Supporting Small Businesses in Hard Times: A Dry Cleaner’s Story of Resilience
ES Lagos Weekly Outreach Report
Volunteer: Bolu
Week: 3rd Week of May
Date: May 17, 2026
At ESGI, we recognize that empowerment is not only about emergency relief—it is also about strengthening the hands of hardworking individuals who are striving daily to sustain their families and livelihoods. This week’s Lagos outreach highlights the story of a small business owner facing the growing pressures of an unstable economy.
A Chance Encounter in the Neighborhood
During a routine visit to a neighborhood where a senior ministry colleague resides, the volunteer met a man referred to as Axxxxxx. He operates a small dry-cleaning business and was engaged in preparing clothes for an upcoming conference order.
What began as a simple business interaction soon developed into a meaningful conversation about life, responsibility, and survival.
The Struggles Behind the Business
Axxxxxx shared openly about the difficulties he has been facing in recent months. Like many small business owners, he has been significantly affected by persistent power outages, which have made it increasingly difficult to operate his dry-cleaning services efficiently.
To keep his business running, he has had to rely heavily on fuel-powered generators, which has led to rising operational costs. The increasing price of petrol has placed additional financial strain on him.
He explained that:
Electricity instability has disrupted his operations
Fuel costs are consuming a large portion of his income
Providing for his family has become increasingly challenging
He has had to borrow money at high interest rates just to purchase basic laundry supplies
Despite these pressures, he remains committed to his work and determined not to give up on his responsibility as a provider for his household.
A Story of Quiet Resilience
What stood out most was not just the difficulty of his situation, but his perseverance. Axxxxxx continues to show resilience in the face of mounting challenges, driven by a deep sense of duty to his family.
His honesty and determination reflected the reality of many small business owners in Nigeria who are striving to survive in a tough economic environment while still maintaining dignity and responsibility.
Encouragement and Spiritual Support
During the interaction, the volunteer learned that he is a believer. Rather than focusing on evangelism, the conversation centered on encouragement and strengthening his faith.
He was encouraged to remain steadfast in his walk with God and to continue serving the Lord with fervency despite his current challenges. Sometimes, support is not only financial but also spiritual and emotional encouragement to keep going.
Financial Empowerment Through ESGI
Recognizing his immediate needs and the strain on his business, the Empowered Servants Initiative provided financial support to help ease his burden.
A total of ₦14,500 was given as relief support to assist with:
Business continuity needs
Purchase of essential supplies
Temporary financial relief for household responsibilities
This intervention was aimed at helping stabilize his situation and support his ability to continue working.
The Reality of Small Business Survival
Axxxxxx’s story reflects the broader challenges faced by small-scale entrepreneurs across urban communities:
Rising operational costs
Unstable electricity supply
Limited access to affordable credit
Pressure to provide for families under economic stress
Despite these challenges, many continue to push forward, demonstrating resilience and determination.
The Role of Empowerment
At ESGI, we believe that empowerment means standing with individuals not only in moments of crisis but also in their everyday struggles. Supporting small businesses helps preserve livelihoods, sustain families, and strengthen communities.
Even modest interventions can provide relief, encouragement, and renewed strength to continue.
Conclusion
This outreach serves as a reminder that behind every small business is a story of effort, sacrifice, and resilience. At ESGI, we remain committed to supporting individuals who are working tirelessly to build honest livelihoods despite difficult circumstances.
We give thanks for the opportunity to serve and for every life impacted through these acts of empowerment and compassion.
“May God strengthen the hands of every hardworking provider and continue to sustain their efforts.”