The last entrepreneur in the den in episode 7 was AARON ADEGOKE WRIGHT. He came seeking for 5 million naira, while generously offering 50% equity in INDIGENE CREATIONS- a company that promotes Nigerian and African culture through artistic products. Aaron seemed intelligent and passionate about his business, and was very articulate in his presentation. The dragons gave him their full attention. But being the astute business men and women that they are, they fired him with what could have appeared as tough questions to any other entrepreneur- but not Aaron. He was resolute and determined to slay the dragons. Even at a point when Tokunboh Ishmael indicated her interest, but warned Aaron to answer the other dragons’ questions smartly or risk loosing the interest his pitch has already generated in her buoyant pockets.

He remained unperturbed, delivering the answers to the questions like someone who was used to being in the presence of very intimidating millionaires. His idea had a lot of merit, his presentation appeared flawless, the product was patriotic, but Femi Tejuoso needed to be convinced that Aaron was proposing a viable business. He was tested with fire, bombarded with business concepts like target market, exclusivity, and demand.

But he refused to be boxed into a corner; sensing Aaron’s passion and doggedness, Alexander Amosu who is reputed to be one of the most meticulous dragons invested 500 thousand naira asking for 5% equity. Alexander Amosu’s investment was followed by Tokunboh Ishmael’s investment of 1 million naira for 15% equity; then came Chris Parkes- with his vast experience in marketing – offering his knowledge and 2 million naira for 35% equity; John Momoh liked the idea, and felt his contribution and investment would add value to Aaron’s company, so he invested 1 million naira for 15% equity. So far, Aaron had gathered 4.5 million naira, and as the rule states he would have to leave the den with nothing if he wasn’t able to raise the total amount he asked for, so his fate rested with Femi Tejuoso – who playfully reveled in the power he had to make or mar the deal, after a hearty comment, he invested 1 million naira for 20% equity.

At this point, Aaron Adegoke Wright had 5.5 million with a total of 90% equity amongst the dragons. He had walked into the den with the intentions of giving away 50% equity- yet he seemed okay with giving away 90%.

Tokunboh Ishmael came to his rescue, soliciting and negotiating with the dragons on his behalf, for them to collectively settle for less equity-stake in Aaron’s company in exchange for the full 5 million naira. With Tokunboh Ishmael prevailed upon her fellow dragons to collectively settle for 75% equity instead of the accumulated individual equity of 90% that Aaron has previously negotiated. The dragons agreed to invest 5 million naira, while they all shared the 75% equity amongst themselves.

The deal was sealed. Aaron Adegoke Wright was happy and grateful to Tokunboh Ishmael for coming to his rescue.

Aaron believes he made the right decision, and posited that though he had initially offered to give away 50% equity he was glad, and had no regret about letting the dragons take 75% since the success of the business will depend majorly on the dragons’ contribution of their network and various professional experiences.

It’s certain Aaron Adegoke Wright will profit tremendously from this business alliance with these successful men and women.