Mr. Ifeanyi, Founder and Managing Director of Romatime Frozen Foods in Kaduna, has called on Nigerian banks to provide flexible financing and support to small and medium enterprises (SMEs) as a way of boosting national economic development.
Ifeanyi praised Jaiz Bank Plc for its commitment to supporting small businesses, noting that the bank’s SME financing played a pivotal role in expanding his frozen foods business.
He said, “I started my business using personal savings, which required discipline and commitment. After establishing a foundation, I accessed financing through Jaiz Bank’s SME facility, which helped us scale operations, improve efficiency, and meet growing customer demand. Their mobile app also makes transactions seamless.”
Highlighting the importance of accessible financing for SMEs, Ifeanyi stressed that such support empowers entrepreneurs, stimulates economic growth, and creates sustainable opportunities that can reduce poverty nationwide.
On business challenges, Ifeanyi noted fluctuating market prices and poor road infrastructure, which sometimes delays delivery and affects product quality. To address these issues, his company adopted cautious bulk purchasing strategies and invested in logistics to optimize delivery routes.
He advised young entrepreneurs to pursue businesses they are passionate about, learn through hands-on experience or apprenticeship, start small, and grow steadily with patience, resilience, focus, and integrity.
Ifeanyi revealed that his experience at Dafla Farm inspired his venture into the chicken business, which later expanded into fish and other seafood products. He emphasized that the food industry’s consistent demand allows businesses like his to remain profitable and relevant throughout the year.
