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Seed Nigeria Webinar: Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape Event Details: As Nigeria enters a new era of fiscal reform, understanding the implications of recent tax changes has become crucial for every business leader. Join us for an insightful webinar on “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape” , a timely session designed to help organizations adapt, stay compliant, and identify opportunities within the evolving tax environment. Led by seasoned experts from KPMG in Nigeria , this session will demystify complex regulations and share actionable insights to help businesses thrive amid transformation. Why You Should Attend Gain clarity on the latest tax reforms and their practical impact on businesses across sectors. Learn how to optimize… Show More REGISTER November 18, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Zoom Panel Nana Abu Senior Manager, Tax, Regulatory and People Services, KPMG in Nigeria Speaker With over 12 years of experience in tax advisory, compliance, and policy reform, Nana has supported numerous multinational and indigenous businesses in navigating complex tax landscapes. Her expertise spans consumer markets, infrastructure, and ICT sectors, helping organizations achieve compliance and… Show More Akinwale Alao Partner, Tax, Regulatory and People Services, KPMG in Nigeria Speaker Akinwale brings nearly two decades of professional experience advising local and international clients in sectors including retail, construction, oil and gas, and telecommunications. Recognized for his leadership in cross-border taxation and fiscal policy reform, he has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s… Show More REGISTER

Men's Wellness Hangout Event Details: In celebration of International Men’s Day and the remarkable men in our Network, we invite you to a special hangout—at a gym! This is not your typical event venue, but it’s the perfect setting for us to unwind, bond, and prioritize our well-being together. Join fellow members of the Network for an energizing and relaxed time where you’ll: Connect and share experiences with other business leaders Gain valuable health tips from seasoned health professionals Take part in guided light exercises and practical fitness routines designed for men at every stage of life, to help you stay healthy and fit as… Show More REGISTER December 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM GMT+1 CrossFit Gym, Victoria Island, Lagos Panel REGISTER

Lagos Tactical Workshop With Mr. Seleem Adegunwa Event Details: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” How do you grow a proudly Nigerian brand that competes with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull? What does it take to build visibility, win market share, and earn consumer trust in a global arena? If you are not a Stanford Seed Member, visit this link to register for this event. At this exclusive Tactical Workshop , Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the visionary behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks , shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that transformed Bigi from a local challenger to… Show More REGISTER July 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM Marriott Hotel, Ikeja Panel Mr. Seleem Adegunwa MD/CEO Rite Foods Limited Guest Speaker Mr. Seleem Adegunwa is a seasoned business executive with over 29 years extensive experience across different industries, including the Food and Beverage industry. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, he has been at the forefront of… Show More REGISTER

Lagos Tactical Workshop Event Details: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” How do you grow a proudly Nigerian brand that competes with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull? What does it take to build visibility, win market share, and earn consumer trust in a global arena? At this exclusive Tactical Workshop , Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the visionary behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks , shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that transformed Bigi from a local challenger to a globally recognized brand. This is not a keynote. It’s a deep dive into the real… Show More REGISTER June 25, 2025 at 12:00 PM Lagos Panel REGISTER

Lagos Tactical Workshop With Mr. Seleem Adegunwa: Non-Members Event Details: Are you looking to scale your business, reposition your brand, or break into a market dominated by global players? Join us for an exclusive Tactical Workshop titled: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” Led by Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the driving force behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks. If you are a Stanford Seed Member, visit this link to register for the event. This session offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how a proudly Nigerian brand grew to compete with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull. Show More REGISTER July 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM Marriott Hotel, Ikeja Panel Mr. Seleem Adegunwa MD/CEO Rite Foods Limited Guest Speaker Mr. Seleem Adegunwa is a seasoned business executive with over 29 years extensive experience across different industries, including the Food and Beverage industry. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, he has been at the forefront of… Show More REGISTER

Explore the impactful programs of the Stanford Seed Transformation Network, Nigeria Chapter, designed to empower members, support entrepreneurs, and drive sustainable economic growth across Nigeria. Our Progams We offer a range of impactful programs designed to empower our members and contribute to the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. From initiatives that help members scale their businesses to programs that support other entrepreneurs and drive economic growth, our activities are focused on fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable development across Nigeria. Seed Diaries LEARN MORE Tactical Workshop LEARN MORE SUITE Training LEARN MORE Company Visit LEARN MORE Leadership Lab LEARN MORE

