When Doors Close, God Opens Gates: Our Journey to #TheFineryIkoyi
Udo Okonjo LL.M Lond, M.IOD UK
🌍Independent Board Director |International Lawyer | Impact Investor|Leadership & Corporate Governance | VC @ Fine and Country WA | Member Forbes Business Council| Chevening Scholar |Certified Berkeley Coach
Have you ever been in a situation where everything felt like it was falling apart?
Let me share a story of how we found purpose in the midst of chaos—a story of divine breakthroughs, open doors, and unexpected grace.
Years ago, Fine and Country West Africa faced one of its greatest challenges. Our office on Victoria Island had been home for seven years, a place where dreams were built, and excellence flourished. But then, out of nowhere, everything shifted.
Our landlord suddenly raised the rent from N15M PA to a staggering ₦50M x 4 years upfront—an impossible demand during a recession. It wasn’t just a rent increase; it felt like the ground beneath us had been pulled away.
With no room for negotiation and no notice, we were forced to leave the space we had poured so much into. The reality was sobering—we had no alternative location, no immediate plan. For months, some of our Fine & Country Champions worked from home while the rest of us literally worked "on the streets." Every day was a test of faith, resilience, and creativity. It felt like everything was falling apart, but in hindsight, it was God orchestrating a divine repositioning.
How an Unexpected Eviction Led to Our Greatest Opportunity Yet
In the midst of the uncertainty, God led us to an incredible new location— #TheFineryIkoyi. This wasn’t just any office; it was an oasis beyond what we could have imagined.
With mature palm trees, serene surroundings, and an environment perfectly suited for innovation and transformation, it exceeded every expectation. And the best part? It came at a fraction of the cost we were previously paying.
Looking back, what seemed like chaos was God’s way of opening a greater door. This new space wasn’t just about business; it symbolized restoration, purpose, and His faithfulness.
The vision for #thefineryikoyi came to me so clearly—complete with a swimming pool, palm trees, and the life-giving initiatives we’d host there.
Today, it’s not only our office but also a hub for transformational events, a champions’ center, and a space for meaningful connections and innovation.
Lessons From the Journey
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1. God Always Sees the Bigger Picture
When doors close, it’s often because God is about to open gates you never imagined. What felt like an unfair and abrupt ending was God positioning us for something better.
2. Trust the Process, Even When It’s Painful
In the moment, it was hard to see how being forced out of our office could lead to good. But God was working behind the scenes, preparing a greater blessing.
3. Excellence and Faith Open Doors
Even in our toughest season, we stayed committed to excellence. That faithfulness, paired with unwavering trust in God, created opportunities beyond our imagination.
4. Gratitude Changes the Narrative
Instead of focusing on what was lost, we chose gratitude—for the lessons, the journey, and the new doors God was opening. Gratitude turns setbacks into testimonies.
A Reminder to Trust the Story
This experience was not just about relocation; it was a lesson in faith and resilience. It taught us that even when things seem out of control, God’s hand is steady, guiding us toward His perfect plan.
So, dear friend, if you’re in a season where it feels like everything is falling apart, remember this: don’t draw conclusions until the story is over. Trust that God’s hand is working in unseen ways for your ultimate good.
As we celebrate #17YearsOfImpact with Fine and Country West Africa, this journey is a reminder of the power of faith, perseverance, and gratitude. #thefineryikoyi represents more than a location—it is a legacy of resilience and God’s faithfulness
With Gratitude and Purpose,
Your Chief Igniter
Udo Okonjo
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Sustainable Food System | Agribusiness | Rural Development
3wIfesinachi, don’t draw conclusions until the story is over.
Partner, New Culture Designs. Partner, Managing Director, Ganttworks Business Development Ltd Partner, Solgreen Agribusiness and Biofuels Limited
3wI know my seeing today and reading the post below by Udo Okonjo was no coincidence as all I hear is a voice from God. Thank you Udo Okonjo LL.M Lond, M.IOD UK for being the vessel. Watch this space....
Founder/CEO, Merciport Group | Downstream (LPG) Energy Expert | Chairperson, Shunammite Foundation | Advisory Board Member | IWEC Businesswoman of the Year (2018) | Founder, Biofuels Solutions Ltd, UK.
3wThank you so much for sharing and being light 💡
EDENVILLE PROPERTIES LIMITED
3wThank you for sharing this Udo. Congratulations to you and your team as you celebrate your 17th Anniversary.
Director, HR Operarions, Recruitment and Client Services at African Development Bank Group
1moThis is a very wonderful message. It resonates with me. Always good not to be distracted by the noise during the storm. In the end the storm often turns out to be the much needed catalyst to jolt us off the comfort zone. Very inspiring indeed.