HOW SMALL BUSINESSES POWER STUDENT LIFE

By Oluwapelumi Ogundele

Across our dear campus, Olabisi Onabanjo University, small businesses form the invisible engine that keeps life moving for students. From food vendors and bike riders to POS agents and mini-mart owners, these micro-entrepreneurs quietly sustain daily activities, proving that the local economy thrives largely on student demand.

Their shops and kiosks are scattered across the town, especially in areas like Mini Campus, Pepsi, Konigba, and the school mini market popularly known as “Motion Ground.” In less populated areas, about five to ten of these shops can be found, while busier areas often have up to twenty.

In Nigeria, off-campus living is the norm for most university students, and OOU is no different. Students rely heavily on surrounding small businesses to meet everyday needs—meals, printing, transportation, laundry, and even electricity. “I rely on bike drivers weekly to commute around town because it’s faster, and that’s the major form of transportation outside the school premises,” said Eniola, a 200-level accounting student living at Pepsi. “Without them, transportation would be very hard since maruwa doesn’t operate in most parts of Ago.”

These small-scale entrepreneurs have created an ecosystem that supports student life and sustains Ago-Iwoye’s economy. Though there are no official records, traders and students estimate that hundreds of small businesses operate across the community, many earning between ₦10,000 and ₦100,000 daily. Combined, these micro enterprises circulate millions of naira weekly, showing how much the town’s economy depends on them.

Students also recognize how crucial these businesses are. “I mostly buy food and snacks weekly. They’re affordable, and I’d rate their importance a seven out of ten because students really depend on them.” Eniola, adds, “I mostly shop for clothing, skincare, and perfumes. They’re convenient and affordable, and it just makes things easier. I don’t have to stress to get them.”

Business owners, however, say they face several challenges, including rising fuel costs, power shortages, and fluctuating demand—especially when students leave for holidays. “When students are not around, we (traders) know,” said Mr. IK, a cloth vendor from Abia State. “We even pray the school management doesn’t give long holidays. If you are not managing, you won’t be able to continue running your business.”

Another trader, Mrs. Olayide Agboola, who sells plastic household items, shared similar frustrations. “When we tell customers prices, they complain that it’s too high, and there’s nothing we can do except beg them. Even the profit has decreased,” she said. “When students are on holiday, we just sit and watch. Any goods sold during that period is on grace.”

Despite these difficulties, small businesses continue to provide convenience, affordability, and stability. Though students and residents see them every day, their true impact often goes unnoticed. Few realize how much power these small traders hold in keeping Ago-Iwoye’s economy alive. From offering quick access to cash and essential services to keeping daily life running smoothly, their contributions remain the quiet force behind the town’s rhythm.