But on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, during QNET’s exclusive webinar themed “Beyond VCON: Media Insights from VCON 2025”, a group of Nigerian journalists sought to challenge that instinct with first-hand experiences from the company’s V-Convention in Penang, Malaysia.

The webinar, held via Zoom, brought together journalists, editors, and media executives who attended QNET’s flagship convention, a global event that hosted over 10,000 entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators from more than 50 countries. 

The webinar was a post-convention reflection space for participants to share their experiences, discuss lessons on ethical business practices, and explore the future of direct selling within Nigeria’s digital economy.

Moderated by Thelma Ilems, the webinar featured seasoned journalists Sulaiman Aledeh, Adeyemi Adepetun of The Guardian, and Juliet Umeh of Vanguard Newspaper. Also present was Ayokunmi O. Solesi, QNET’s general manager for sub-Saharan Africa.

Ayokunmi O. Solesi, in his comments, outlined QNET’s three guiding pillars: empowerment, community, and innovation. He described the convention as “a celebration of entrepreneurship, innovation, and purpose,” adding that QNET’s mission goes beyond selling products.

“QNET isn’t just about selling products; it’s about building responsibly, sharing success stories selflessly, and ensuring we lift others as we grow,” Solesi said. “That’s what true entrepreneurship means, creating opportunities, adding value, and helping others rise.”

QNET Wins Gold Stevie Award for Anti-Fraud Campaign Protecting Consumers Across Africa

He also noted that QNET’s Gold Stevie Award for Consumer Protection stands as proof of its commitment to transparency and ethical business practices. Solesi further hinted at new product innovations aimed at enhancing wellness and improving energy and balance without addiction.

Describing the event as “not a make-believe session, but an avenue to relive and recount authentic experiences from Malaysia,” Thelma stressed that QNET’s purpose was to give room for transparency, ethics, and the real essence of direct selling.

Sulaiman Aledeh, sharing his experience, spoke about QNET’s innovation and product quality. “Never in the life of anyone have we seen one company with so much all about elevating,” he said. He commended QNET’s product range, from skincare to air purifiers, and urged Nigerians to embrace the direct selling opportunity.

Journalists’ Firsthand Experiences

Recounting his trip, The Guardian’s Adeyemi Adepetun described VCON 2025 as “a sublime experience.” He further noted: “The hospitality was awesome. From the airport to the hotel, everything was well-coordinated.” 

He commended the sheer scale of the event, attended by over 10,000 people, and expressed admiration for QNET’s efficiency and product innovations in wellness and energy solutions.

“There is an unusual energy around me since returning,” he added, referencing QNET’s pendant and wellness patch products.

Adepetun also acknowledged the company’s collaboration with Nigerian regulators and law enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to tackle misinformation and fraudulent activities in the direct selling space.

For Vanguard’s Juliet Umeh, the experience was equally memorable. She spoke about QNET’s authenticity, saying, “If you were there, you would know that QNET is real,” she stated, stressing that the public must end the act of speaking without facts.

She spotlighted the company’s collaboration with local authorities and regulators to ensure ethical practices. Sharing a lighter moment, she recalled the hospitality and cultural exposure: “The Malaysians made us feel at home. The food, the people, even the driver, everyone made sure we didn’t frown for once.”

Juliet also highlighted how QNET’s philosophy of “Raise Yourself to Help Mankind (RYTHM)” translates into its empowerment and wellness initiatives. She applauded the company’s wellness-focused products, including the Amezcua Chi Pendant 4, Amezcua Bio Disc 3, Q Alive, and E-Guard, which she said help consumers mitigate radiation exposure, restore energy balance, and promote healthy living.

Both journalists described visits to Penang Hill, Quest International University, and QNET’s product exhibition, where they saw firsthand how technology and wellness intersect in the company’s portfolio.

Addressing Industry Misconceptions

During the Q&A session, a participant asked how QNET addresses public scepticism about direct selling. Responding, Solesi explained that the company continues to engage with institutions like the EFCC and the Nigerian Police Force to fight fraud and misinformation.

