‘Fashion business is thriving but requires consistency’

Andrea Onyinyechi Tochukwu is the Chief Executive Officer of Asandrea Stores, an outfit that deals in women luxury wears. According to her, women should look good always and ooze out confidence when they step out. She believes in hard work, determination, women thinking outside the box and showing off their creative side. In this interview with GERALDINE AKUTU, the fashion entrepreneur shares her thought on the fashion business in Nigeria and other sundry issues.

What prompted you to go into fashion business?
It is my hubby. I saw how he ran his business with ease. He introduced me into the world of fashion. So, I chose to do something in the fashion business as well. Overall, it is also the desire to be financially independent that motivated me.

How is life like as an entrepreneur?
It is a bumpy ride, some days it is great and some days it is not so rosy. However, one thing that has kept me going is my believe in God Almighty and the desire to succeed.

What is your take on the fashion business in Nigeria?
We are growing in leaps and bounds. We are evolving in all ramifications. It is a business that is capital intensive. Our designers are creative and churning out wonderful outfits. People from different parts of the world are patronising Nigerian designers and wearing our designs. The most important thing right now is that the country exists. They also know that we produce our own designs and we also consume the fashion of other cultures of the world. Nigerians are resilient people and never disappoint when it comes to fashion. So, it is a thriving business but it requires consistency.

How can it be better?
One thing that is paramount is that Nigerians love fashion. They are fashionable people and they would love to buy anything called fashion as long as it is within their reach. If the government can reduce the import duty rate or subsidize it for importers. It will make fashion more affordable and accessible to the common man.

With the economic situation in Nigeria, what advice would you give women going through one challenge or the other? 
Hold unto God in good times and in bad times. Indeed, nothing lasts forever. So just know that this phase will pass too and it will give room for something greater. Believe in yourself and always have the mindset that you will succeed despite all odds.

Where do you see your business five years from now?
I see Asandrea stores becoming a global brand with different stores all over the world. Also, the best force to be reckoned with in the fashion scene. I will also diversify into other profitable ventures in the near future.