10 Years in Computer Village: Hard Lessons From Nigeria’s Laptop Business

After 10 years of buying and selling laptops in Computer Village, I have learned that the business is far more complex than simply buying cheap and selling high. A deal can look profitable on paper, then turn into a loss when stock stays too long, prices change or unexpected repairs appear. One bad buying decision taught me to look beyond the expected margin. Before I buy any laptop now, I ask how quickly it will sell, who needs it, what could go wrong, how much capital will be tied down and what happens if market prices drop. The cheapest laptop is not always the best deal. Hidden faults, weak batteries, overheating, motherboard issues and previous repairs can turn cheap stock into a costly mistake. Cash flow also matters more than having plenty of inventory, because slow-moving laptops can trap money that the business needs. Reputation, good buying decisions, proper records, reliable suppliers, repeat customers and extra services such as upgrades, repairs and corporate supply are what build long-term value. Revenue is not profit, and every loss is expensive tuition if I fail to learn from it. What business mistake taught you a lesson you will never forget?

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