“We’re not into recruitment; we sell real products that people benefit from,” he said, reaffirming QNET’s stand against Ponzi schemes.

He added that QNET’s growing partnerships with regulators and the media are part of its mission to promote ethical entrepreneurship and restore public trust in the direct selling industry.

In her closing statements, Thelma commended QNET and Newmark for sustaining open dialogue with the Nigerian media. “This webinar reinforces what we already know, transparency and storytelling go hand in hand,” she said. “It’s not just about selling; it’s about empowering.”

“It gets better each time. We should do a revisit; I think we all deserve another round of VCON,” Sulaiman Aledeh stated.

Since beginning operations in Nigeria in 2022, QNET has continued to drive empowerment through initiatives such as FinGreen, which promotes financial literacy, and partnerships with orphanages including Little Saints Orphanage and Babe Salaam.

Participants agreed that engagements like the Beyond VCON webinar are essential for strengthening transparency, building public trust, and promoting responsible entrepreneurship across Africa’s growing direct selling ecosystem.

The campaign, launched in Ghana in 2024 and later expanded to Senegal and Sierra Leone, was designed to tackle the misuse of QNET’s name by fraudsters posing as company agents. 

It has now earned QNET three honours at the 2025 IBAs — a Gold Stevie Award for “Rebuilding Trust Through Crisis Communication and Public Education in Ghana” under the Brand/Reputation Management category, a Silver Stevie Award in the Public Service category, and a Bronze Stevie Award for its flagship event, V-Africa 2025, recognised under Corporate & Community – Community Engagement Event.

Through the QNET Against Scams campaign, the company sought to restore public trust by clarifying its direct selling business model and educating the public on how to spot fraud. 

The initiative combined radio and television messaging, social media engagement, billboard placements, and even creative street activations such as roller-skating teams that captured attention in major cities.

The campaign’s success was also rooted in its partnerships with key law enforcement and regulatory agencies, including Ghana’s Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), the Ghana Police Service, the Ghana Immigration Service, and Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Together, these institutions worked to curb fraudulent activities and promote financial awareness.

Beyond public education, QNET introduced a Scam Alert portal, designed to help consumers verify company information, identify fraudulent claims, and report suspicious activity. The initiative was amplified through extensive media coverage, compliance programmes, and grassroots events that connected with tens of thousands of people across communities.

The company’s drive for transparency comes as global figures have become more alarming. According to the 2024 Global State of Scams report by the Global Anti-Scam Alliance (GASA) and Feedzai, global financial losses linked to scams reached an estimated $1.03 trillion within 12 months, a statistic that stressed the urgency of corporate-led consumer protection initiatives.

“These awards are a validation of our efforts to fight back against those who misuse our brand name to defraud others,” said Trevor Kuna, chief marketing officer of QNET. “We are determined to protect the communities in which we operate and rebuild trust with our customers and stakeholders. Together, they affirm our commitment to responsible entrepreneurship and the values that drive us forward.”

QNET’s recognition at the IBAs places it among leading global brands celebrated for their commitment to integrity, communication excellence, and social responsibility.

Since its establishment in 1998, QNET has leveraged direct selling and e-commerce to distribute wellness and lifestyle products globally, building a vast network of entrepreneurs and customers. 

The company is a member of several direct selling associations and maintains partnerships with major sports organisations, including Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), reflecting its growing international footprint.

One company that has often found itself unfairly entangled in public confusion is QNET, a global direct-selling company providing lifestyle and wellness products.

Despite QNET’s clearly defined product-based business model and regulatory presence in many countries, it continues to be misrepresented, particularly in parts of Africa and Asia, as a scam.

This mislabeling is not only unjust but dangerous. It undermines the credibility of genuine businesses and hinders opportunities for thousands who earn a livelihood through legal, structured network marketing.

Across Nigeria, scam syndicates continue to exploit the dreams of countless job seekers, tarnishing the reputation of QNET in the process.

Now, the company is fighting back with unrelenting determination to protect its name, its legitimate entrepreneurs, and vulnerable Nigerians from the clutches of fraudsters.

