I Built Sahad with My Savings as a Messenger

The Rise of Sahad Stores: A Journey of Resilience and Vision

Sahad Stores has become a symbol of success in northern Nigeria, particularly in Kano. It’s more than just a supermarket chain; it’s a legacy built by one man’s determination and vision. Alhaji Ibrahim Mijinyawa, the founder of Sahad, was born in Mandawari, Kano, and his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a business magnate is nothing short of inspiring.

Early Life and Education

Mijinyawa’s early life was marked by challenges. He was born after years of his parents’ childlessness, and shortly after his birth, his father left his mother, who was the only child of her grandmother. His grandmother, Mari Mai Koko, took on the responsibility of raising him. Despite not attending an Islamic or Western school initially, Mijinyawa recognized the importance of education and eventually enrolled in a boarding school. Later, he joined a formal evening school known as Festival School, run by Igbo teachers. Throughout this period, his only support came from his grandmother, who was highly respected in Mandawari.

Starting the Business Journey

Mijinyawa’s entrepreneurial journey began as a messenger in a company, earning between £7 and £10 a month. He saved diligently in an Antikurya, a hidden pocket used for keeping money safe. After nine months, he decided to start selling clothes using a bicycle. He would buy remnants from second-hand clothing vendors and resell them at places like Tashar Kuka and Tashar Nasarawa. There were days when he went three days without making a single sale.

Eventually, he built a wooden kiosk, which was a novel idea at the time. His vision was to turn it into a proper fabric shop. As the business grew, he moved to Kantin Kwari Market near Yan Tebur. However, a change in market regulations forced traders to relocate to Kofar Wambai Market. Mijinyawa adapted by selling his stall and reinvesting in his kiosk. He developed a strategy of retailing on his bicycle in the morning and selling at his kiosk in the evening.

Challenges and Strategic Decisions

During Shehu Shagari’s administration, Mijinyawa faced significant challenges. However, he remained resilient. One of the most notable moments in his business history was the renaming of his shop from “Fahad” to “Sahad.” This change occurred during the Iraq War when Saddam Hussein was in power. People advised Mijinyawa to change his shop’s name to avoid any potential consequences. Without the funds to replace the LED signage, he experimented with names, eventually settling on “Sahad.”

This decision proved to be a turning point. The name drew attention, and the store became even more popular. Radio stations broadcasted that a store had changed its name to “Saddam,” further boosting its visibility.

Expansion and Diversification

As the fabric business flourished, Mijinyawa expanded his operations by traveling to source premium goods like women’s lace and English wax. At that time, he was the only one in Kano selling such items. He later shifted his business line, buying land on Mandawari Road to build a store named Fahad (later renamed Sahad). The business continued until a coup led by Buhari, which forced him to move his shop again.

Mijinyawa also embraced new trends, such as the introduction of Batik, a new brand of women’s wrapper. Eventually, he opened a shop in Abuja, where he bought land and built a store in Zone 4, with his house on top and commercial shops below.

Pricing Strategy and Customer Retention

Mijinyawa’s pricing strategy is simple yet effective. He does not offer goods on credit but reduces the cost of goods. For instance, if something sells for N1,000 elsewhere, he might sell it for N950 or N980. This approach has helped him attract, win, and retain customers.

Expansion Across Nigeria

Beyond Kano and Abuja, Mijinyawa has established outlets in several states. These include Jigawa, Minna, Maiduguri, Bauchi, and Kaduna. Each expansion was influenced by the support he received from former governors, who allocated land for his businesses.

Community Contributions

Mijinyawa’s contributions extend beyond business. He has built a hospital, a school, and a mosque, all with the intention of serving the community and earning lasting spiritual benefits. His family plays a crucial role in these efforts, with some of his children studying medicine to help manage the hospital.

Global Reach and Future Plans

Despite his lack of formal education and limited English skills, Mijinyawa has traveled to every country in the world, conducting business in each. However, he has no plans to expand his business outside Nigeria. His focus remains on ensuring that his fellow countrymen benefit from his wealth and the opportunities it creates.

Personal Life and Legacy

Mijinyawa has four wives and nineteen children. Some of his children have chosen to study medicine to help manage the hospital he built. This family effort reflects his commitment to community service and long-term impact.