Ayowumi Shobowale is the CEO of Fortified City, a swimming pool construction company. In this brief chat, he told ILORI TITILAYO about the success and challenges of his business. Excerpt…
What is Fortified City all about?
Fortified City is a swimming pool construction company and real estate firm.
You had a plan to delve into events management. How about that plan now?
We are yet to fully go into the entertainment business. We’re going into partnership with a firm.
What makes this business unique?
In Fortified City, we are different in our approach and service delivery, we do not compromise our quality and standard, the reason we have so many swimming pool companies around is because the system is not structured and that gives room for poor swimming pool construction companies and quacks to take over.
How do you manage your clients?
We manage them somehow and there is no difficult situation except you allow it. We have an agreement that guides our transaction. Basically, we used to sort that out before the commencement of the project.
How long have you been in business?
We have been around for about 15 years.
Share the challenges of running a business like this.
The challenge has been how to control the quacks in the industry, they make negotiations difficult and spoil business generally.
What do you do at leisure time?
I sleep when I’m on holiday. I give my body the deserved rest.
How would you define your style?
I have a unique style. I’m a cool and calm personality.
Which event shaped your childhood?
The death of my mum redefined my world and the death of my brother while in school. It was an experience.
Have you ever experienced any embarrassing moment?
Yes. That was the day I could not pay toll fees because I had my wallet in my car and went out in my friend’s car.
Which fashion items do you cherish most?
I love my wristwatch and perfume.
Tell us about your family.
I am happily married to a beautiful and understanding woman, Mrs. Oluwabanke Aderonke, and our union is blessed with two lovely kids.
