08/07/2025
FROM THE DESK OF Sim Shagaya
🍓 Call for Entries: The Annona Legacy Challenge
A Once-in-a-Lifetime Opportunity to own a majority stake in a Beloved Nigerian Jam Brand
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Over 6 years ago, I founded a small fruit jam business with the dream of celebrating Nigeria’s rich fruit heritage. Using the strawberries and mangoes and other fruit found in Nigeria's middle belt, Annona Jams was born out of a simple belief: that something good, local, and lovingly made could stand the test of time.
Today, Annona has found its way into homes across the country. But as I turn my attention to other life pursuits—and prioritize my peace of mind—I’ve decided to step away from ownership. Rather than simply sell the company, I’ve chosen to do something different.
I’m Giving It Away.
That’s right. Through this open call, I intend to transfer my majority ownership of Annona Jams to one remarkable young Nigerian entrepreneur with vision, grit, and heart.
And to preserve fairness and integrity, the winner must be someone who is personally unknown to me, my wife Anthonia, or my friend and associate Esigie Aguele who jointly will select the winner.
Who We're Looking For
Are you:
Between 21 and 40 years old?
Deeply passionate about food, agriculture, or small-scale manufacturing?
Hungry to lead and grow a national brand rooted in creativity and community?
A believer in local value-addition, sustainable enterprise, and the power of bold ideas?
Completely unaffiliated with me, my wife Anthonia, or Esigie Aguele in any way?
Then this challenge is for you.
What You Must Submit
Write a compelling essay (max 2,000 words) that answers:
1. What would you do with Annona Jams if it became yours?
2. How would you grow the business—creatively and commercially?
3. What values would define your leadership?
4. How would you collaborate with and support the existing Annona team, some of whom are minority shareholders?
5. Tell us about yourself: your journey, your aspirations, and why this matters to you.
Supplementary materials (optional but encouraged):
Photos or samples of any past food or agribusiness work
Links to a website, CV, or portfolio
Letters of support or references
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Very Important
To ensure a fair and transparent process:
> Any applicant who attempts to contact me, Anthonia, or Esigie directly—through email, phone, social media, or any other channel—will be automatically disqualified.
All communication must go through the official submission email listed below.
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What the Winner Receives
Majority ownership of Annona Jams, including intellectual property, assets, and customer goodwill.
A 6-month mentorship window with me and select advisors (if desired)
A starter grant of up to ₦10 million to scale operations (optional, subject to conditions)
Access to an advisory board of experienced professionals in food, branding, and business
Please Note:
The name “Annona Jams” (save for the removal of one of the "n's" which i have long felt a bit awkward) must be preserved. It is part of the brand’s identity and heritage.
The shares may not be sold, transferred, or otherwise disposed of for a period of 10 years from the date of transfer. This ensures long-term stability and commitment.
The ability to mentor and work collaboratively with the existing Annona team—some of whom are minority shareholders—is very important to me. Leadership here is as much relational as it is strategic.
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Key Dates
Application Deadline: 18th July 2025
Shortlist Announced: 15th August 2025
Final Selection & Winner Announced: 15th September 2025
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Selection Process
All submissions will be reviewed by a small selection committee composed of myself, my wife Anthonia, and my friend and associate Esigie Aguele.
We will assess applications based on clarity of vision, depth of commitment, originality, leadership potential, and alignment with the spirit of Annona Jams.
For Shortlisted Participants:
Shortlisted candidates will be invited to:
Meet with the existing management team
Review the company’s financial records and basic performance metrics
Ask questions and evaluate the business for themselves before final selection
We believe this is not just a gift—but a responsibility. It must be embraced with clear eyes and full commitment.
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How to Apply
Submit your entry via email to:
[email protected]
Subject line: “Annona Legacy Challenge – [Your Full Name]”
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A Final Note from Me
This is not an entirely selfless act.
What I get out of this—what moves me to do this—is the way it ineffably answers a question within my soul about the material accumulation of wealth in an age when society seems obsessed with its pursuit. This gesture, I hope, is a small but meaningful way to redirect energy: from possession to purpose, from acquisition to contribution. It also helps me answer questions I often pose to myself about why I build businesses.
And I have one hope for the winner above all else:
That you build something far greater than I ever imagined.
That you create meaningful jobs, touch lives, grow something beautiful and enduring—and that someday, in your own way, you find novel and powerful ways to pay this gesture forward.
If you’ve ever dreamed of building something lasting, this is your invitation.
And if we've never met—and neither have Anthonia nor Esigie—even better.
We look forward to meeting you—from a distance, and at the right time.
Warmly,
Sim
Founder, Annona Grains & Mills Limited