Company Visit: Micronutrients Laboratories Event Details: Join Dr. Acholonu for an exclusive, members-only company visit to Micronutrients Laboratories Ltd (formerly Bio Organics Nutrient System Ltd), a pioneer in the fight against malnutrition in Nigeria. This unique event is open strictly to Seed Transformation Network members, offering you a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at the creators of Cognito® Instant Micronutrient Powder—an innovative product that has positively impacted the lives of over 350,000 children across the country. During the visit, you will: Tour the state-of-the-art production facility and witness firsthand the rigorous processes that ensure Cognito® MNP meets the highest food safety standards, including NAFDAC… Show More REGISTER June 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM Omole Phase 1 Panel REGISTER

IWD2025 Day 3: Financial Literacy for Women Event Details: Welcome to Day 3 of the Stanford Seed International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025 Empowerment Series ! Join us for a transformative Webinar with Tosin Olaseinde , Founder and CEO of Money Africa, as she shares her expertise on financial literacy, budgeting, investments, and wealth management tailored specifically for women entrepreneurs. Tosin’s innovative approach has empowered thousands across Africa to make informed financial decisions and achieve sustainable growth. 📅 Date: Friday, March 7th, 2025 ⏰ Time: 6pm 📍 Where: Zoom 💡 Why Attend? Learn actionable financial strategies from a leading expert in finance and investment. Be part of the IWD 2025 event series, which culminates in a… Show More REGISTER March 14, 2025 at 6:00 PM GMT+1 Zoom Panel Tosin Olaseinde Founder/CEO of Money Africa Speaker Tosin Olaseinde is the Founder and CEO of Money Africa, a leading financial literacy platform that empowers individuals and businesses across Africa to make smarter financial decisions. With over a decade of experience in accounting, finance, and investment management, Tosin… Show More REGISTER

