms, haircuts, and so on. Two things that differentiate a green beauty salon
from one that is not so green, are simply the kind products used and how waste is
disposed of.
Eco-Friendly Beauty Products
To run a beauty salon, you would need to get shampoos, relaxers, hair extensions, and
dyes. To run a green beauty salon, however, you need to find products that were
manufactured with eco-friendly materials and in an environmentally friendly way. For
example, you could focus on using hair or facial products with recyclable packaging.
Some of these products are packaged using less plastic than usual or with biodegradable
materials.
If this is not possible, you could also look into buying products whose containers can be
cleaned and refilled. Refilling always costs far less than buying brand new products
every few weeks.
In addition, you can sell these green products to customers who care about the
environment the way you do! This is a fantastic way of maximising your profit while
also reducing the amount of waste that goes into the environment.
Waste Disposal
Proper waste disposal is relevant in every part of your beauty salon. It is best to set up a
good recycling system; organise any glass, plastic, or paper waste. As we saw in Chapter
33, some of your recyclable waste can even be sold to recycling plants. By doing this, you
make extra money and keep excess waste out of the environment.
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Step 5 – Figure Out Your Electricity Source
One of the main reasons that new businesses fail in Nigeria is the power or electricity
shortage. Since there is a lack of reliable electricity, most businesses turn to generators
powered by fossil fuels like petrol or diesel. Although generators are useful machines,
they cough out toxic fumes and can quickly become very expensive. In fact, according to
the Rural Electrification Agency, Nigerian businesses spend up to a whopping ₦14 billion
on their generators every year!
Apart from setting up your salon in an area with at least semi-reliable electricity, it might
be wise to look into a more sustainable source of power, like solar energy: energy from
the sun.
Did you know that the International Renewable Energy Agency has stated that the cost
of solar energy is falling rapidly? Installing solar panels will require an upfront
investment but will pay off in the long run. You’ll enjoy reduced electricity bills and use
up to 96-98 % less energy than you were with fossil fuels.
Step 6 – Practice Resource Management
When it comes to resource management, save thousands of Naira by going paper-free.

Things like invoices, receipts, and vouchers can be shared electronically over email. Save
your paper use for making flyers and posters when advertising your salon. Next, going
into more depth, you can be wise about your water and energy use too!
Water Management
Managing water is part of being sustainable i.e. managing scarce resources in a

responsible way. You might have a privately-owned water-pumping machine installed
or choose to pay companies to deliver water. Whatever the source of your water, it is
important to manage it.
One good way of doing this is by installing water recycling systems that allow you to re-
use rinse water after it has been cleaned. Another solution is to have a plumber regularly
check on your taps, pipes, and showerheads to make sure there is no slow leakage.
Following this particular step can save you thousands of gallons of water a year.
Energy Management
Managing your energy consumption is as simple as turning off lights and appliances
when they are not in use. However, you can go further by investing in LED light bulbs.

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You might decide to provide the capital for your

business out of your own pocket or from private
investors or even with a traditional bank loan,
though this might be a bit more difficult.
Another option is to identify family members and

friends who are willing to become sleeping
partners. Sleeping partners invest money into a
business but are not involved in the day-to-day
running of the business, though they receive a
share of the profits.
It’s worth noting that most entrepreneurs combine

several of these funding options when launching
their business. No matter what you choose, you
should have a clear idea of exactly where money
will come from before you go further.
Step 3 – Find A Great Location
The location you pick for your salon can make or break your business.
The ideal location for a beauty salon should be:

• Highly visible. In other words, it should be very easy to find.
• Easily accessible, so that clients do not have a hard time coming to the salon. Try
to avoid setting-up your business where the roads are mainly pot-holes and dirt
roads.
• A high-traffic spot, where a lot of passing vehicles and passers-by are to be
found. So think; malls, grocery stores, and any other area where there is a lot of
commercial activity going on.
• Far away from your competition! You really don’t want to set up a green salon
right beside another salon, eco-friendly or not.
• In an area with a steady source of water
• In an area with a good power supply. Later, we’ll get into how to power your
green beauty salon in an eco-friendly way. Still, avoiding locations with limited
electricity supply is best. This way, you rely on using your generator less, you save
money on petrol or diesel and you reduce toxic fumes released into the
surroundings.

