Afrinection has grown by leaps and bounds since we launched. Every week, scores of new entrepreneurs, employers, professionals, and start-ups sign up for a free profile - or even as advertising partners. Take Bayo Baker (50) from Nigeria. As a child, the political sciences graduate wanted to become a responsible motivator and flourishing achiever. And so, ten years ago, after a few decades of working for other companies, he set up his own venture: Bell Bond, a what he calls a New Millennium Innovations, Brand Strategies & Marketing company. We decided this made for a good reason to interview Bayo!

Q. What does Bell Bond specialise in?

A. We specialise in brand communications and marketing management; project management & being a business representative in Nigeria; developing image, service and growth strategies, corporate and governmental relations services; promotions, events and sponsorship; advertising, printing and publications as well as leadership training.

Q. Tell us a little bit about your background?
A. I was born to pass through hardship and the severe challenges of life. I am, however, grateful for these challenges as they made me more determined to come out of the furnace on the other side and they have helped me to care and give back to those who are in need.  

Q. You can be president of Nigeria for one day: what would you do to help your fellow entrepreneurs?
A. I would set up Africa’s first largest boot camp for the submission of entry– business proposals. The team would select the best and most viable proposals, fine-tune these proposals and mentor the selected entrants through extensive and effective training strategies and workshops, and other initiatives. We would then proceed to set them up financially for various pilot projects. This should be an annual thing.

Q. Where do you see your company and yourself in five years from now? What are your goals?
A. I see an empire of sub-essential businesses and me as the rugged builder who looks back gratefully at the fact that he didn't let killer challenges win him over. My goal is to be the very best and to be a merited and inspiring reference to current and future generations. 

Q. What are the key three things rookie entrepreneurs should take into account when going the
entrepreneurial route?
A. Dare to dream. Keep your focus. Be disciplined

Q. Who are your male and your female African entrepreneurial role models, and why?
A. My male Africa role model is Jason Njoku, also from Nigeria. My female role model is Bethlehem Alemu from Ethiopia. Both are wonderfully inspiring entrepreneurs with incredible start-up stories and an unstoppable drive and focus.