A National Crisis that requires a multi-pronged approach

The scale of the problem is staggering. According to the Nigeria Inter-Bank Settlement System (NIBSS) landscape report, in Nigeria, the annual fraud count increased by 112% from 44,947 in 2019 to 95,620 in 2023, while the amount lost to fraud grew by 496% from N2.9 Billion to N17 billion. 

Furthermore, the CBN Financial Stability Report 2024 highlights a 45% increase in financial fraud cases, with 70% of losses attributed to digital channels, including unregulated virtual asset platforms.

Additionally, the SEC and other agencies have flagged over 30 Ponzi-style investment schemes exploiting digital currency narratives. These numbers paint a grim picture: scam syndicates are not just a nuisance; they’re a national crisis preying on economic desperation.

In a recent interview, Mr. Biram Fall, Regional General Manager for QNET for Sub-Saharan Africa, indicated that the company is ramping up its national crackdown on impersonation scams, fake job offers, and fraudulent investment schemes that exploit its brand name and target vulnerable Nigerians.

Working closely with the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC), and various police commands, the company continues to demonstrate a zero-tolerance policy towards misinformation, exploitation, and criminal deception.

In March 2023, QNET  launched a nationwide Social Awareness campaign that reached over 50 million Nigerians, reinforcing the message that QNET does not offer jobs or investment opportunities, only legitimate, ethical business built on the sale of real products.

As part of its grassroots efforts, QNET launched billboard and radio campaigns across Lagos, Ogun, and Rivers States, distributing over 3,000 public awareness pamphlets on fraud sensitization.

“We won’t stand by while fraudsters exploit trust and economic hardship,” said Biram Fall, QNET’s Regional General Manager for Sub-Saharan Africa. “Our business is built on transparency and real product value, not recruitment or investment promises. That’s why we work with regulators to expose bad actors and ensure Nigerians know the truth about who we are.”

QNET operates on a product-based direct selling model, where Independent Distributors earn commissions from product sales—not from recruitment or investments.

Despite QNET’s proven product-based business model, confusion persists in regions affected by Ponzi schemes and financial scams. Mr. Fall addressed this concern by citing the March 2025 EFCC report, which listed 58 Ponzi-related companies; QNET was not among them.

Between 2022 and 2023, QNET investigated and terminated 81 Independent Distributor accounts in Sub-Saharan Africa that had breached its Code of Ethics. 

In November 2023, the company also launched its flagship Say NO! campaign in Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Senegal to raise awareness and dismantle fraud networks posing as legitimate businesses.

Reaching millions through grassroots activities—local-language radio jingles, comic-style pamphlets, billboards, WhatsApp hotlines, and public-sector partnerships—the campaign empowers at-risk communities to spot red flags such as unsolicited job offers or demands for upfront payments, protecting countless individuals from scams.

Beyond awareness, QNET’s alliances with Nigeria’s top regulatory bodies have fueled joint investigations, leading to the shutdown of over 50 fake recruitment websites and the arrest of 30 impostors in 2024 alone. 

In March 2024, QNET partnered with the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) to mark World Consumer Rights Day under the theme “Fair and Responsible AI for Consumers.”

LASCOPA’s General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, praised the collaboration, saying: “Our partnership with QNET strengthens our resolve to combat unfair practices and uphold transparency and justice in the marketplace. Together, we are setting a new standard for consumer protection, ensuring the rights of Lagosians are safeguarded in this digital age.”

Building on this success, QNET and LASCOPA reunited for World Consumer Rights Day 2025, reinforcing QNET’s long-term commitment to protecting consumers, promoting ethical business practices, and fostering trust in Nigeria’s marketplace.

QNET also collaborated with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE) in July 2024 to train 50 unemployed youths in identifying fraudulent job schemes. As part of its proactive strategies, the company is also tackling financial vulnerability through education.

Its signature financial literacy programme, FinGreen, launched in 2022 in partnership with Transblue Limited, has trained over 1,500 young people and women across Nigeria in budgeting, saving, responsible spending, and digital financial literacy. 

Rebuilding Trust, Restoring Dreams

For QNET, this fight transcends corporate reputation. It’s about safeguarding the aspirations of honest entrepreneurs and consumers who believe in ethical direct selling.

