Taofik Adegbite, Diaspora Returnee, Breaking through Tremendously

Most Nigerians abroad who are keen on returning home are usually frightened by three demons: poor power supply, bad roads and insecurity. Those amonsgt the diaspora-based Nigerians who are considering setting up businesses in Nigeria have additional nightmares such as demotivating government policies, conflicting regulations and multiple taxation amonsgt other negativity that constantly torment their souls.

However, despite these unnerving realities, some Nigerians don’t mind taking the menacing plunge. Taofik Adegbite is one of these ultimate risk takers.

Imbued with the ubiquitous narrative that upon all the troubles that characterized Nigeria’s system, there are also countless opportunities for those who can face the fire and count on some sort of serendipity, Taofik left his abode in London and returned to Nigeria to start a business.

Today, that risky decision continues to tremendously pay off for Taofik and his two friends, Biodun Odunsi and Baji Nyam, with whom he founded the leading Nigerian oil services company, Marine Platforms.

Presently, Marine Platforms boast of multi-milliondollar assets including two multi-purpose field and ROV support vessels which are symbolically branded African Inspiration and African Vision; a workforce of over 120; impressive global oil clientele and astounding annual turn-over through which the company makes significant contribution in tax payment to the Nigerian government.

Taofik’s astonishing accomplishment is already a reference point in high places. He was featured as the lead personality in the ‘Sky is Big Enough’ television advert produced by Skye bank to highlight the strides of successful entrepreneurs. The highly intellectual businessman was also the “poster boy” as the bank used the same material in several national newspapers.

Similarly, major stakeholders in the Nigerian oil and gas industry like Chevron, Shell and the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring and Board (NCDMB), have consistently made reference to Taofik and his company, Marine Platforms, as an example of how local capacity should be encouraged, supported and given opportunity so as to have many Nigerians acquire necessary skills and technical know-how to help in improving different sectors of Nigeria’s economy.

Truly, Nigeria needs more of Taofik’s ilk. Likewise, he needs to do more to inspire more of his likes. That will be a win-win at the end of the day.