Stephen Manyie is the owner of Airterras, located in Ikotun with speciality on phone, laptop repairs and sales. Manyie holds a diploma in Software Engineering from National Institute of Information Technology (NIIT) and certifications from Microsoft. He is proof that with determination, passion and knowledge anyone can achieve their dreams. He shares with JOY NGWOLO how he started his business with a little sum of money but has been able to grow it into a solutions haven for folks within the vicinity.
How did you get into this line of business?
After my secondary school education, my brother advised that I acquire a computer related skill while trying to process admission into the higher institution. I felt it was a good idea also because I wanted to learn something new and that is how I applied for Computer Engineering at Bafuto Computer and Secretariat school. I developed interest in it. Along the line, I was exposed to some motivational books that inspired me to start my own business. I read a book titled ‘Why we want you to be rich’ by Donald Trump and Robert Kiyosaki. One of the most striking statements for me in that book is ‘no business is too small to look at’. The books I read fuelled my ambition and taught me how to make money through legitimate means. If I am rich, I can be resourceful to my country and also be of help to others. I not only read those books, I also put into practice all that I learnt. I learnt that the easiest way to get money from people is to provide solution because the world is looking for solution providers. So each time I was presented with a faulty gadget, I saw it as an opportunity to make more money. Hence, I began with computer repairs before I started selling laptops and phones. My first step was to go to Computer Village to make enquiries about places to get computers at cheaper rates, after which I conducted a research on the trade asking questions from people who were already in it and thus I acquired a lot of knowledge. Ever since then, I kept on working hard and saving to grow the business and it has paid off. I started this business with N6,500 at the age of 19 and now I can boldly say that I have made my first million from it.
When you first made the move to begin your business, were you scared that it would not work out or that your money would go down the drain?
Yes, but I had also learnt that not taking a risk meant that you had already failed so I had a drive. Even if things didn’t work out the way I planned, there would have been another way out.
Do you think you would have achieved same results if you were in a different field?
Of course I would. It still boils down to solving problems. No matter what field I find myself in, my focus would be on problem-solving. Even if I were in the Transportation industry for instance, I would know that my focus would be on providing solutions to people’s needs which is conveying them from one place to another.
What is your selling point?
My selling point is honesty. A lot of engineers lie and use inferior materials after collecting huge sums of money from people. I always try my best to use the best materials for my clients so that their gadgets last longer. As such, I get referrals from people and that has helped me to sustain my business. Whenever clients come up with complaints, I do not switch off my phone or try to avoid them, I always attend to them promptly because I have a standard of excellence and a reputation to protect. I want more referrals and so I try to give people the best services.
You studied Computer Engineering, how did you divert into phone repairs?
People heard that I was good at repairing computers so they always brought their phones to me with the assumption that I could repair them. At first, some people tried to discourage me since I had no prior training on phone repairs but then I remembered one of the lessons I learnt from my books which is that I needed to overcome fear. I discovered that the set-up of the phone was just like the computer. The phone was like a smaller computer, so, since I already knew the similarities between the phone and computer, I knew I needed to learn the differences between them. I sought for knowledge in phone repairs and it has helped to boost my business.
Which is better, buying devices from the open market or buying devices online?
I won’t condemn any but each comes with advantages and disadvantages. The products that are displayed online came from offline sources, the difference is just the packaging. Some people go to Computer Village to get those gadgets but when they post them online, they appear more attractive. Eventually, some gadgets that are sold online sometimes develop faults too.
What factors should people consider before purchasing a new laptop or phone?
The first thing they need to realise is that they must hold someone responsible in case any issue comes up with the gadget. Who are you buying from or who is recommending that product to you? If it is from an online source, check the reviews to find out what people are saying about the product. When buying offline, ensure that you get a receipt for the device. It is unadvisable to buy gadgets on the streets because if any issue comes up, there will be no one to hold responsible, it is also important to know the seller’s location.
What precautions do people need to take to ensure that their gadgets last longer?
When it comes to buying gadgets, both the seller and buyer have roles to play. As a buyer, inspect the device thoroughly especially the durability of the battery. Also ensure that you get a receipt and there is guaranty on the device. However, don’t pour water on the device and later return with complaints that it is not working anymore. Don’t allow devices to fall from your hands anyhow otherwise you end up with unnecessary expenses trying to repair them. Get a bag for a laptop and a pouch for a phone.
Did the new trend of online sales of phones and laptops affect your business in any way?
Yes, it did because a lot of people do not want to leave their houses anymore, they like comfort. I had to adjust to trends by putting up my products online as well. People who know me, come to my store to buy from me, while I still get orders online because there are more customers online than offline hence I make more sales online.
What does it take to be an entrepreneur?
I would say you need determination, decision and desire. I had a strong desire to succeed because I was tired of living a low life. Even with desire, one requires training to achieve one’s dreams. One must also be determined because in the world we live in, there are a lot of distractions.
Do you have plans to further your education?
Yes, I do but I don’t believe there is any point claiming that you went to school if you have nothing to show for it. Do people go to school so that they can add to the problems of the world or to solve them? I chose a skill that helps to solve the world’s problems and I am satisfied with it.
