From Civil Engineering To Fashion Empire: How Victor Alao Is Redefining Entrepreneurship

Born in Ibadan but raised in Ogbomoso, Victor Alao’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and relentless pursuit of self-reliance. From sketching architectural plans as a child to founding thriving fashion and e-commerce brands, his journey reflects the power of passion and adaptability in the face of Nigeria’s tough business environment.

Today, as the founder of CORRECTSHAPERS and a graduate of Strategic Engineering Management from the University of Derby, United Kingdom, Alao blends engineering precision with entrepreneurial flair to build businesses that compete both locally and internationally.

In this interview with Ayobami Agboola, he shares his inspiring path, the challenges of doing business in Nigeria, lessons from the UK, and advice to Nigerian youths striving for self-reliance.

Excerpt;

Can you introduce yourself and share your personal background with our readers?

My name is Victor Alao. I was born in 1992 in Ibadan, Oyo State, but grew up and schooled in Ogbomoso. My late mother, popularly known at LAUTECH as “Mama Nike,” shaped my curiosity and determination from a young age. By age seven, I could design architectural plans, build models, and even power toys with electric motors. Creativity and problem-solving came naturally to me.

Tell us about your educational journey. How did it shape your career path?

I attended LAUTECH Staff School and later Federal Government College, Ogbomoso. I wasn’t a typical classroom learner, but I thrived in technical and creative tasks. After losing my mother in 2004, my aunt—an academic staff at LAUTECH—raised me and gave me a strong foundation. I later studied Civil Engineering at LAUTECH, where my interest in design and business deepened.

How did Civil Engineering connect with your entrepreneurial journey?

Even as a student, I ventured into catfish farming and later founded DIPDEAL in Ilorin in 2016, focusing on vintage fashion. I built the website, mobile app, and even fabricated equipment myself. That marked the beginning of my fashion entrepreneurship journey. My engineering background trained me to think structurally and solve problems—skills I now apply to business.

What inspired your international pursuit?

In 2023, I moved to the UK for a Master’s in Strategic Engineering Management at the University of Derby. It gave me exposure to structured business systems, global standards, and advanced manufacturing techniques. I’ve since applied those lessons to expand my businesses back home.

Every entrepreneur faces challenges. What were yours, and how did you overcome them?

In Nigeria, customer mistrust of online prepayments was a big challenge. We introduced Payment-on-Delivery, which created logistical issues. I personally joined the delivery team to understand customers and improve service. The COVID-19 lockdown also disrupted business, but I used the time to restructure, optimize sales channels, and focus on e-commerce platforms like Konga, Instagram, and Facebook.

What strategies helped you stand out in Nigeria’s competitive market?

Affordability, creativity, and consistency. With CORRECTSHAPERS, we made high-quality fashion affordable to the local market. We also partnered with e-commerce platforms, giving us access to over 200 million customers. Monitoring trends, expanding production, and prioritizing customer satisfaction kept us competitive.

Tell us about your current business ventures.

I currently run CORRECTSHAPERS, producing hoodies, joggers, jackets, combat trousers, and women’s body shapers. We emphasize customization, quality, and affordability. We’ve built a strong reputation for timely delivery and customer-focused service across multiple platforms.

How do you compare doing business in the UK versus Nigeria?

The UK has structure and predictability, with systems that work effectively. Nigeria on the other hand, is more dynamic, with significant infrastructural and systemic challenges. However, Nigeria’s environment also sharpens resilience and fosters innovation. Both environments have shaped me differently.

What recognition have you received so far?

In 2022, my brand Hoodhub topped Konga Fashion Week sales, with thousands of orders. I later received an award sponsored by Verve Card and Konga for outstanding performance, which was a huge validation of my work.

What’s your advice to young Nigerians, especially students?

Identify your passion and develop your skills consistently. Academic success is good, but practical skills, creativity, and resilience often define real success. Start small, use the resources around you, and focus on creating value. Challenges will come, but they’re also opportunities to grow.