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How Much Will It Cost To Start A Green Beauty Salon?

Unsurprisingly, initial start-up costs are greater to open a green, environmentally
friendly salon when compared to a regular one. However, as we said, the long-term
benefits are extremely significant.
Here’s the financial breakdown:
Registration
Salon Essentials
2. Salon Space: varies with size and region. You can rent a partially furnished salon from
N400,000 (1500 square meters in Lagos). You can also rent an unfurnished space.
3. Eco-Friendly Shampoos, Conditioners and Dyes (for customers and sale): N120,000
4. Eco-Friendly Nail Polish: N65,000 for 30 bottles (see Benecos, Orly, Kure Bazaar
brands)
5. Eco-Friendly Nail Polish Remover and Reusable Pads: N25,000 for 3 bottles (see
BDIH, Kure Bazaar brands) and 40 pads (see Tabitha Eve Bamboo Cotton)
6. Eco-Friendly Hand Dryer: N6,500 (Revlon)
7. Eco-friendly Hair Straightener: N15,000 (see EasyLife AMZ)
8. Hair Relaxers: N10,000
9. Braiding Hair Attachment: N20,000
10. Hair Clippers: from N5,000
11. UV Sterilizer (for hair clippers and other sharp tools): from N16,000
12. Towel (1): N2,000
13. Scissors, Combs, Brushes: N5,000
14. Salon Furnishings (mirrors, chairs, washing basins): N200,000
15. Water System Set-Up: N100,000
16. Green Entertainment and Decoration (magazines, paintings and sculptures):
N50,000
Make sure to verify the voltage requirements for the appliances listed and that they can
fit into your electricity socket.

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Energy and Waste Management
17. Solar Panels, Inverter and Batteries:

• Inverter: for one unit, N52,000 (for 900VA) – N780,000(for 15kVA). Price increases
with VA or kVA. VA: Volt-Ampere.
• Battery: for one unit, N45,000 (for 100AH) – N122,000 (for 220AH). The price
increases with AH: Ampere/Hour.
• Solar Panels: for one unit, N24,000 (for 160 watts) – N49,000 (for 330 watts). The
price increases with power wattage. Solar Panels can last up to 20 years.
N300,000 – N700,000 for purchase and setup of solar energy system (price varies
with number of appliances and wattage of panels). Estimates project up to N800,000
in annual savings on petrol for a generator (assuming spending of N55,000 –
N70,000 a month).
18. LED Lightbulbs: N700 - N800 for one bulb. LED bulbs consume around half the
energy of typical (incandescent) bulbs and last 50 times longer. See our guide on
Entrepreneurs.ng to find out how using LED bulbs can save you at least N186,000 in bulb
costs over 5 years.
19. Recycling Bin: from N10,000 (see Knoxx Equipment Limited)
20. Standard Trash Bin (240 litres): from N20,000
Office and Staff
21. Office Stationery: N25,000 (costs lower the less paper is used.)
22. Computer System: N35,000 – N150,000 for fairly used Windows PC
23. POS Machine: Free upfront through commercial bank. These banks will charge you a
0.25% - 1.5% charge per transaction to fulfil the expense of the machine.
24. Hair/Nail Stylist: from N40,000/month
25. Cleaning Supplies (mop, bucket, broom, soap, bleach): N5,000

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In this final chapter, we presented a comprehensive guide on how to start an

environmentally friendly salon in Nigeria. And of course, these steps are applicable to
many regions in the world! If opening a beauty salon has always been a dream of yours,
don’t hesitate; start working towards your green salon, gain an edge on all the
competition and save the environment!

