Surviving decades: The Impact of building a business on foundation of excellence

…the Kreston Pedabo story

As the economic downturn continues to bite, several companies have had to close shop in the past five years, while others have leveraged mergers and acquisitions to stay afloat.

Surviving 10 years has become a great feat in Nigeria as several odds fight against the survival of businesses in Nigeria.

Nigeria’s business terrain is one of the most stringent and most expensive in the world as businesses face challenges ranging from power to distribution, to poor infrastructure, statutory agencies and government bodies seeking various kinds of fees amongst several others.

Business experts have said that therefore, surviving a decade and remaining profitable in this tough business environment would indeed take excellence—a journey of resilience and perseverance in the midst of adversity and failure.

Founded by Ajibade Fashina, Kreston Pedabo, and Albert Folorunsho, the story of Kreston Pedabon, a professional services firm providing audit and assurance, tax compliance and advisory, financial advisory and risk management and several other specialised support services to clients across Nigeria for decade, resonates with the spirit of consistency and high intension, despite challenges.

Speaking during a symposium titled ‘Surviving Decades: The Impact of Building a Business on a Foundation of Excellence,’ and the unveiling of Kreston Pedaboas part of its silver jubilee celebration, at the Balmoral Convention Centre, Federal Palace Hotel & Casino, Victoria Island, Lagos, Ajibade Fashina, managing partner, Kreston Pedabo said Pedabo is built on a foundation of strong relationship, culture, and integrity.

He said from day one, they relied on and built a strong relationship with clients; a relationship that is characterized by mutual trust, respect, effective communication, and collaboration with all partners. This, he said played a crucial role in our growth and success in several ways.

Culture

According to Ajibade Fashina, Pedabo has cultivated a strong culture with good lines on internal communication, mutual understanding, and shared obligation amongst employees.

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Integrity

Fashina said by upholding the integrity of the profession, Pedabo demonstrate commitment to providing reliable, trustworthy and timely services.

He said this not only enhances its reputation, but also contributes to maintaining public confidence in the services that we offer.

“As we look back on the past 25 years, we are reminded of the meaningful relationships we have built, the value we have added to our clients’ businesses, the numerous young men and women we have nurtured and transformed, and the improvements we have brought to our profession.

“These are testaments to the power of our resilience, the faith we have in our partnerships, growing collaborations, and our shared vision for sustainable businesses and overall, a better business environment to engage in.

“On this day, we not only celebrate our achievements but also recommit ourselves to the values that have guided us throughout this journey. We pledge to continue making a difference, to innovate and adapt to the changing times, and to remain visionary as we embrace the new opportunities that lie ahead.

“This Silver Jubilee celebration is not just about the past; it is very meaningfully about the future. It serves as a reminder that our work is not done, that there are still challenges to be faced, and that there is so much more we can achieve together. Let us use this milestone as a catalyst for renewed energy, inspiration, and determination to make an even greater impact in the years to come,” Fashina explained.

Herbert Wigwe, CEO Access Holding during his keynote address at the 25th-year anniversary of Pedabo stressed that excellence would never reward mediocrity but would consistently look for ways to raise the bar.

Wigwe who was represented by Iyabo Soji-Okusanya, Executive Director, Corporate and Investment Banking Division said Pedabo today is forming a different alliance with an international brand and there are expectations for successes even in a decade to come.

“Those who choose excellence are accountable for their actions. Choosing excellence means being resilient at all times.

“You persevere and push yourself relentless forward in the face of adversity, setbacks and failures,” Wigwe added.

In his goodwill message, Innocent Iweka Okwuosa, the 59th ICAN president congratulated Ajibade Fashina and Albert Folorunsho, Managing Consultant, Pedabo for the great achievements they have recorded with Kreston Pedabo.

“Over the past quarter-century, Kreston Pedabo has not only demonstrated proficiency in the accountancy and advisory services but has also consistently raised the bar for professionalism and client satisfaction. Your journey is a story of growth, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence.

“Today, the impact of Kreston Pedabo extends far beyond the numbers. Your contributions to the business landscape, your role in shaping the future of the accountancy profession, and your commitment to fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation are truly commendable,” Okwuosa stated.