Rite Foods CEO Urges Entrepreneurs To Compete Boldly With Global Brands

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, Mr. Seleem Adegunwa, has delivered a resounding call to Nigerian entrepreneurs to pursue excellence with courage, innovation, and purpose as they build competitive, world-class businesses.

Delivering the keynote address at the Stanford Seed Tactical Workshop held at the Marriott Hotel in Ikeja, Lagos, Mr. Adegunwa challenged business owners to master their craft and embrace continuous learning in the face of global competition. The event, under the Stanford Seed Africa Initiative, attracted leading entrepreneurs, strategists, and innovators committed to accelerating growth across the continent.

Speaking on the topic, “Practical Strategies for Competing with Global Brands,” Adegunwa drew from Rite Foods’ inspiring journey as a homegrown brand that has carved a significant market share despite fierce competition from global fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) giants.

“If you are willing to learn, the market will teach you,” Adegunwa told participants, stressing the need for business agility, customer-centric innovation, and operational discipline.

Sharing Rite Foods’ trajectory, he explained how the company became a trailblazer, from launching Nigeria’s first PET bottled energy drink to imprinting national symbols on its Bigi soft drink labels, a trend later emulated by competitors. He described the company’s strategy as one built on authenticity, excellence, and cultural relevance.

“Innovation may be tough, but it’s what sets you apart. Branding, when done right, doesn’t just bring success, it builds confidence and legacy,” he said.

Adegunwa emphasized that phenomenal brands are forged through clear purpose, satisfied customers, relentless innovation, operational excellence, and the boldness to take risks. He urged entrepreneurs to “get the right people on the bus” and keep refining their value proposition.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s untapped potential, he expressed strong belief in the country’s ability to produce African-born global brands that dominate both local and international markets. “This nation is ripe to birth giants. We just have to believe it, build it, and execute consistently,” he concluded.

Rite Foods Limited is a leading Nigerian manufacturer of beverages and sausages, renowned for quality, innovation, and bold marketing. Its flagship brands include Fearless Energy Drink, Bigi Soft Drinks, Sosa Fruit Drink, and Bigi and Spicy Rite Sausages. The company continues to lead the charge in reshaping Africa’s FMCG landscape through local relevance and global standards.

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By Lekan Olofinsusi