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CONCLUSION
In this book, we have explored 35 different business ideas with actionable steps to start
them. All the business ideas we discussed can be started by any entrepreneur in Nigeria.
These businesses span a wide range of sectors: from agriculture to advertising, from
premium plumbing to accounting. We put together this business guide to empower both
experienced and inexperienced entrepreneurs to take charge of their creative and
financial aspirations as effectively as possible.
One fascinating thing about business is that failure begets success. That is to say that one
is very unlikely to succeed without first failing at something or another. Our mistakes
teach us what to avoid in the future and show us where our strengths lie. This is one
concept we have emphasised both implicitly and explicitly in this work.
What causes business failure in the first place? Well, it’s usually a combination of these
factors:
• Choosing to start a business with little potential for growth: Luckily for us, all
35 of the business ideas presented here are broadly profitable. However, when doing
your feasibility study, it is crucial to narrow down your services to niches that have
huge growth potential.
• A lack of leadership knowledge on how to move a business from point “A” to

point “B”: This lack can be overcome through extensive business consulting, reading
books like this one, and interacting with other entrepreneurs. No one starts out
knowing everything, and when it comes to learning how to lead as a new CEO, it is
extremely useful to learn from other people’s mistakes.
• A lack of understanding of how to compete: Every company has competitors

from the very beginning, and if not, gains competitors when others notice how
profitable the company is.
In this book, we placed quite a bit of emphasis on understanding your competition

and tailoring your products and services to fill in where your competitors fall short.
Understanding the game of competition allows you to gain and retain customers
with minimal effort, and in several chapters, we provide guidance on how to do this.
• Investing too little resources into marketing: Marketing was another point of
focus for us. Put simply, if you want to have a business, you need to market it.
Marketing puts your name out into the business world. And in the business world,
recognition often translates to money.

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• A lack of understanding of the important aspects: This is where the business

plan helps you shine. When drawing up a business plan, market research allows you
to identify the most sensitive elements to monitor. The business plan is all about
preparing for plausible scenarios rather than predicting them. Basically, it helps you
avoid unnecessary surprises. Check out our comprehensive guides at
Entrepreneurs.ng to get you started writing your first business plan.
All this said, failure, can always be overcome with knowledge and persistence.
Another theme that ran central in this book was the concept of starting with what you
have. To illustrate this, we made sure to include in our business costs, tools, and
equipment that can be obtained as cheaply as possible or even completely cost-free. This
is because when seeking funding for a dream business, we tend to focus on how much
we don’t have instead of how much we can do with the little we have.
Acknowledging that it’s okay to start where we are will deepen our optimism and our
zest for business. In a similar vein, we also placed emphasis on doing research and on
adopting cost-free means of educating oneself before starting a new business. By
incorporating this “start with what you have” mindset, you might find that your dreams
are more attainable than you think, regardless of cost.
If you have resolved to become an entrepreneur and have been inspired to start one of
the businesses discussed herein, fantastic! You have already taken an important step.
Using any of our 35 Mini crash-courses, you have access to a deep knowledge base that
not many are privy to.
Now, the beautiful part, I want to assure you that I'm not going to leave you alone. You
can reserve me for a two hour session to understand your business and develop a
winning business model that will stand you apart from the competition.
Business consulting services at ReDahlia are founded on hard-earned experience and

intuition, both of which will help you take all your promising business ideas to the next
level! You can make this booking from the Business Consulting page of Entrepreneurs.ng.
Finally, be sure to keep in mind that the greatest thing you can do for your business is to
never give up.

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Appendix
1. NAFDAC Guidelines For Registration Of Food Products & Packaged Water Made In
Nigeria (see Maize, Rice, Cassava and Palm Oil Businesses as well as Pure Water Business)
2. How To Process Your NAFDAC And Get A NAFDAC Registration Number In Nigeria
3. NAFDAC Guidelines For Inspection & Requirements For Packaged Water Facility In
Nigeria (Fresh And Renewal Applications) (see Pure Water Business)
4. NAFDAC Guidelines For Production Inspection Of Small Scale Food Enterprises In

Nigeria (New Applicants) (see Maize, Rice, Cassava and Palm Oil Businesses)
5. NAFDAC Guidelines For Inspection & Requirements For Pre-Packaged Food

Manufacturing/Packaging Facilities In Nigeria (see Maize, Rice, Cassava and Palm Oil
Businesses)
6. NAFDAC Guidelines For Inspection & Requirements For Bread Manufacturing (see
Bakery Business)
7. Design and Constructional Estimate of a 1000- Capacity Fishpond Towards

Diversification of the Nigerian Economy (see Fish Farming Business)

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Booming Business
35
Ideas And Step-by-step
Guides On How To
Start Them
Have you ever dreamt of starting your own business?

