By Don Ebubeogu

Circumstances based on personal idiosyncrasies and contingencies prevented us from furthering our education at the university. We filled that vacuum by reading widely, from classics to adventures, sciences, lifestyles and biographies of historical personalities.

With our meagre resources, we registered as members of the American Spice Trade Association, Institute of Food Technologists and American Institute of Baking to have access to the pool of information on Food Science and Technology.

We used to stop at Marina Street in Lagos whenever we were in town to buy books and “Okirika” clothes. We had a room full of books, Newsweek and Time magazines. A trait we got from our two older but late brothers.

Work and books became our favourite pastimes. We had a boring social life and refused to be influenced by trends and frivolities. Eyes were on the ball most of the time.

Amid our financial challenges, the year 2000 marked a significant achievement as we accumulated savings of N2,000,000.00 through financial discipline. However, it was not enough to import essential raw materials, as we relied on competitors for critical items like Nutmeg seeds, Anise seeds, and Cloves, which we used with other local spices to blend the foremost “Ebu Tiger Nutmeg”.

A timely proposal was made to Chief Sam Ihionu, who is our in-law, seeking his support with a contribution of an additional N2,000,000.00 to facilitate the importation of vital materials from The Netherlands, with a shared stake in the resulting profits. Chief Sam Ihionu’s confidence and assistance breathed new life into the young enterprise, marking a period of rapid growth and potential.

Thus, the story of self-education, resilience, and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit continues to unfold, weaving a tale of perseverance, collaboration, and the enduring pursuit of lifelong learning.

…to be continued

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