Member Focus: Sandra Chukwudozie of Salpha Energy Aug 20, 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link In a world where millions still live without reliable access to electricity, a new wave of African entrepreneurs is rewriting the story of energy access. One of the boldest voices leading this transformation is Sandra Chukwudozie , Founder and CEO of Salpha Energy . Since establishing the company in 2017, she has delivered solar solutions to over 2 million people , bringing power, opportunity, and hope to underserved communities. From launching the first female-owned solar home system assembly plant in Sub-Saharan Africa to expanding into large-scale industrial applications, Sandra has positioned Salpha Energy as a pioneer in Africa’s clean energy revolution. A Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 honoree and member of the Africa Council for the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) , Sandra is not only building a company but also shaping global conversations around sustainability and inclusive growth. Her career spans policy work at the United Nations to running a fast-growing African business, reflecting a rare blend of international perspective and local impact. In this edition of the Seed Nigeria Member Focus , Sandra shares her inspiring journey, offering valuable insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the future of Africa’s energy transition. Q: How did your time at the UN reshape how you saw yourself and influence the kind of legacy you wanted to build in Nigeria? A: I had a life-changing moment when I joined the United Nations in New York in 2015. It was at that time that I found myself through finding an outlet where I could actively work on effecting change. This change was none other than the energy transition. That same year, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals were unveiled and the Paris Agreement (COP 26) was also ratified by the heads of state of 174 countries as well as the European Union. I saw the transition to clean energy as an opportunity to build my portfolio, and by becoming one of the pioneers to usher Nigeria into this era of renewable energy resources. As a young woman in Nigeria, I understood the importance of having a dream this big, the impact it would have on the country and the flame it would ignite in the hearts of young people; the underdogs, the underestimated who had something to prove. I wanted to channel the energy of the youth in order to usher in this change. Q: You recently secured a $1.3M investment to expand Salpha Energy’s reach. How did that moment land on a personal level? What did it mean to you, emotionally or symbolically? A: Salpha’s journey has unfolded in three distinct chapters. First, we focused on the product: how do we design solar solutions compelling enough to make people move away from generators? That required building a lean and efficient last-mile system physically getting to the customer, demonstrating value, and earning trust. Second, we tackled affordability. Our customers are often in the lowest income brackets. So we introduced flexible payment models to unlock access at scale. The third chapter was localization building a local assembly plant, developing in-house technical teams, and ensuring that the solar products we deliver are optimized for African realities. That means control over design, quality, and cost. So when the $1.3M investment came in, it marked more than growth capital. It was a clear signal that what we built was no longer just working, it was investable, scalable, and undeniably relevant. And yes it’s also significant that the only female-led solar home system assembly plant in Sub-Saharan Africa is now investment-backed. That moment was personal. Q: As a woman leading in the renewable energy space, what have been some of the deeply personal moments, times when you questioned yourself, overcame doubt, or found strength? A: In the early days, we struggled with unreliable suppliers and substandard components. It led to distribution challenges and trust issues with customers. That period was humbling, I thought I was solving for energy poverty, but I realized I was also up against economic power . Because energy poverty isn’t just about lack of electricity. It’s about who captures value. While we were focused on reaching last-mile communities, we were bleeding money upstream through inflated supplier costs, poor-quality components, and foreign-owned supply chains. That was a defining moment for me. It forced a mindset shift: we weren’t just distributors. We were builders. And if the value chain was going to change, it had to start from within by owning the supply chain, training technical talent, and making solar systems for Africa, in Africa. Q: What was the most difficult “yes” you’ve ever had to say in your journey, personally or professionally and how did that moment shape you? A: The hardest ‘yes’ was saying we’d build our assembly plant right here in Nigeria with all the inefficiencies, all the unknowns. Everyone told me to offshore it: cheaper, easier, less risky. But I said yes to local manufacturing because the energy transition has to include us not just as consumers, but as creators. That yes meant investing in systems where none existed, training talent from scratch, and absorbing the risk personally. But it also gave birth to something rare: a blueprint for how the next generation of climate-tech companies in Africa can own their future end to end. Q: You’ve intentionally built a women-inclusive company as over 75% of Salpha Energy’s workforce is female. Why is this so important to you personally? A: Because energy systems have historically been built without women in mind both in terms of who designs them and who benefits from them. At Salpha, we’re not just reversing that pattern. We’re designing forward . We’ve made women’s inclusion a core part of our strategy not just because it’s right, but because it makes the business stronger. From manufacturing to distribution, we’ve seen firsthand that when women are empowered with the right tools, training, and decision-making authority, performance improves. Retention improves. Impact scales faster. But it’s also personal. I’ve worked in rooms where women’s perspectives were dismissed not because they lacked insight, but because the system never expected them to speak. So when I had the chance to build something from the ground up, I built it differently. I built it with women in mind from day one. For us, inclusion isn’t a CSR statement it’s a competitive advantage. And in an industry that’s reshaping the future, there’s no excuse to build it using the exclusions of the past. Q: When you think of the impact Salpha Energy is making, what stories stick with you most, stories that moved you or reminded you of why this work matters? A: When people think about energy access, they often talk about numbers the millions still in the dark. But for me, the real impact is personal. It lives in the stories of people like Beatrice. Beatrice is a married woman in Cross River State unemployed, caring for her toddlers, and completely dependent on her husband to survive. Not by choice, but because unemployment in her community left her with no options. She was frustrated. Depressed. Stuck. Like many women in Nigeria, she was raised in a society that taught her that work, especially technical work, wasn’t for women. And even if she dared to dream, the opportunities didn’t exist. Today, Beatrice works in our factory assembling solar systems, earning a living, and building skills in a male-dominated field. And more than that, she’s building confidence. She’s rewriting the story for herself, for her family, and for every young girl watching. That’s what Salpha is about. Yes, we’ve reached over 2 million people with solar. But our mission goes beyond access we’re in the business of Energy Freedom . And for women especially, energy freedom is life-changing. It’s the difference between dependency and dignity. Between being told what’s possible and deciding that for yourself. Every time I walk into the factory and see women like Beatrice thriving, I’m reminded that this work isn’t just about light. It’s about liberation. Q: Balancing vision, execution, and personal growth isn’t easy. What routines, support systems, or mindset practices help keep you grounded and aligned? Gratitude keeps me dangerous. It reminds me that I’ve already survived things that once felt impossible. That grounds me. Working out sharpens my discipline and it’s a form of resistance too. I need strength, stamina, and clarity to lead under pressure. I also lean into stillness when I can. Reflection is my way of staying aligned. I don’t just want to move fast, I want to move with clarity. Q: What would you say to any young African woman with a bold idea but thoughts of, “Can I really do this?”... What would you say to her from your heart? A: The biggest regret is often the regret of not listening to your own voice. So make it a daily discipline to imagine the woman you want to become and show up like her, even when no one is watching. Read people’s stories. Watch their journeys. Not to copy them, but to remember that greatness is always imperfect at the start. You don’t need perfect conditions. You just need to move. Doubt is normal. What matters is choosing faith over fear and starting anyway. Sandra’s story is one of vision, resilience, and purpose. Through Salpha Energy , she has redefined what is possible in the clean energy sector by demonstrating that access can be both scalable and inclusive. By creating affordable solar solutions and investing in local talent, particularly women and youth, she has built more than an energy company; she has built an ecosystem of empowerment. Her journey reminds us that leadership is about more than innovation, it is about the lives touched and the futures transformed. As members of this network, we celebrate Sandra as a shining example of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and look forward to the continued impact of her work in shaping Africa’s sustainable energy future. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Other News Inside the Seed Nigeria April Members' Hangout: An Evening of Connection, Insight, and Shared Experience There are moments within our network that go beyond structured sessions and formal engagements, moments where connection becomes more natural, conversations more open, and the value of community more evident. The April Members Hangout was one of those moments. From the very start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Members arrived to familiar faces, shared greetings. For some, it was a chance to reconnect after a while. As the evening unfolded, conversations began to flow across tables,... Read More SUITE Training Recap: Building Brand Resilience in Times of Change What makes a brand survive uncertainty, and more importantly, what makes it win after it? At the recent SUITE Training held on Saturday, the 18th of April, 2026, at Greenpeg Engineering HQ in Lagos, Stanford Seed Nigeria hosted an in-depth and highly practical session led by Temitope Louis, MD/CEO of TradeEdge Limited. The focus was clear and timely: how to build resilient brands in times of change. Beyond the theme, what unfolded was a powerful breakdown of how identity, branding, and brand... Read More Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Network’s Tax Webinar As Nigeria prepares for one of the most significant overhauls of its tax system in recent history, the Stanford Seed Transformation Network convened a timely and insightful Tax Webinar titled “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape.” The session was designed to help businesses within the network stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned ahead of the incoming reforms. Held on 18th November 2025 , the session focused on what the new tax laws mean in practice, not just in theory... Read More

