This as-told-to essay is based on a conversation with Wanaemi Sampson, who runs a computer training, printing, and copy business in Lagos. Business Insider Africa has verified her professional background.
- Wanaemi Sampson turned her computer skills into a business after leaving her job in 2017.
- Her entrepreneurial journey includes learning financial and marketing strategies, adapting to market demands, and leveraging feedback.
- She gains fulfillment by impacting others’ lives through training and community engagement.
I had just quit my job in 2017, and I needed to survive, and jobs weren’t coming in like that.
I had skills: I could type, edit, handle printing, and train people on computer basics—so I said, “Why not try?” That’s how the business started in 2018 – seven years ago, thinking it was a means to an end, not knowing it was kind of the main thing.
One of the biggest challenges is doing everything by yourself. You’re the face, the engine, and the fuel.
Some days, you’re fired up; other days, you’re wondering if this hustle is worth it. Some days you just wanna sleep out of discouragement. But then you remember why you started, and you keep pushing.
In a 9–5, you have structure, you know when to close. As an entrepreneur, everything is on you; if you slack, nobody carries the load.
Now, I write down tasks, organize things by type, and try to separate “urgent” from “important.” I’m learning to work smart and not just be busy. Because as an entrepreneur, if you’re not careful, 24 hours will go and you won’t even know where it went.
I cut out excess spending, I review my services and focus on the ones that still bring income or have long-term value.
During quiet periods, I lean into training programs, like affordable computer classes. They help me stay visible and relevant.
Staying afloat during slumps
I also try to think like a customer. “What do people need right now?” If zobo is selling more than printing, I face zobo. Simple. You adjust, or you sink.
First of all, I pray. I carry God along, because this journey is not for the faint-hearted. Then I try not to panic. I’ve trained my mind to focus on what I can control.
I also write and reflect a lot. It helps me reflect and release stress. And I talk to people; other small business owners, friends, even clients. Sometimes, one conversation, even the most casual ones, gives you an idea you hadn’t thought of before.
Perks of being Boss
I won’t lie, freedom is top of the list. I’m not caged in. If I want to try something new, I do it. I get to build my own structure, take risks, and see the results firsthand.
Another thing I love is the impact. I’ve trained young people who had never touched a computer before. You need to feel the satisfaction of helping someone grow. I’ve helped schools manage their exams. That kind of fulfilment? It’s priceless.
And yes, unexpected opportunities have come too: collaborations, consultation, recognition, referrals. Things I didn’t even plan for.
Start small. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect. Use what you have, where you are. Don’t follow the trend. Do you.
Also, learn. Watch free tutorials, read, attend business events—even if they’re online. Understand how money works. Learn how to market yourself without sounding desperate.
And mindset is key. You need grit. Things won’t always go smoothly, but if you stay consistent, it will pay off.
Also, surround yourself with people who get it. The journey is easier with community. One more thing; set boundaries. You will need it.
Navigating Nigeria’s business climate
Nigeria will humble you, but it will also teach you sense. Electricity issues, internet wahala, rising costs- you learn to adapt fast.
I try to offer services that don’t depend heavily on electricity; even if it’s the smallest of the services I offer. I also try to make my prices flexible, especially for students, startups and schools.
I pay attention to customer feedback and stay flexible. Sometimes it’s not about being the best in the market; it’s about being the most dependable, the problem solver.
My goal- Whether I’m running my own thing or joining a team, I bring the same mindset: solve problems, add value, and leave people better than I met them. That’s my blueprint, that’s my mantra.
