editor“Wa ka di ninu iyo” is a sarcastic proverb that means you will hit maggots in a bag of salt, which literally is quite impossible, reason being that salt is known for its preservative qualities, so expecting maggots in a bag of salt suggests something surprising and ultimately contradictory, but on the flip side the phrase might just be indicating that even in seemingly perfect or well-preserved conditions, problems can still arise. Whenever my late mum uses the phrase, it means if you go ahead with that plan or decision then you should expect her sore surprise.
Let’s just say the essence of the proverb highlights the possibility of unexpected or incongruous situations.
There are Hidden Problems in virtually any venture, suggesting that even in situations where everything seems perfect or well taken care of, underlying issues or problems can exist, surprises can spring up which in turn
reflects the idea that life is full of moments to consider that things are not always as they seem.
In a slight detour, It might also emphasize the need for vigilance and thoroughness, as issues can arise where they are least expected.
This kind of proverb reflects a deep understanding of the complexities of life or this natural world. There is a common theme in Yoruba proverbs that often gets them to draw from everyday experiences and observations to impart wisdom and teach substantial moral lessons.
In the world of Nigerian printing, one would expect a domain marked by precision, reliability, and excellence based on the caliber of educated people in the industry. However, much like finding maggots in a bag of salt, unexpected and ironic flaws lurk beneath the surface, where minute issues often surprise even the most seasoned professionals, highlighting the need for greater vigilance and sustainable reform. Let’s delve into the various aspects of the Nigerian printing industry where these hidden problems can be found.
- Quality Control: That illusion of Perfection
One would assume that stringent quality control measures would be a given in the printing industry. In fact, many printing firms boast of top-notch standards while delivering subpar products. It’s akin to expecting pristine salt and discovering maggots instead. The reality often reveals a lack of attention to detail, resulting in inconsistencies in print quality, color accuracy, and finishing. The main reason is that printing is technical yet many print-illiterates approach it solely from the commercial angle, profitability and the quickest return of investment at the expense of those things that elongate the life of the business.
- Equipment and Maintenance: The Façade of Modernity
Despite the presence of state-of-the-art machinery in numerous printing houses, breakdowns and malfunctions are common. This discrepancy can be compared to finding maggots in what should be a preservative environment. The root cause? Poor maintenance practices, not choosing the right equipment in the first place and a reluctance to invest in proper training for equipment operators. What appears to be cutting-edge technology on the surface is often marred by neglect and inefficiency. I have always wondered why our printing technology graduates opt for estimation and press management jobs rather than man the most expensive asset in the organization- the printing equipment!
- Workforce Competence: The Qualified but Incompetent
The printing industry is filled with professionals who, on paper seem highly qualified. Yet, in practice, their skills often fall short. This situation is reminiscent of finding unexpected maggots in a bag of salt. The lack of continuous professional development and the prevalence of outdated practices contribute to this competence gap, resulting in errors and delays that undermine on time productivity.
- Customer Service: The Hollow Promise of Excellence
Many printing companies in Nigeria pride themselves on excellent customer service. However, customers frequently encounter delays, miscommunication, and unmet expectations. It’s a classic case of the maggots-in-salt phenomenon, promises of stellar service masking a reality of inefficiency and frustration. The disconnect between customer expectations and actual service delivery needs to be addressed to restore trust in the industry. Can printing indeed not change the skit of “what we ordered versus what we got” that has paraded the entire fabric of service delivery?
- Transparency and Integrity: The Shadow of Corruption
Corruption and lack of transparency are pervasive issues that taint the Nigerian printing industry. From inflated costs to favoritism in contract awards, these unethical practices are the maggots contaminating what should be a bag of pure salt. This not only undermines fair competition but also erodes the industry’s reputation, making it difficult for honest businesses to thrive, there are many A listed printshops that won’t survive on a level playing ground because they only strive on inflated contracts, I agree that businesses can leverage on opportunistic sales but this cannot be the business model for a long lasting business that will become a legacy project for the community as we hunger for print businesses that will surpass multiple generations.
- Sustainability: The Greenwashed Reality
In an era where sustainability is a buzzword, many printing firms claim to adopt eco-friendly practices. However, a closer look often reveals minimal genuine effort towards environmental responsibility. This is another instance of discovering maggots in a bag of salt: grandiose claims of sustainability that fall flat upon scrutiny. True commitment to sustainable practices remains superficial and inconsistent, perhaps we should blame the government also for not articulating and implementing legislation that will walk the talk.
- Buying equipment without adequate after-sales support is like buying a new generator and then discovering it only runs on moonlight and miracles! This of course will be like tales by moonlight where load upon load of maggots is heaped out of salt. I know the investors are sometimes sold a lie that the equipment can be fixed online at all times, meanwhile there are times that a predictive maintenance where you have a fixed cost will be better for planning and it is expected that every smart investor device their due diligence means.
Let us start to conclude.
The Nigerian printing industry, much like the metaphorical bag of salt, often hides unexpected flaws that surprise even the most diligent observers. From quality control lapses to workforce incompetence, customer service failures, corruption, and sustainability greenwashing, these hidden maggots undermine the sector’s integrity and growth.
Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort towards transparency, continuous professional development, rigorous quality control, and genuine commitment to ethical and sustainable practices. Only then can the Nigerian printing industry truly rid itself of these hidden flaws and achieve the excellence it outwardly projects.
By shining a light on these problems and actively working towards solutions, we can transform the industry from one plagued by hidden maggots to one of genuine purity and reliability, meeting the high standards it promises but again what do I know than just simply keeping it real…
editor