Created to Create Value: Key Lessons from the November SUITE Training with Seyi Abolaji Dec 16, 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link On 22nd November, 2025 , members of the network gathered for an impactful Suite Training session led by Seyi Abolaji , Founder of Wilson’s Juice Company . The session, themed “Created to Create Value: Business and Leadership Development – Calling, Success, and Healthy Habits,” was a deeply reflective and practical conversation on purpose, leadership, and sustainable growth in the marketplace. Drawing from his personal journey and years of entrepreneurial experience, Seyi challenged participants to rethink conventional ideas of success and to intentionally align their work, habits, and leadership with long-term impact. From Humble Beginnings to Purposeful Leadership Seyi opened the session by sharing his personal story, one marked by resilience, self-awareness, and reinvention. Born in Nigeria and raised in the United States under difficult circumstances, he explained how excellence in athletics, academics, and leadership earned him a place at Stanford University, reinforcing the idea that grades alone are never enough. After a short-lived professional football career and multiple failed attempts abroad, Seyi faced a defining moment: the realization that talent without clarity would not lead to impact. A question posed by one of his Stanford mentors, “Will you live a life of comfort or a life of impact?” , became the foundation for the decisions that followed. Returning to Nigeria, Seyi experienced multiple business failures before starting Wilson’s Juice Company with just ₦2,000 . Today, Wilson’s Juice has grown into an international brand, expanding further into technology through DALA Technologies , a shared services platform supporting African businesses at scale. The Marketplace as a Calling, Not a Compromise A major theme of the session was the marketplace as a legitimate and powerful platform for purpose and service . Seyi reframed work as ministry, drawing attention to the fact that Jesus Himself spent most of His time in the marketplace, not isolated from society. He outlined five core ministry expressions and their modern-day market equivalents: Entrepreneurs as creators who build from nothing and forge new paths Salespeople as communicators who drive action and influence Managers as shepherds who guide systems and people Leaders as teachers who bring clarity and growth HR and culture builders as pastors who nurture environments and people The message was clear: comparison is a distraction , and true fulfillment comes from understanding and committing to one’s unique assignment. Redefining Success: Joy Over Noise Seyi challenged traditional definitions of success, emphasizing that success is an internal experience , not an external measurement. Titles, income, and possessions are outcomes, not the goal. He distinguished between happiness , which is circumstantial, and joy , which is sustained and rooted in alignment with purpose. According to him, it is impossible to feel successful when one’s work, values, and growth are misaligned. Building a Foundation for Inevitable Success: A.E.I.O.U At the core of the training was a practical framework for personal and professional growth; A.E.I.O.U , five daily disciplines fully within an individual’s control: Appreciate: Recognize personal strengths while valuing others Encourage: Give energy and hope to yourself and those around you Initiate: Take responsibility and act without waiting to be told Overcome: Push past fear, doubt, and setbacks Understand: Commit to learning, curiosity, and mentorship These practices, Seyi emphasized, are not optional suggestions but non-negotiable habits for growth . From Intention to Impact Building on this foundation, participants were encouraged to adopt five guiding principles for real-world success, including being deliberate with actions, separating learning from salary, and measuring value by tangible impact such as increased sales, generated cash, or reduced costs. A particularly striking takeaway was the balance between faith and action: “Faith without action is dead, but action without direction is waste.” Members were reminded that progress comes from starting, learning, improving, and moving forward, not from waiting for perfection. Sustaining Success Through Healthy Habits Recognizing that growth without health is unsustainable, Seyi highlighted five non-negotiable health habits essential for long-term impact: Adequate sleep and rest Natural eating and hydration Consistent physical movement Intentional spiritual time Quality family and relationship time Neglecting the body, mind, or spirit, he warned, ultimately slows purpose and destiny. Final Charge: Choosing Calling Over Comfort As the session drew to a close, participants were reminded that comfort is easy, but calling requires intention . The marketplace is not a distraction from purpose, it is often where purpose is fully expressed. The training ended with a robust Q&A session, allowing members to reflect, challenge ideas, and clarify insights, reinforcing the session’s emphasis on growth through honest dialogue and action. The Suite Training with Seyi Abolaji was not just a lesson in business — it was a call to live, lead, and work with clarity, discipline, and joy. Seyi Abolaji. Founder, Wilson's Juice! comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Other News Inside the Seed Nigeria April Members' Hangout: An Evening of Connection, Insight, and Shared Experience There are moments within our network that go beyond structured sessions and formal engagements, moments where connection becomes more natural, conversations more open, and the value of community more evident. The April Members Hangout was one of those moments. From the very start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Members arrived to familiar faces, shared greetings. For some, it was a chance to reconnect after a while. As the evening unfolded, conversations began to flow across tables,... Read More SUITE Training Recap: Building Brand Resilience in Times of Change What makes a brand survive uncertainty, and more importantly, what makes it win after it? At the recent SUITE Training held on Saturday, the 18th of April, 2026, at Greenpeg Engineering HQ in Lagos, Stanford Seed Nigeria hosted an in-depth and highly practical session led by Temitope Louis, MD/CEO of TradeEdge Limited. The focus was clear and timely: how to build resilient brands in times of change. Beyond the theme, what unfolded was a powerful breakdown of how identity, branding, and brand... Read More Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Network’s Tax Webinar As Nigeria prepares for one of the most significant overhauls of its tax system in recent history, the Stanford Seed Transformation Network convened a timely and insightful Tax Webinar titled “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape.” The session was designed to help businesses within the network stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned ahead of the incoming reforms. Held on 18th November 2025 , the session focused on what the new tax laws mean in practice, not just in theory... Read More