The company has overhauled its internal compliance systems, introduced rigorous agent training, and launched clearer brand messaging to separate fact from fiction. 

These coordinated efforts across consumer protection, policy engagement, internal enforcement, and public education reaffirm QNET’s long-term commitment to ethical entrepreneurship and community safety. 

The company remains steadfast in its mission to empower individuals, combat misinformation, and build a more transparent, opportunity-driven Africa.

The online session featured Nigerian journalists who travelled to Malaysia for QNET’s flagship V-Convention (VCON) and returned with firsthand perspectives on the company’s operations.

Ayokunmi Solesi, QNET Nigeria’s general manager, opened the conversation by addressing the core reason behind the webinar: public scepticism. He stressed that misinformation is rampant, and it’s damaging. 

“QNET invited journalists who had personally attended VCON to share their unfiltered accounts. These journalists saw things for themselves, asked questions, had honest conversations and experienced the events firsthand,” he said.

Solesi reiterated QNET’s guiding principle: Raise Yourself To Help Mankind (RYTHM). He explained that this philosophy is more than a slogan,  it’s a call to personal growth that, in turn, uplifts others.

”When we rise and grow individually, we should also create room for others to rise with us, not only in business, but in impact and also in purpose,” he said.

Solesi made it known that personal growth means little if it does not empower others. He described QNET as a platform designed to enable entrepreneurship, promote sustainability, and deliver long-term impact. 

He didn’t shy away from the controversies surrounding the brand, acknowledging the flood of misinformation online. His message encompassed the fact that truth cannot come from speculation, it must be seen, experienced, and told without filters.

At the heart of the webinar was something companies rarely rely on; raw, personal narratives from independent observers. Rather than polished press statements, QNET leaned on those who had walked the grounds of the Spice Arena in Penang, Malaysia, and interacted with the company at its core.

One of the journalists, Precious Igbonwelundu, head of City Crime Defence and assistant head of Investigation at The Nation newspaper, recounted her experience:

“My experience at VCON exceeded all my expectations. I have covered QNET in Nigeria before, but I never realised the scale of the company. The crowd I saw at the Spice Arena in Penang was incredible. I saw thousands of people from India, the Philippines, Africa, and the Middle East, all working toward a common goal. They all understood they were not employees; they were individual business owners, focused on rising and helping their downliners rise with them.”

She didn’t stop at numbers and stage presentations. What shifted her perception, she said, were the open doors QNET offered — including access to Quest International University (QI University), where access was unrestricted and eye-opening. She witnessed medical training facilities, including cadavers used for experiments.

“A lot stood out for me, especially the level of transparency. We have heard many negative things about QNET in Nigeria, but when they took us to places like the Quest University, we were given unprecedented access. We even saw the cadavers used for medical experiments. I don’t believe a fraudulent or faceless business would grant that kind of access. This gave us a firsthand view of how real the company and its sister businesses are, and the impact they are making on society.”

She also commented on QNET’s corporate structure and ethical expectations. According to her, there’s more to the company than products and marketing. There are systems in place to guide representatives, including ongoing training and mandatory assessments.

“I was also motivated by their ethical approach and strong corporate governance. I saw that they are a company focused on giving value, not just making money. They motivate people and ensure that their representatives follow laid-out procedures, even requiring them to take examinations from time to time to stay in the system.”

Kayode Bakare, group head of Programmes at RHYTHM FM Nigeria, also spoke during the session. He reiterated the transformational nature of the trip, highlighting both logistical excellence and transparency.

“The sheer magnitude of VCON, with its thousands of attendees, left a profound impression on me. We were also taken to the QI University, where we met the vice-chancellor and toured the entire campus, including the medical and radio facilities. This helped us understand that some people in Nigeria had created a fake campus to scam others.”

Bakare directly addressed the long-standing doubts about QNET’s authenticity.

“In one word, it was an amazing and delightful experience. We now know for sure that QNET is a legitimate company, and they are actively working to address the actions of dishonest individuals who use their name.”

