VDM truly doesn’t understand how business works, and I honestly pity those who will blindly send money directly to companies in China just because he introduced them. Imagine him claiming that an electric bike sold for ₦1.5 million in Nigeria is being sold for only ₦400,000 in China — and some people actually believed it!
Did he even know that those bikes don’t come with batteries? You have to buy the battery separately, and in many cases, the battery costs almost the same as the bike itself — sometimes even more. Some batteries sell for ₦400k, ₦300k ₦150k ₦75k and ₦60k and above depending on their voltage.
VDM also failed to tell you about the shipping cost. Do you know that shipping and clearing that same bike from China will cost you over ₦400,000? Business isn’t as simple as “1 plus 1.” There are always hidden costs, risks, and processes involved.
Now, he travelled to China, telling people not to send money to Igbo businessmen over there again— the same people who have built solid business relationships with Chinese suppliers over the years. He is encouraging people to send money directly to companies, claiming it’s cheaper, while ignoring the important role our people play as trusted middlemen who protect buyers from being cheated. And some Igbo people are even clapping for him.
Let’s be sincere — if you’re not a big importer, and you try to transact in China without involving a trusted Nigerian over there, you’ll regret it. Chinese suppliers can frustrate you beyond words. Even top importers still rely on Nigerians in China to help verify goods and supervise shipments before they leave the port.
VDM’s problem seems to be that Igbo people are excelling in business globally. Tomorrow, he might even ask you to come and rent a shop at Onitsha Main Market or Alaba International Market to “compete” with those who have spent years mastering the trade.
The truth is, every business has its secrets. That’s why an Igbo man spends at least a year learning a trade before setting up his own. Yet, some of you think you can jump into importing just because VDM said bikes are sold for ₦400,000 in China.
Let me shock you — the profit margin on that particular bike is rarely more than ₦100k after all the expenses. But if you still want to try, you’re welcome to the business. There are enough shops at Ariaria, Alaba, main market and Trade Fair to accommodate every new “importer.”
At the end of the day, no matter the noise, our people in China will continue to do well. Hard work, experience, and trust still remain the true foundation of business success.
Source: This Is Bendel
