Online Integrated Solutions: Paving the golden route to Africa & The Caribbean

Mahmood Ahmadu's journey as an entrepreneur began at a tender age. In secondary school, he had developed a keen interest in business and made the best of his vacations exploring diversified ventures.
By following merchant cargo transporting goods from northern Nigeria and Cameroon to sell footwear in different markets, to reinvesting amounts to supply equipment for special events, Ahmadu began to build his portfolio of discoveries and paved the road to become the true businessman he is today.
"The turnaround in my field of business was when I bought into SWGlobal (formally known as Socket Works); my focus shifted to digitalisation and technology. In the year 2006, the company was able to secure a loan from The International Finance Corporation (IFC) that supported the company's e-government and e-education technology programmes under the global digital bridge initiatives.
This opportunity helped the company to grow and be recognised as one of the largest leading technology companies in Africa. Today, the direction of our business is in Fintech, whereby we can provide financial inclusion across Africa," said Ahmadu.
As the Chairman of Online Integrated Solutions that enjoys a presence in 26 countries, Ahmadu set his focus on Fintech in order to provide financial inclusion across Africa.
"I aim for my companies to be the 'one-stop shop' for Caribbean and African businesses investment, that is to say, my goal is to be the point of contact between the Middle East and Far East Asia into Africa and Caribbean.
"Whosoever desires to invest in these two economies, with respect to their business ventures, I intend to provide them with a trustworthy, simplified process and easy access for all business transactions throughout Africa and the Caribbean from start to finish," he said.
This includes providing assistance for flight tickets, visas, start-up company registration application process, and all the necessary information needed to commence business investment.
As a pioneer in embracing technology, Ahmadu said that he is very proud to see the widespread use of innovation across the UAE, notably with the upcoming Expo 2020.
"I feel fortunate to be a part of this economic development in the region. It provides us with an opportunity to learn technological initiatives on a global scale, to be a part of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for sustainable development," he said, adding that he is inspired by the UAE's vision to enhance youth potential and build a cultural footprint in the Arab region.
"I fully share my support because indeed the youth today are the future leaders who will shape the betterment of tomorrow," he said.
Ambitious goals
Looking ahead, Ahmadu plans to structure the organisation's projects to adapt and support technological policies and advancements in order to improve the quality of life.
"My vision from the start has not altered. I've always wished to be recognised as one of the most trusted, user-friendly and secure businesses, especially now in the Fintech industry. As with most services, we strive to improve and upgrade efficiency through minimisation of waste, being more innovative and cost-effective," he said.
Furthermore, Ahmadu shared that about 1.7 billion adults do not have access to banking worldwide, and the regions of Africa and Asia make up a large chunk of that figure, according to a report by the World Bank 2017. With this in mind, the entrepreneur is motivated to position his business venture to provide easy financial access for the public through virtual banking.
"Moreover, as a turnover, with the use of data security, we will be able to support and enhance revenue for governmental entities, thus strengthening the economy," he added.
Accomplishments
Ahmadu dedicates his success to his loved ones and considers them as an accomplishment closest to his heart. "I have had the good fortune to marry the right spouse. She has been extremely supportive through thick and thin. I have also been blessed with wonderful talented children," he said.
His list of achievements include the establishment of successful global companies in 56 locations across various time zones, a feat he is most proud of; and the means to give back to society, which provides a chance for others to achieve their dreams. He believes that this completes the "circle of life" by encouraging positive economic growth. 
Business philosophies
"I have the policy to be a self-financial vendor, taking a risk as a long-term investor I Inject and recoup financial profits for various projects and developments. Secondly, I make it a priority to always give back to the community in whichever way possible, especially in support of education as part of my corporate social responsibility. I strongly believe that CSR has the power to make a significant difference no matter how small the scale."
Words of inspiration
 "The first thing I want to mention to upcoming entrepreneurs is not to always focus on low hanging fruits, but they should aim to make a difference in the world through creative and positive thinking. Most importantly, do not to be discouraged by challenges or business hurdles. Instead, these temporary setbacks should be viewed as a chance to improve and upgrade the initial business plan and ideas.
"The question is never how to do something, but rather why to do it, and reasons are everything, if your reason (why) is justified, you will always find a way (how). Finally, I would like to give them this sage advice, 'Aim to solve difficult problems, because that is where the pot of gold is waiting'."
-farhana@khaleejtimes.com