INTERVIEW: Don’t wait for the perfect moment to start a business, says Araba Sanni

Araba Olufemi Sanni is a senior management professional and fellow of the Nigerian Institution of Civil Engineers (NICE). He is also president of Stefolga Group.

In a recent interview with journalists in Lagos, Sanni talked about how he founded Flow FM in Kwara and why he believes young Nigerians will redirect the country’s path towards prosperity and development. 

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You are a man wearing many hats. How did it all begin?

Sanni: You know, it started quite simply: with a deep desire to build. I’ve always had this natural curiosity about how things work, how roads are built, and how cities grow. That led me into civil engineering. From there, life kept opening new doors. I just kept walking through them, but always with a plan and with God. The journey from engineering into business and media was gradual. It came from wanting to create value and solve problems.

With a 38-year career as an established engineer and 15 years as chairman at Stefolga Group, what would you say has been responsible for your success?

Sanni: Honestly, I would say discipline, consistency, and grace. You see, I’ve never been the loudest person in the room, but I’ve always believed in doing the work — quietly but diligently. And, of course, I’ve had the support of family, mentors, and a fantastic team. Stefolga didn’t grow overnight; It took years of building, learning, and sometimes failing. But we stayed committed to excellence, and I think that’s what made the difference. 

You look youthful and your business group offers employment to young Nigerians. Do you believe in Nigerian youths?

Sanni: Absolutely. If there’s anything I’m proud of, it’s the fact that young people see me as one of them, despite my age. I believe so much in the Nigerian youth. They are bold, creative, and resilient. What they need is mentorship, structure, and opportunities. I’ve always made sure that in everything we build; whether it’s in construction or media — there’s space for young minds to grow and shine. 

For a man who oversees a media company that offers employment to young Nigerians, what advice do you have for youths? 

Sanni: First, I’ll say don’t wait for the perfect moment to start. Start where you are, with what you have. Be curious. Learn constantly. And don’t be afraid to ask questions. Also, be patient with yourself, growth takes time. Most importantly, carry integrity with you like a badge. The world will test you, but your values will define your path.

Are you into politics?

Sanni: Yes, I am. Are we not all into politics? The degree of our involvement may vary along with our beliefs. I believe politics is a platform to serve people and influence development. It’s not about power, but about responsibility — using governance to improve lives and create opportunities. Politics, to me, is a tool for meaningful change.

I have always believed that for society to thrive, people with integrity, experience, compassion, and outside-the-box thinking capabilities must step into leadership. Like the kind of leadership Nigeria is experiencing now with President Asiwaju Bola Tinubu.

My journey into politics was driven by a genuine concern for the future of Kwara and the desire to serve. I’ve contested for the house of representatives in 2003 and later the governorship in 2019 — not because I was desperate for power, but because I believed in offering credible, people-focused leadership.

My goal has always been to make governance work for the common man, for the youth, for entrepreneurs, and for the everyday Kwaran who just wants a better life. Thankfully we are experiencing some of such now in Kwara, I pray we continue to.

Let’s talk about Flow FM. What necessitated the idea of floating the radio station?

Sanni: The idea behind Flow FM came from a need to create a voice for the people — especially the youth. Kwara needed a different platform from the usual, they needed a platform that is informative, truly engaging, and empowering. I wanted to build a space where local youth stories could be told, where talent could be nurtured, and where ideas could flow — literally and figuratively. 

How has it been running the radio station and working with young Nigerians?

Sanni: It’s been both challenging and rewarding. Young Nigerians are full of energy, ideas, and creativity. At Flow FM, we’ve created a culture that allows them to thrive and take initiative. Of course, we’ve had to build structure and discipline into the system but seeing them grow professionally and personally has been fulfilling. We have also established a football club that is also grooming young talents in the state for world exposure. ARABA Football Club is playing the NLO this season and we have had some European scouts in and 2 of our players have been picked for tryouts in 2 European countries.

Are you looking at expanding the frontiers by floating more stations aside from the maiden one?

Sanni: Yes, definitely. We are already exploring new locations. The vision is to expand our reach across multiple states, giving more young people a voice and increasing our impact. We want to keep growing sustainably while maintaining the values that define us — excellence, integrity, and innovation.

As a businessman, administrator, and established engineer, what do you fear most?

Sanni: I fear wasted potential, both in individuals and in society. When talents are not harnessed, when opportunities are missed because of poor leadership or neglect, it bothers me. That’s part of why I do what I do — building platforms, creating jobs, and seeking public office — to reduce waste and increase impact. 

Tell us about your days in the higher institution and which university did you attend?

Sanni: I attended the University of Ilorin. My days there were defining. It was a time of learning, but also of self-discovery and creating great friendships. I wasn’t the loudest student but was known for entrepreneurship. I recall I would drive all the way to Oyo town in my old but reliable Volkswagen Beetle to buy finished ceramic wares such as cups, flower vases, and other table ornaments and would sell the same to other students at a margin.

The turning point of that business idea was during a Valentine’s period I thought I could make more sales by getting the ceramic products personalised. So I started asking students who wanted to personalise their gift for Valentine to pay per letter on their product. I would now have the factory to engrave that message or name before glazing the item. This was a game-changer for me.  This action led to the first ceramic factory in the state called Charlie B Ceramics in the very early 90s.  

What would you refer to as your biggest achievement in your youth days and currently? 

Sanni: In my youth, I founded my first company in Toronto, Canada. Taking that leap early on, with limited resources, and building something that has lasted decades shaped my mindset. My biggest achievement is the ecosystem we’ve built at Stefolga Group — multiple businesses, hundreds of jobs directly and indirectly, and a growing network of young leaders. That gives me fulfillment.

Do you have a role model?

Sanni: Yes. I look up to people who create platforms for others to thrive while leading with integrity and purpose. People like Chief Obafemi Awolowo and Chief Olu Aboderin. Their vision for education, entrepreneurship, and development inspired me. I’ve also drawn lessons from successful entrepreneurs and technocrats who combine discipline with service. I believe leadership should be about impact, not just influence.