Meet The Boss: Andrew Eweka On Bridging The Gap Between Africa And Global Business

Andrew Eweka is a prominent figure in the consultancy field with over 20 years of experience. He also has over a decade of experience in the Nigerian oil and gas industry. His journey has culminated in roles as CEO, chairman, founder and board member, in a range of industries including healthcare and e-commerce.

His main aim in business is bridging the gap between Africa and the rest of the world. This article will uncover the powerful mindset and tactics that have helped Andrew Eweka to achieve his ongoing professional mission.

Dr Byron Cole: Could you tell us about your journey in the consultancy field and how it has shaped your approach as the CEO & Chairman of 1stMan Global and CEO of Brompton AGI FZ LLE?

Andrew Eweka: My journey in the consultancy field has been marked by a deep commitment to problem-solving and strategic thinking. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with diverse organizations, helping them navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities. This experience has reinforced the importance of innovation, adaptability, and a global perspective. As the CEO & Chairman of 1stMan Global and CEO of Brompton AGI FZ LLE, this consultancy background has shaped my approach in two key ways. Firstly, it has instilled in me a keen sense of client-centricity, focusing on delivering tailored solutions that align with the unique needs of each organization. Secondly, it has emphasized the value of fostering a culture of collaboration, where diverse talents and perspectives come together to drive growth and transformation.

Cole: With your extensive experience in various corporate roles and board memberships, how do you balance the diverse interests of different companies you are involved with?

Eweka: Balancing the diverse interests of multiple companies requires a delicate blend of strategic alignment and effective communication. Drawing on my experience, I prioritize open dialogue and transparent communication across all entities. This helps ensure that overarching goals are shared, and potential conflicts are addressed proactively. Furthermore, I encourage cross-pollination of ideas and practices among the companies I’m involved with. By identifying common challenges and best practices, we can streamline processes, maximize efficiency, and create synergies that benefit all stakeholders.

Cole: As someone who has brought global businesses into Nigeria and West Africa, what challenges and opportunities do you see in expanding international companies into these regions?

Eweka: Expanding international companies into Nigeria and West Africa presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities. On one hand, these regions offer immense growth potential due to their large consumer base and emerging markets. However, navigating regulatory complexities, cultural differences, and infrastructural limitations can be daunting. By focusing on localized strategies, investing in building strong local partnerships, and conducting thorough market research, we can mitigate risks and capitalize on the enormous opportunities these regions offer.

Cole: Could you share your vision for bridging the gap between Africa and the rest of the world in terms of business? What strategies are you employing to achieve this?

Eweka: My vision revolves around fostering mutually beneficial partnerships between Africa and the global business community. This involves facilitating knowledge exchange, technology transfer, and investment that can drive sustainable development across the continent. To achieve this, I emphasize the importance of education and capacity building, nurturing a new generation of African entrepreneurs who can compete on a global stage. By promoting cultural understanding, facilitating trade agreements, and leveraging technology, we can establish a more level playing field that benefits both African economies and the broader international business landscape.

Cole: Apart from your business ventures, you’re also a co-founder of Wazima Health and a non-profit football academy. How do these initiatives contribute to your goal of harnessing youth potential and bridging gaps?

Eweka: Wazima Health and the non-profit football academy reflect my commitment to harnessing youth potential and bridging socioeconomic gaps. Wazima Health addresses healthcare disparities by providing accessible medical services to under served communities, improving overall well-being. The football academy, on the other hand, offers a platform for youth talent development, instilling values of teamwork, discipline, and ambition. These initiatives align with my belief that empowering the youth is crucial for sustainable development. By investing in education, health, and skills development, we create a foundation for brighter futures and contribute to narrowing societal disparities.

Cole: In today’s rapidly changing business landscape, how do you stay ahead of the curve and adapt your strategies to new challenges and trends?

Eweka: Staying ahead of the curve requires a commitment to continuous learning and a proactive approach to change. I emphasize the importance of staying well-informed about industry trends, technological advancements, and market shifts. Regularly engaging in research, attending conferences, and seeking diverse perspectives helps me anticipate challenges and identify emerging opportunities. Agility is key. I encourage my teams to embrace innovation, experiment with new approaches, and be willing to pivot when necessary. This adaptability allows us to respond effectively to evolving customer needs and market dynamics.

Cole: The concept of global business can be complex and intricate. How do you simplify this concept and make it accessible to a wide audience, especially those who might not have a background in business?

Eweka: Global business, at its core, is about connecting people, products, and ideas across borders. I often use relatable metaphors to illustrate this concept. Just as individuals can learn from different cultures and experiences, businesses can thrive by collaborating with diverse markets and leveraging each other’s strengths. I also emphasize the tangible impacts of global business, such as job creation, improved access to products, and enhanced quality of life. By highlighting these real-world outcomes, I make the concept more relatable and accessible to audiences without a business background.

Cole: Collaboration and networking are crucial in the business world. How do you approach building and maintaining meaningful connections within your extensive network?

Eweka: Building and maintaining connections is about authenticity and value creation. I prioritize meaningful interactions over transactional exchanges. This involves actively seeking opportunities to collaborate, share insights, and offer support to others in my network. I also value diversity within my network, seeking out voices from different industries, backgrounds, and regions. Regular communication through platforms like industry events, social media, and even personalized emails helps nurture these relationships over time.

Cole: Could you share a memorable success story from your career that highlights the impact of your efforts in bringing global businesses to Africa?

Eweka: One standout success story involved bringing a tech startup specializing in renewable energy solutions to Africa. By identifying the need for sustainable power sources across the continent, we positioned the company to provide affordable and eco-friendly energy solutions. Through strategic partnerships with local governments and businesses, we successfully implemented these solutions in various regions, positively impacting both the environment and local economies. This success demonstrated the transformative power of aligning global expertise with local needs, driving positive change and illustrating the potential of international collaborations in Africa.

Andrew Eweka’s Tips For Aspiring Entrepreneurs And Leaders

1. Lead with purpose. Understand the core values that drive you and the impact you want to make. Combine this with a hunger for continuous learning and a willingness to step out of your comfort zone.
2. Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Every setback is a chance to learn, pivot, and grow stronger.
3. Surround yourself with a diverse and supportive network. Collaboration and mentorship can provide invaluable insights and accelerate your growth.