Titled Nomads of the Digital Realm: The Launch of Samuel Ajiboyede's Startup Through a Million-Dollar Agreement for a Distribution Network

In the dynamic world of technology and business, influence has become more than just a buzzword – it's currency. This is a lesson that Samuel Ajiboyede, the founder of Zido, a digital supply chain procurement and logistics platform, has embodied in his journey to success.

Ajiboyede's story began in 2020, when he moved to the UK on a Global Talent Visa, bringing with him a wealth of experience from working for FedEx and DHL in the United Kingdom. However, it was his personal brand and strategic approach that truly set him apart.

In the same year, Ajiboyede founded Zido. The platform was designed to streamline the supply chain process, offering a solution that integrated procurement, warehousing, and transportation. This holistic approach quickly caught the attention of businesses, leading to a significant milestone – a $10 million contract to help a large Nigerian company move cargo shipments within the country.

Ajiboyede's success can be attributed to his unique business strategy – a "zero financing" approach. He secured contracts first and used them as leverage to access financing, a strategy that has proven effective in propelling Zido forward.

Zido has since grown, managing teams across several countries, including Nigeria, the UK, contractors in the US, and China. The logistics arm of Zido serves blue-chip companies such as Unilever and Lafarge, and manages distribution and inventory for consumer goods manufacturers.

Ajiboyede emphasises the importance of adaptability in navigating the complex business landscape of each country. He argues that for genuine transformation in Africa's logistics sector, government infrastructure must integrate with private enterprises.

Zido operates on two models: a joint operation model and a franchise model. This flexibility allows the company to adapt to the unique needs of each market, a testament to Ajiboyede's adaptable approach.

Ajiboyede's personal brand has not only contributed to Zido's success but also played a crucial role in his own. Within two years of arriving in the UK, he was appointed to techUK's board, one of the UK's most influential technology bodies.

Despite his global responsibilities, Ajiboyede remains a location-independent first employee in his company, frequently traveling between continents. He insists that Nigeria must follow the UK's example of close collaboration between startups and government to create a fertile ecosystem for growth.

In a world where influence can be as valuable as the best idea, Samuel Ajiboyede's story serves as a beacon of what can be achieved with the right strategy, adaptability, and a strong personal brand.