In Pursuit: Journeys in African Entrepreneurship

by Osaretin Oswald Guobadia, Chukuka Chukuma

In Pursuit - Journeys in African Entrepreneurship chronicles the journeys of two friends whose experiences in America shaped their approach to starting their own businesses in Nigeria. Drawing on their experiences of working, building and supporting business, and exposure to multimillion-dollar projects around the world, they uncover what it takes to own, run, and grow a profitable business.



Through their personal insights, they relay information relevant not only to entrepreneurs and investors seeking to do business in Nigeria, but anywhere on the globe—after all, the heart of business is human interaction. Their conversational banter-jab style, for which they're known in person and on social media, invites readers into their circle where they can share the wisdom gained through continuous pursuits to fulfill their dreams.



Business and life intersect. No matter your goal, you're not crazy, and no, you're not alone! Through In Pursuit, two Bendel boys invite you to laugh, yell, and reflect, as they converse from head and heart.

223 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 1, 2020

Reviews

[Tunmise Usikalu · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book! I love how open and honest the authors are about their journeys.
The "300 missing pages" was my favourite chapter and I enjoyed the discussion around "North stars" and their traits. So very insightful.

I came away having learnt a whole lot! To me, this is so much more than a book on entrepreneurship as it has so many life lessons too....

The banter between Osaretin and Chukuma was the icing on the cake. I thought it worked well to buttress the key points being made and it showcased their beautiful friendship!

[miriaku · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insightful and delightful

I really enjoyed reading this book. As a one time returnee, I could relate with their entrepreneurial journey and their passion for Nigeria and Africa. This book will serve as a guidebook for anyone who wants to go back to Nigeria from "the abroad". It holds valuable wisdom and insights that will guide that decision. Kudos to the authors for sharing their authentic stories in a very inspiring way!

[Kokoro · Rating 4 out of 5]

In "Pursuit: Journeys in African Entrepreneurship" by Chukuka Chukwuma and Osaretin Oswald Guobadia, the narrative is witty, organic, sad, entertaining, while also profoundly revealing, informative, and encouraging, particularly for those in the diaspora with an interest in embarking on entrepreneurial ventures in Nigeria. The book's tone is humorous, authentic, and engaging as the authors delve into topics that are typically draining, frustrating, and even illegal in many contexts, yet they present them in a "cruise and vibe" style that resonates deeply with Africans, especially Nigerians. I enjoyed how the authors employ a step-by-step approach to dissect the actions they took to penetrate what initially seemed like an impenetrable market, showcasing major deals such as Africa's first billion-dollar deal executed by NLNG and MTN's $395 million entry into Nigeria. These deals have significantly influenced the landscape of Nigeria, shaping the private sector. The authors discussion of the prevailing status quo characterized by an obsession with outdated business practices, a lack of forward-thinking, vision for innovative business ideas was spot on. I also liked how they did not shy away from the very aggressive tactics this actors employed to deter/ squash any competition instead of becoming profit sharing partners.
The authors shed light on the absence of robust laws and policies, inadequate adherence to contractual obligations, and the persisting toxic and inhumane corporate practices that still plague many African countries, particularly Nigeria. These practices often revolve around the abhorrent exchange of sexual favors for business deals, regardless of the competence and viability of the business proposals put forth.