Unwavering Faith in the Face of Persecution: A Nigerian Leader's Journey of Impact and Prosperity

Bankole's path to business process outsourcing was unconventional. A series of car accidents, including one that cracked his skull, served as a wake-up call. He realized he needed to shift away from a physically demanding furniture business. This transition occurred alongside the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when he felt the world changing and recognized the need to adjust. He started learning new skills, initially intending to immigrate. However, a crucial moment came when he had to decide whether to leave Nigeria or invest in a business opportunity that required the savings he had set aside for emigration.  

Inspired by Warren Buffett's idea of "Be fearful when others are greedy, and greedy when others are fearful," he saw Parasol BPO as more than just a way to make money. He recognized it as a chance to create impact. “It’s not that it’s simple to make money,” he says, “but it’s more complex to find a way to make money that also makes an impact.” This decision, a true act of faith, has turned into a successful enterprise that has provided over 300,000 work hours to businesses worldwide.  

Transforming Lives Through Economic Empowerment  

The impact of Parasol BPO is personal for Bankole. He tells the story of a young woman in Makurdi, a town plagued by violence, whose monthly income grew from $40 to $500 through her job at Parasol. This tenfold increase allowed her to support her family and send her younger brother to college, highlighting how economic opportunity can transform vulnerable communities. “Those stories make it worth it for us,” Bankole says, emphasizing the significant changes their work brings to areas where such chances are rare.  

Living and working in Northern Nigeria, Bankole is very aware of the ongoing persecution of Christians. He describes a reality where violence is a constant threat, a normalized part of daily life. He recalls a frightening childhood incident during a riot when local children protected his father in gratitude for his kindness. Recently, he shares a chilling experience of praying in church for a respected leader and his family who had been kidnapped, all while the government publicly denied these atrocities.  

Empowering Communities Amid Persecution  

Despite this tough reality, Bankole holds a strong sense of purpose. He believes much of the violence stems from poverty, and he aims to empower people economically. “My take on that has always been to find a way to get people, I don’t know, to put it crudely, richer,” he states. He envisions a Nigeria where many prosperous citizens can create positive change from the ground up, rather than waiting for solutions from above. His mission is clear: “build things that build Nigerians.”  

Bankole’s faith is not just a personal belief; it forms the foundation of his business philosophy. He is inspired by the Parable of the Talents, understanding that there is no neutral ground concerning the gifts and opportunities given by God. “Once that talent or knowledge or information or opportunity has been placed in your hands, you have to get locked in,” he asserts. This belief drives his commitment to mentorship, free training, and creating a business model that maximizes opportunities for others.  

Faith-Driven Business for Lasting Impact  

He stresses the importance of leaving every space better than you found it, a lesson learned from a mentor years ago. This principle guides Parasol BPO’s strategy. Unlike many BPOs in Nigeria that merely connect talent, Parasol focuses on solving issues like unreliable internet and power, ensuring staff can perform effectively. This commitment to improving the industry has become a key advantage for them.  

For Bankole, combining faith and business is not about separating the spiritual from the practical; it's about blending them. “Pragmatism will work. It will get you far but when you layer your faith on it, It just takes your business to a different level,” he advises. His life and work embody this truth, showing how deep wisdom and practical actions can build a successful enterprise while bringing hope and prosperity to a struggling nation.