As a 300-level Electrical and Electronics Engineering student at the University of Ibadan and founder of SECOL Electric, Sodiq Korede Oladejo in this interview, shared with us how he has been able to manage his brand with academics, setting a new standard for safe, skilful installations while inspiring the next generations of electricians.

As salaam alaikum waramatullah wabarakatuuh. To begin, could you introduce yourself and share your journey so far?

Wa alaikumus Salaam waramatullah wabarakatuuh. My name is Sodiq Korede Oladejo, founder of SECOL Electric and a 300-level student of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Faculty of Engineering at the University of Ibadan. I started with a simple curiosity about electricity, then moved from learning basic wiring to handling projects and now training others. It’s been step by step, Alhamdulillah.


What inspired SECOL Electric, and what vision do you hope to achieve with it?

SECOL was inspired by the need for safe and neat electrical work. I’ve seen too many poor installations that put lives at risk. My vision is to set a standard where people can trust our work and to also raise the next generation of skilled electricians.


Looking ahead, what are your inspirations for SECOL Electric in the next few years?

In shaa Allah, I want SECOL to grow into a recognised academy and company, serving across Nigeria and even outside. I see it as a brand known for professionalism, training, and excellent service.


Running a business while being a student isn’t easy. How do you personally balance the two worlds?

It’s tough, no doubt. But planning and prioritising help me. Sometimes school comes first, sometimes business does. Delegating and managing time wisely is key.


As a Nigerian, how has the country improved or disturbed your service?

Nigeria is both a challenge and a blessing. The poor power supply makes more people go solar, which helps us. But inflation and unstable prices make running a business hard.

Every journey has its hurdles. What challenges do you often face as a Muslim studentpreneur who runs a service, and how do you deal with them?

Balancing deen, school, and business is not easy. And people sometimes underestimate you because of your age. I deal with it by holding onto salah, relying on Allah, and staying patient.


On the flip side, what are the little or big moments that keep you motivated and bring you joy?

Client satisfaction. When someone says, “Your work is neat,” that motivates me. Also, seeing my students progress and succeed gives me joy.


Lastly, what heartfelt advice would you like to share with other Muslim students thinking of starting a brand or running a service?

Start small, but start. Don’t wait for perfection. Put Allah first, be honest, stay patient, and remain consistent. Challenges will come, but a halal effort always pays off.