The moderator, Veronica Dan-Ikpoyi, ensured the discussion stayed focused on the journalists’ testimonies rather than corporate talking points. Her role helped amplify the message that perception must change, and that the truth about QNET is best understood by those who’ve seen it up close.

In an economy like Nigeria’s, where entrepreneurship is usually the only escape route from unemployment, platforms like QNET are bound to attract both fair and unfair reviews.

The company knows this, but rather than retreat behind generic PR, it has chosen to show its hand and invite the world to see for itself.

For example, you try a new health supplement that helps you sleep better, and you proceed to tell a relative who buys it and loves it too.

They then tell a friend, and suddenly, several people in your network are raving about the same product, all because of your initial recommendation.

Now, what if the company behind that supplement decided to reward you financially for every purchase made through your referrals, beyond a simple “thank you“?

That, in essence, is direct selling

Direct selling involves marketing and retailing goods and services directly to consumers, without permanent retail locations.

This approach is mainly driven by word-of-mouth referrals. Products offered through direct selling companies often have unique features that are exclusive to the company and unavailable in retail stores.

The direct selling industry has flourished through relationship-based marketing for over 150 years.

According to the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA) 2024 Annual Report, approximately 103 million entrepreneurs worldwide earn income through direct selling, either part-time or full-time, generating an estimated USD 168 billion in retail sales globally.

For thousands across Nigeria and Africa, this business model has proven to be more than a side hustle, but a pathway to self-employment, entrepreneurship, and dignity.

Driving Economic Growth in Africa

With millions across the continent seeking sustainable income, direct selling has become a powerful economic engine.

Unlike risky investment schemes or rigid 9–5 jobs, direct selling offers flexible work hours, skill-building, and low start-up costs.

Even amid global economic challenges, the industry is showing resilience. Further reports from WFDSA state that global retail sales in the direct selling industry grew 1% over the past 4 years, a positive result amid political turmoil, economic disruption, and recent recovery from a pandemic, showing that direct selling continues to stand strong.

The QNET Model: Entrepreneurship with Integrity

QNET is a global lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to promote unique products that enable people to take charge of their health, well-being, and lifestyle.

These offerings are crafted to enhance personal health and elevate lifestyle quality.

Headquartered in Hong Kong, QNET maintains a presence in over 25 countries worldwide. Beyond delivering quality products, QNET extends a business opportunity to its customers, enabling them to promote its products and services to others.

This model has empowered millions of satisfied customers and Independent Distributors (IDs) globally.

Here’s how it works:

• Join as an Independent Distributor (ID). Anyone over 18 can register and gain access to QNET’s exclusive products.
• Earn from Sales, Not Recruitment. As an ID, you can refer QNET’s products to others and earn commissions on completed sales through a compensation plan that calculates commissions based on the sales volume generated through your referrals on its e-commerce platform.
• Training, Support & Empowerment QNET invests in its IDs through training, digital tools, and mentoring to help them succeed ethically and confidently.

Busting the Myths: QNET is Not a Ponzi Scheme

Despite its positive impact, QNET has sometimes been misunderstood, with critics mistakenly likening it to fraudulent schemes.

These misconceptions often stem from misinformation or bad actors who misuse the company’s name.

QNET is not an investment or a Ponzi scheme and does not endorse any get-rich-quick ideology. It operates using its direct selling model.

QNET strongly opposes unethical practices and works closely with law enforcement, consumer protection agencies, and community leaders to ensure transparency.

Through its “Say NO! Awareness Campaign”, launched in November 2023, QNET educates the public about scams and promotes responsible entrepreneurship.

The campaign has reached thousands through multilingual billboards, radio messages, educational pamphlets, and online platforms.

As part of this campaign, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE) and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) collaborated with QNET.

Additionally, QNET runs a WhatsApp hotline (+233256630005) for inquiries related to the company’s Policies and Procedures, Code of Ethics, complaints, or to report misconduct.

A Business Model Rooted in Financial Literacy and Empowerment

QNET’s direct-selling model is more than a pathway to income – it’s a platform for entrepreneurship grounded in education and ethical empowerment.