Discover inspiring stories of growth, resilience, and innovation from members of the Stanford Seed Transformation Network, Nigeria Chapter. Seed Diaries highlights the transformative journeys of business leaders driving impact across Nigeria Seed Diaries Seed Diaries captures the inspiring journeys of Stanford Seed Network members as they navigate the highs and lows of building impactful businesses. These stories highlight resilience, innovation, and the transformative power of collaboration within the Network. From overcoming challenges to scaling enterprises, each diary offers a glimpse into how visionary leaders are reshaping industries, creating jobs, and driving economic growth across Nigeria and beyond. Explore these powerful narratives and discover the profound impact of leadership rooted in purpose and shared learning. WATCH SEASON 3 Let's Have a Chat Are you a Seed member? Do you have an interesting story to tell? We would love to have you on our next episode of Seed Diaries JOIN US

New Year Hangout & Cohort 15 Welcome Ceremony Event Details: Start the year together. Welcome to the future of the Network! We’re kicking off the new year with a special gathering designed to do two important things: celebrate the start of a new chapter and officially welcome our Cohort 15 members into the Stanford Seed Network community . In place of an end-of-year party, this New Year Hangout will bring members together for connection, reflection, and forward-looking conversations, while formally inducting our newest cohort into the network. What to Expect Official induction of Cohort 15 members A relaxed New Year hangout with fellow network members Meaningful conversations, networking, and community bonding Setting the… Show More REGISTER January 17, 2026, 5:00 – 10:00 PM Function Room, Lagos Oriental Hotel, VI Panel REGISTER