An authorised retailer of digital gadgets, Rifugio Communications, has marked its 10th anniversary with a call on the Federal Government to create a more stable and business-friendly environment that encourages innovation, investment, and the growth of local enterprises.

The Founder of the company, Kayode Thomas, made the appeal at the weekend during an event to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary.
Thomas said the firm, established in 2015, had over the years faced several challenges ranging from economic fluctuations and naira devaluation to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. He urged the government to ensure economic and exchange rate stability to ease the burden on local businesses.

He explained that Rifugio, meaning “refuge” in Italian, was created as a platform where customers could access a range of gadgets and related value-added services, including device insurance.
According to him, the company partners with major global brands such as Samsung, Tecno, and Infinix, operating as exclusive Samsung Experience Stores and multi-brand outlets across the country.

“Over the years, we have provided comprehensive services such as instalment payment plans, insurance for mobile devices, and a wide range of consumer electronics beyond mobile phones,” he said.
Thomas said the company’s establishment was driven by his passion for technology and the goal of building a sustainable enterprise that contributes to Nigeria’s economy through quality service delivery.

He also explained the reasons behind price disparities between devices sold in Nigeria and those abroad, noting that importing adds to operational costs.
“Importing involves additional costs such as duties and demurrage, and high local operating costs add to the final price,” he said, adding that Nigerian customers, however, benefit from warranties and local support unavailable with imported phones from overseas.”

The founder also expressed optimism about expanding its operations to all the states in the country before the next two decades.
“Our vision is to be present in every state and every corner of the country. We still have a long way to go. By God’s grace, in 20 years’ time, when we do this again, I’ll be telling you we’re now in all states of Nigeria,” he said.

The Chairman of Rifugio Communications, Francis Ogboro, commended the firm’s resilience amid harsh economic realities affecting many businesses.
He encouraged the company to expand its operations to the northern region, especially Kano State, which he described as a key commercial hub serving other African countries through cross-border trade.

At the event, Rifugio and its partners rewarded customers with free Smart TVs, iWatches, EarPods, and other gadgets as part of activities marking the anniversary.