Victory Otakhor is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of OTAKSGLOBAL EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING SERVICES, a company that is driven by a commitment to bringing people together and creating memorable experiences. She speaks with Segun Adebayo about the journey so far among other issues.
THE EVENT INDUSTRY IN NIGERIA SEEMS TO BE BOOMING—WHAT FACTORS DO YOU THINK ARE DRIVING THIS GROWTH, AND HOW HAS OTAKSGLOBAL ADAPTED TO THESE TRENDS?
The Nigerian event industry is on the rise due to a perfect storm of factors, including a booming population, increased disposable income, and a growing demand for corporate events. Otaksglobal has kept pace with these trends by offering high-quality, innovative event management and catering services that cater to the evolving needs of our clients.
WHAT ARE SOME OF THE MAIN CHALLENGES YOU’VE FACED RUNNING AN EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING COMPANY IN NIGERIA, PARTICULARLY IN BENIN CITY?
In Nigeria, and especially in Benin City, the main challenges we face as an event management and catering company are unreliable electricity and inadequate infrastructure, which can hinder the smooth running of events and create logistical difficulties. Despite these challenges, we have developed effective workarounds and continue to provide high-quality services to our clients.
HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE IMPACT OF TECHNOLOGY ON EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING IN NIGERIA? ARE THERE ANY TECH TRENDS YOU SEE SHAPING THE INDUSTRY?
Technology has revolutionized event management and catering in Nigeria by introducing online tools, social media, and virtual events. These trends have made events more efficient, connected, and accessible, allowing us to reach a wider audience and provide more innovative experiences.
WHAT ROLE DO YOU BELIEVE GOVERNMENT SUPPORT COULD PLAY IN HELPING BUSINESSES LIKE YOURS THRIVE? ARE THERE SPECIFIC POLICIES OR INITIATIVES YOU THINK WOULD BE BENEFICIAL?
Government support, including infrastructure development and tax incentives, can help businesses like OTAKSGLOBAL EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING SERVICE to lower operating costs, encourage growth, and foster a thriving business environment.
HOW DO YOU HANDLE COMPETITION IN THE EVENT MANAGEMENT SPACE, GIVEN THE NUMBER OF BUSINESSES ENTERING THE INDUSTRY?
To differentiate ourselves in the competitive event management space, we focus on innovation, personalized service, and quality, ensuring that our events are always of the highest standard and tailored to our clients’ specific needs.
CAN YOU TELL US MORE ABOUT OTAKSGLOBAL EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING SERVICES AND WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO START THIS BUSINESS IN BENIN CITY, EDO STATE?
Otaksglobal Event Management and Catering Services is a Benin City-based business that combines a passion for event planning and culinary excellence, inspired by the rich cultural celebrations of Edo State. It was founded to meet the community’s demand for high-quality, stress-free event management and catering. Driven by a commitment to bringing people together and creating memorable experiences, OTAKSGLOBAL strives to offer top-notch services that stand out in the region.
WHAT UNIQUE QUALITIES DO YOU THINK SET OTAKSGLOBAL APART FROM OTHER EVENT MANAGEMENT AND CATERING SERVICES IN NIGERIA?
OTAKSGLOBAL Event Management and Catering Services sets itself apart by blending Edo State’s cultural richness with personalized event planning and high-quality catering. Known for its attention to detail, client-focused approach, and creative adaptability, OTAKSGLOBAL delivers authentic, memorable experiences that meet diverse client needs, from traditional to modern events, all while ensuring clients can enjoy their moments stress-free.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE MANAGING AN EVENT, AND WHAT LESSONS DID IT TEACH YOU ABOUT THE INDUSTRY?
Our most memorable experience was managing a large-scale corporate event, which taught us the importance of thorough planning, adaptability, and attention to detail in the event management industry.
HOW DO YOU ENSURE CONSISTENT QUALITY AND CUSTOMER SATISFACTION WITH EACH EVENT, ESPECIALLY WHEN DEALING WITH MULTIPLE CLIENTS AND LARGE GATHERINGS?
We maintain consistent quality and customer satisfaction through rigorous quality control, customer feedback, and a commitment to using high-quality ingredients, equipment, and vendors.
FINALLY, WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM GOALS FOR OTAKSGLOBAL, AND WHERE DO YOU SEE THE NIGERIAN EVENT INDUSTRY HEADED IN THE NEXT FIVE TO TEN YEARS?
Our long-term goals include expanding our services to other cities in Nigeria and becoming a leading event management and catering company in West Africa.
In the next five to ten years, we expect the Nigerian event industry to continue to grow and become more sophisticated, with a greater emphasis on technology, sustainability, and personalized experiences.
and then