Buying used phones can land you in jail, Olumide warns Nigerians

The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of JayPlug Gadgets, Jowosimi Olumide, has warned Nigerians against buying used phones, saying it could land an innocent person in jail.
 
The young entrepreneur, who built on his passion for business and the experiences he garnered while growing up in Oshodi, which is known for hustling, to establish JayPlug Gadgets, a mobile phone and consumer electronic retailing company, advised people to be very careful when purchasing used phones.
 

So, one needs to be extra cautious and know the person you are buying from and not just any random person in case an issue arises,” he said.
 
Olumide explained that he has always been business-oriented, hence his foray into mobile phone and consumer electronic retailing.
 
His words: “I have always been business-oriented, and growing up in a place like Oshodi where hustling is part of everyday life, I knew early on that I wanted to run my own business. The idea of getting into the phone retailing business came naturally because I saw the need to bring mobile phones and accessories closer to people and provide solutions to communication issues. With my business skills, I was motivated to create a store that provides quality products at affordable prices, and that’s how JayPlug Gadgets was born.”
 
He explained that his business is thriving despite the current harsh economic situations of the country.
 
“The economy has been tough, no doubt. People are more cautious with their spending, and the fluctuating exchange rate has made it harder to keep prices stable. But even with these challenges, we have been able to keep the business running smoothly. Our approach has been to continuously find ways to adapt and offer our customers value for their money. It’s not easy, but we keep pushing forward,” he said.
 
Speaking about what the government can do to help young businesses at this difficult time, he noted: “The government can play a big role in helping young entrepreneurs like me. For one, the provision of grants and loans at low interest rates would go a long way in supporting small businesses. There is also a need to have more empowerment programmes for young people who want to go into business. Another key area is stabilising the foreign exchange rate so that businesses that depend on imports can plan better and avoid sudden price hikes. If the government can address these issues, it will greatly improve the business environment for us.”
 
A graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Lagos, Olumide said his ultimate goal is to have his brand, Jay Plug, dominate the African market for mobile phones and consumer electronics.
 
He stated that his desire is to provide solutions to problems while building a thriving brand, noting that in business one must be diligent, honest and possess integrity.