REFRENCE: JICA

Background
Abdulazeez Idiaro, a 9th Batch JICA ABE Initiative scholar from Nigeria, is the visionary founder of OneStopAdvert.com. With an extensive academic background in Business Administration, he holds an MBA with specializations in Marketing, Management, IT, Operations, and Supply Chain from the International University of Japan, as well as an MSc and BSc from the University of Abuja and the University of Ilorin. As a licensed advertising practitioner, Abdulazeez leverages his expertise to build strategic partnerships bridging Japanese and African markets. Through OneStopAdvert.com, he unites JICA ABE scholars, empowering them to assist Japanese companies in expanding into Africa by providing market insights, local expertise, and essential business support, ultimately facilitating cross-continental business success.

In addition to his entrepreneurial pursuits, Abdulazeez and various diverse multicultural teams has been instrumental in organizing impactful projects, including the African Symposium at IUJ, collaborations with the Unlocking Africa with UNDP, and upcoming Japan Franchising to Africa and global market with various Japanese companies and it has been registered by Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs as TICAD9 side event. His dedication to fostering sustainable Africa-Japan partnerships exemplifies his commitment to utilizing his knowledge and network to drive meaningful development. Our team met with him to share some thoughts about the platform.

Q1: What inspired you to create OneStopAdvert.com?
Abdulazeez Idiaro: As an advertising professional with over a decade of experience in marketing across multiple sectors, I’ve seen first-hand the challenges of bridging local and international markets. As a JICA ABE Scholar trying to foster business between both countries, it became clear that fostering business connections between countries needed more than just good intentions. I realized that successfully facilitating market entry for Japanese companies in Africa—and vice versa—requires a deep understanding of the local consumer tastes and preference, culture, navigating regulatory environment and economic realities. OneStopAdvert.com was born from the need to provide practical, research-backed insights and connect Japanese and African businesses through African experts who can make their products resonate locally.

Q2: How does OneStopAdvert.com assist Japanese companies interested in expanding into African markets?
The platform serves as a critical bridge for Japanese companies seeking real, on-the-ground insights that are difficult to obtain remotely. Though the platform is open to global audience, it particularly connects professionals JICA Scholars and Alumni to companies to give gain valuable understanding of market conditions, consumer preferences, and regulatory environments in a easy way. OneStopAdvert simplifies the process, allowing companies to tap into this expertise efficiently and structure their market entry strategies with more confidence. It essentially minimizes the risks associated with foreign market access and helps Japanese firms develop culturally attuned, competitive products that can make a meaningful impact.

 

 

Q3: What specific services do JICA scholars offer through the platform?
At OneStopAdvert, JICA scholars provide an array of services aimed at smoothing the path for Japanese businesses entering Africa, including:
Market Research: We conduct extensive research on local needs, regulatory requirements, and competitive landscapes, which often involves on-site assessments and networking that cannot be replicated online.
Product Development: Our experts collaborate closely with Japanese firms to ensure product-market fit, tailoring products to meet local demands and cultural preferences.
Advertising: Using targeted strategies, we promote Japanese products through effective channels—whether social media, radio, or billboards—reaching the intended audiences in their native language and cultural context.
Market Access: Through our local teams across Africa, we help Japanese companies connect with potential customers, distributors, and partners on the ground, often going beyond digital channels to reach informal networks that are crucial in these markets.

Q4: What unique qualities do JICA scholars bring to these services?
JICA scholars possess a unique cultural and professional acumen, being deeply familiar with both Japanese business practices and the African markets. This dual insight allows them to bridge cultural gaps, anticipate challenges, and tailor solutions with precision. They are well-equipped to ensure a seamless integration of Japanese products and practices into African markets and vice versa, bringing a deep understanding that is essential for genuine, sustainable market penetration.

Q5: How does OneStopAdvert align with JICA’s mission and Japan’s vision for Japan-Africa collaboration?
OneStopAdvert.com not only fosters economic growth and job creation in both regions, but it also aligns directly with Japan’s commitment to global partnership. By connecting Japanese companies with African professionals, this platform promotes a collaborative approach that supports Japan’s global vision while generating real business and economic benefits for both continents.

Q6: What impact do you envision this platform having on JICA scholars and the broader African community?
OneStopAdvert.com is designed to foster economic opportunities and build connections. For JICA scholars, it offers career-building exposure to Japanese business practices and the chance to work on high-impact projects. For the broader African community, the platform promotes employment and entrepreneurship, ultimately creating a mutually beneficial cycle of innovation and growth that strengthens economic ties between Japan and Africa.

Q7: Can you share any success stories or pilot projects involving JICA scholars?
Yes, JICA scholars have already made significant contributions. For instance, when a Japanese restaurant chain aimed to expand to Nigeria, our team conducted comprehensive market research, including competitive analysis and consumer preferences, to guide the venture. In another case, we facilitated partnerships expansion with some African universities for an international education client from USA, successfully enhancing their presence across the continent.

Q8: How can Japanese companies and JICA scholars join or get involved with OneStopAdvert.com?
Joining is simple. JICA scholars can visit our website www.onestopadvert.com, register, and gain access to resources, and opportunities. Japanese companies interested in expanding into Africa can request proposals through the site and get offers. We follow a streamlined process, from initial requests to project completion, ensuring compliance, quality, and satisfaction for all parties.