Individuals can build a business on their terms, leveraging their networks and promoting products they believe in, without the burden of high start-up costs.

Success requires commitment, strategic thinking, and continuous learning. That’s why QNET complements its business model with its signature financial literacy program, FinGreen, launched in Nigeria in 2022.

The program aims to develop healthy financial habits through education and training in the most vulnerable communities, particularly for youths stepping into entrepreneurship in emerging economies.

QNET’s direct-selling business offers the opportunity to become an entrepreneur, with the primary difference being that there is no concern about large-scale start-up costs and operational overheads, as in a traditional business.

Success is entirely dependent on the work put in.

As the global workforce evolves and more people seek flexible, tech-enabled careers, QNET stands at the forefront, offering income, purpose, dignity, and impact. In a world full of quick fixes and questionable investment schemes, QNET is championing a tried, tested, and people-focused model.

For anyone looking to embrace a healthier lifestyle, build a career on their terms, or make an ethical income, QNET’s direct selling opportunity is simply the way to go.

More about QNET

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct-selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced lifestyle.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind.

Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewelry, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more.

QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships, including its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.

These concerns have resurfaced following the arrests of several suspects in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. 

QNET commends the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) for its actions in apprehending those responsible and is actively supporting the authorities to prevent further misuse of its brand.

QNET Says NO to Brand Misuse and Criminal Misrepresentation

QNET is a 27-year-old international direct selling company offering wellness and lifestyle products through a network of independent distributors.

These individuals are customers who have purchased QNET products and have chosen to build their own direct selling business using the company’s platform. They operate independently and are not employees of QNET.

Unfortunately, certain third-party entities such as Mighty Infinity Millionaire Ltd, that have no affiliation to QNET, “and operate without our oversight or recognition,” have grossly misrepresented the QNET business model and acted in a manner that is in no way a representation of QNET business ethics or values.

“We unequivocally state that such entities and individuals are not affiliated with or endorsed by QNET. QNET reiterates that Transblue Nigeria Limited remains our sole partner in Nigeria.”

Operating Within Legal and Ethical Boundaries

In Nigeria, QNET operates strictly within the legal and regulatory frameworks through its official local partner, Transblue Nigeria Limited.

“We remain committed to ethical business practices and protecting both our brand and the public from exploitation. We urge members of the public to remain vigilant, verify the authenticity of individuals or entities claiming affiliation with QNET, and report any suspicious activity to the appropriate authorities.”

Statement from QNET’s Regional Leadership & Legal Nigerian Partner

Responding to the fraudulent activities being perpetrated in QNET’s name, Biram Fall, regional general manager of QNET for sub-Saharan Africa, states,

“We are extremely disturbed by the way unscrupulous individuals have misused the QNET brand to deceive innocent Nigerians with false promises. At QNET, our values are rooted in honesty and empowering people to build better lives through genuine means. We remain committed to supporting law enforcement agencies in their efforts to bring these fraudsters to justice and encourage the public to verify any claims of affiliation with QNET before getting involved.”

To avoid further confusion, QNET wishes to emphasize the following:

• QNET does not operate or endorse any physical or online university under the name “Q-University” in Nigeria. QNET is part of a larger business conglomerate that operates the Quest International University in Malaysia, which does not have any overseas campus. 
• QNET is not involved with online medical courses or academic institutions in Nigeria.
• QNET does not support or condone recruitment-driven models that promise employment, scholarships, or guaranteed returns unrelated to the legitimate sale or purchase of QNET products.
• QNET strongly condemns the unauthorized use of our intellectual property – including company logos, founder portraits, and promotional materials – by fraudulent actors aiming to mislead the public.
  

QNET’s Awareness Creation and Consumer Protection Efforts

Since entering the Nigerian market in 2022, QNET with the support of its local partner, Transblue Nigeria Limited, have prioritized financial literacy and consumer protection.

In November 2023, the direct selling company launched the Say NO! Awareness Campaign to educate the public about scams and promote responsible entrepreneurship. The campaign has reached thousands through multilingual billboards, radio messages, educational pamphlets, and online platforms.

