Secret Business Lessons from 9-year-old Nigerian 'Hawker' - true story
- Simon Zaku
- Mar 1
- 3 min read
Are You Shy of Promoting Your Business? Read This.
Did you know that in some parts of Nigeria, people work tirelessly under the scorching sun, trekking miles every day, just to earn what amounts to less than a dollar?
It’s easy to feel discouraged about marketing your business, especially when you’re confined to the comfort of your home, scrolling through social media, and wondering why your efforts aren’t yielding results.
But let me tell you a story about resilience, perseverance, and the value of promoting your business without shame.
Who am I?
My name is Simon Zaku, a proud Nigerian from Jalingo, Taraba State.
I’ve lived here all my life, and I’ve seen the struggles and triumphs of hardworking Nigerians up close.
From starting small businesses like a barbershop to venturing into the world of digital marketing and SEO, I know firsthand what it means to hustle.
That’s why I believe I’m in a good position to share these stories and insights with you.
The Pure-Water Sellers in Nigeria
Let’s start with a simple example: pure water hawkers.
As of 2024, a sachet of pure water costs 15 Naira in Taraba State - that’s roughly $0.02 when converted to dollars.
Imagine trekking for hours under the hot sun, carrying a bag of pure water that weighs nearly as much as you, and earning just a few cents per sachet.
Yet, these hawkers push forward with a smile, unashamed to sell their product.
Now compare that to you, sitting in the comfort of your room, posting TikTok videos or social media ads to promote your business.
Yes, it can feel frustrating when sales don’t roll in immediately.
But are you doing less work than the pure water seller who earns less than a dollar a day?
And if they can proudly sell their product on the streets, what’s stopping you from promoting yours online?
Secret Business Lessons from 9-year-old Nigerian 'Hawker' - The Story of the Taraban Kid I Met
A few months ago, I met a 9-year-old boy hawking groundnuts in a bushy area of ATC, Jalingo.
He wasn’t even from Taraba State - his uncle had brought him here to make a living.
The boy had no shoes and was trekking miles just to meet a man who had promised him slippers two weeks ago. His hope?
That the man would honor his word and give him something as simple as a pair of slippers.
Yet, the boy wasn’t complaining.
He was focused, determined, and grateful for the opportunity to work and earn.
Now think about this: if a boy can hawk groundnuts barefoot with pride, what excuse do you have for not marketing your business?
Whether it’s sharing your services on social media, reaching out to potential clients, or running an ad, you owe it to yourself and your business to give it your all.
What Can We Learn From These Stories?
1. Resilience Pays Off: Just like the hawkers, you must be consistent in promoting your business. Keep showing up, no matter how tough it gets.
2. No Shame in Selling: Nigerians who hawk for a living aren’t ashamed to pitch their products to strangers.
Take a page from their book - be bold and confident in your marketing efforts.
3. Celebrate Small Wins: Every sale, no matter how small, is a step forward.
Appreciate the journey as much as the destination.
Practical Tips for Marketing Without Shame
Leverage Your Network: Start by sharing your business with friends and family.
Word of mouth is a powerful tool.
Use Digital Platforms: Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and WhatsApp offer affordable ways to reach a larger audience.
Post regularly, engage with followers, and stay consistent.
Learn From Local Entrepreneurs: Take inspiration from street vendors and hawkers.
They understand their market and work tirelessly to meet its demands.
Closing Thoughts - Do NOT Give Up; Hawk Your Brand
Promoting your business isn’t always glamorous, but it’s necessary.
Remember the boy without shoes, the pure water sellers, and countless other Nigerians who work tirelessly every day to make a living.
If they can do it with pride, so can you.
So, what are you waiting for?
Take the first step today.
Market your business boldly, consistently, and without shame.
After all, success doesn’t come to those who wait - it comes to those who work for it.
Let’s grow together,
Simon Zaku,
Founder, CEO, IbiFoundry.com.ng
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