Are you itching to know what it takes to finally get there?
To launch a successful business from scratch, an aspiring entrepreneur would need to know the
"where?", the "how?" and of course, the "how much?". Great news: this book holds answers to all of
these questions and more. Relying on a wealth of expertise and a great deal of research, I, Florence
Chikezie, and my team at ReDahlia present this life-transforming treasure: comprehensive start-up
guides for 35 profitable businesses!
Combining fun graphics, breakdowns of how much money you can expect to invest starting out,
business and marketing advice gained from many years of experience, there’s nothing like this
book elsewhere!
Like you, I was once stuck in the rut of scouting and researching how to start the many businesses
that I run today. In fact, I often had to learn on-the-go. And learn I did! I have walked the path and I
now relay as a forerunner to ensure you are not confronted with the many challenges I and many
other business owners faced. You are certainly in a better place than I was, as you now have it all
for the taking.
The best thing? We covered a wide range of business sectors, tailoring our guides to suit both
aspiring and budding entrepreneurs as well as individuals of all financial abilities, so that there's
something for everyone.
By purchasing your own copy of 35 Booming Business Ideas and Step-by-step Guides on How to Start
Them, you are giving yourself a huge head start in your entrepreneurial journey. Not only will you
be gifting yourself, but you will be benefiting friends, family and colleagues because this is your
ticket to building a legacy.
FLORENCE CHIKEZIE is the founder of ReDahlia and is an award-winning

entrepreneur. In addition to running three successful businesses, ReDahlia
Workspaces, The Business Clinic and Entrepreneuras.ng, she has
consulted extensively with both brand-new entrepreneurs and seasoned
start-ups and helped to establish flourishing businesses across various
industries. Her mission is to empower a new wave of entrepreneurs who
will run sustainable businesses all over the globe. She earned a Master's
degree in International Business from Hult International Business School,
London, one of the best in the world, and she is currently based in Lagos,
Nigeria.

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35 Booming Business Ideas and Step-by-Step Guides on

How to Start Them.

43B Emina Crescent off Toyin, Street, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria.

© 2020 ReDahlia International Limited

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TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION 1

2. 'PURE WATER' BUSINESS 12

3. MINI IMPORTATION BUSINESS 20

7. DISTRIBUTION AND WHOLESALE BUSINESS 62

8. TRAVEL AGENCY BUSINESS 71

10. MAIZE FARMING BUSINESS 85

11. CALL CENTRE BUSINESS 94

12. SOLAR ENERGY BUSINESS 103

13. DROPSHIPPING BUSINESS 111

14. RICE FARMING BUSINESS 122

15. CUSTOM FURNITURE DESIGN BUSINESS 130

16. FASHION BUSINESS 139

17. DAYCARE CENTRE BUSINESS 148

18. ADVERTISING AGENCY BUSINESS 154

19. BULK SMS BUSINESS 162

20. SUPERMARKET BUSINESS 169

21. BAKERY BUSINESS 178

22. PRINTING BUSINESS 188

23. POULTRY BUSINESS 198

24. FILM PRODUCTION BUSINESS 206

25. BLOCK MOULDING BUSINESS 218

26. PLUMBING BUSINESS 226

27. CASSAVA FARMING BUSINESS 233

28. PHOTOGRAPHY BUSINESS 244

29. PRIVATE SECURITY BUSINESS 252

30. LIQUID SOAP BUSINESS 260

31. HAULAGE BUSINESS 268

32. BLOCK MOULDING BUSINESS 276

33. RECYCLING BUSINESS 285

34. ACCOUNTING BUSINESS 298

35. GREEN SPA AND SALON BUSINESS 304

In addition to providing practical guides on starting various businesses, we include

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CHAPTER 1: PALM-OIL BUSINESS

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The Palm Oil Business Defined

Uses Of Palm Oil

• Prevention of vitamin A deficiency, cancer, brain disease, and aging

How Profitable Is Palm Oil Business Generally?

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Steps To Starting Palm Oil

Step 1 – Choose The Palm Oil

Typically, there are three main types of palm oil

A. Oil Palm Tree Plantation

Cultivating an oil palm plantation is capital

In this type of palm oil business, you will need to

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B. Palm Oil Extraction Mill

C. Sales Of Palm Oil

Step 2 – Draft A Business Plan

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