Dee Utensils turns seven, CEO reflects on journey from small shop to national brand
Dee Utensils, a household and kitchenware company, has celebrated its seventh anniversary, with its Chief Executive Officer, Her Royal Majesty, Ambassador Lois Andrew Ihwo, attributing the company’s sustained growth to God’s faithfulness, resilience and consistency.
Reflecting on the milestone in a social media post on Monday, Ihwo described the company’s journey from a modest start to becoming one of Nigeria’s leading premium kitchenware brands as a testament to divine grace and unwavering commitment.
She recalled that the business began with limited capital and a small retail outlet where she managed every aspect of its operations alone.
According to her, she served simultaneously as the sales representative, cashier, inventory officer, accountant, cleaner, store manager, marketer and dispatcher, sometimes stocking the store with goods worth as little as ₦10,000.
Despite facing several challenges, including the loss of about seven social media pages over the years, Ihwo said she remained steadfast in pursuing the company’s vision, believing that temporary setbacks would not derail what she described as a God-given purpose.
Seven years later, she said Dee Utensils has grown into an organisation employing 138 people while serving customers across Nigeria and in other countries.
The entrepreneur noted that although social media often highlights the glamorous side of business, it rarely captures the sacrifices, sleepless nights, financial risks, disappointments, prayers and difficult decisions that shape entrepreneurial success.
“People see the beautiful showrooms, luxury products and celebrations, but they don’t see the silent battles behind the success. God knows the complete story,” she said.
Ihwo also disclosed that many of the company’s biggest clients deliberately avoid public attention, stressing that protecting customers’ privacy remains a core value of the business.
She said the company derives greater satisfaction from delivering quality products, building lasting trust and consistently exceeding customer expectations than from publicising every transaction.
Highlighting some of the company’s milestones, Ihwo recounted how the wife of a foreign president once travelled to Nigeria specifically to patronise Dee Utensils, describing the experience as a humbling reminder of God’s favour.
She also pointed to the firm’s expansion in international trade, recalling a period when the company imported eight containers of premium kitchenware products simultaneously, describing the investment in manufacturing, shipping, logistics and warehousing as evidence of the business’s steady growth.
Beyond commercial achievements, Ihwo said Dee Utensils has prioritised social impact by creating employment opportunities and supporting vulnerable members of society.
According to her, some staff members earn monthly salaries of ₦500,000 and above, while the company has also sponsored the education of several students, supported widows through monthly assistance and stood by employees during difficult periods while celebrating their personal and professional achievements.
She expressed appreciation to her spiritual mentors, Paul Enenche and Becky Paul-Enenche, for their prayers, guidance and encouragement throughout the company’s journey.
The Dee Utensils CEO also thanked members of staff, the management team, customers, distributors, family, friends and supporters for believing in the vision and contributing to the growth of the brand.
Encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs, Ihwo urged them not to despise humble beginnings but to remain faithful, disciplined and consistent in pursuing their dreams.
“As we celebrate seven years of Dee Utensils in Abuja, I do not celebrate buildings, containers or achievements. I celebrate God’s faithfulness,” she said.
As part of the anniversary celebrations, she invited customers and supporters to share their experiences with Dee Utensils’ products, noting that their testimonies would inspire others and further strengthen the company’s commitment to quality, trust and excellent customer service.