As part of this campaign, the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment (FMLE) and the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA) were also engaged.

Cooperation with Law Enforcement

QNET expresses its full support and appreciation for the EFCC’s efforts to protect citizens and crack down on cyber and financial crimes. We are actively cooperating with the Commission in its investigations and are committed to further educating the public on the nature and values of QNET’s legitimate operations.

Public Advisory: How to Stay Safe

To protect yourself from scams falsely linked to QNET:

• Verify all QNET-related information here
• Report suspicious activity via email: network.integrity@qnet.net or WhatsApp: +233 256 630 005
• Learn how to identify scams here

QNET remains fully committed to ethical business practices and transparency. We stand with Nigerian authorities in protecting citizens from fraud and will continue to cooperate fully to bring those misusing our brand to justice.

Techeconomy gathered that an Independent Representative (IR) identified as Okperegede Sunday defrauded about 50 of his “downlines”, to a tune of ₦50 million intended for product purchases and absconded with the money received from these “downlines”.

QNET through its lawyers, collaborated with the authorities to facilitate his arrest from his hide-out and immediately suspended his account, which will be terminated after investigations are concluded.

QNET: A Genuine Direct Selling Company

In a statement on Sunday, QNET emphasized a growing concern over the increasing number of incidents where its brand name is being misused by individuals and groups to engage in illegal or criminal activities.

“The Company is taking this opportunity to warn individuals using its name to perpetuate these acts to be cautious of the consequences that awaits them.

“QNET firmly opposes any fraudulent activities conducted in its name and remains committed to working with authorities to ensure justice is served. QNET hereby advises the public to stay vigilant and avoid falling victim to such deceptive practices.

“Earlier this year, we took proactive measures to raise public awareness, educate and inform individuals against fake job offers, scams, and illegal migration here in Ogun state through our Say No! Awareness campaign. These fraudulent activities, carried out in QNET’s name, are a serious concern for us because they impact people’s lives,” says Biram Fall, the regional general manager for QNET, Sub-Sahara Africa.

QNET is a lifestyle and wellness company that offers exclusive products designed to help people live healthier and more fulfilling lives.

The company operates using a direct-selling business model, allowing individuals to become promotors of the products.

These promotors, also known as Independent Representatives (IRs), build their own sales businesses by promoting the products and earning sales commissions.

They are required to conduct themselves professionally according to the company’s code of conduct and ethics. QNET has a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of illegal or fraudulent activity and will take strong action against anyone misrepresenting QNET.

The company also swiftly and decisively takes disciplinary action against the Independent Representative (IR) who conduct the business contrary to its policies and procedures and will continue to work closely with the police to ensure the perpetrators face justice.

Between 2022 and 2023, QNET conducted investigations and terminated 81 IRs in Sub-Saharan Africa, including in Burkina Faso, Nigeria, and Senegal, for violating company policies and procedures.

QNET has established a Say NO! Campaign website to raise awareness of job scams and human trafficking.

The company also has a compliance hotline on WhatsApp to receive reports of fraudulent activities in its name.

The public is encouraged to report any suspected fraudulent activities falsely representing QNET to WhatsApp number +233256630005 or via email at network.integrity@qnet.net for prompt action.

In the traditional retail model, shop owners buy goods from manufacturers and mark them up to pay for their business costs such as rent, before selling them on to the end consumer.

In the direct selling model, distributors sell high-quality goods directly to the customers outside of the store environment, reducing business costs and eliminating the need to raise prices on their goods.

In addition to providing unique, life-enhancing products to consumers, the direct selling industry has had a significant impact on Sub-Saharan economies.

According to the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations annual report, the region’s direct selling market was valued at USD627 million in 2021, with over 5.4 million distributors actively participating in entrepreneurial activities that generate household income and contribute to the broader economy.

The Good, The Bad, and Truth on Direct Selling

One of the primary reasons individuals are joining direct selling is because it allows them to start businesses with minimal upfront investment and no formal education requirements.

Not only are new distributors able to start their business efficiently, but they also have the opportunity to gain valuable skills through free training sessions, workshops, and conferences where they can improve their sales techniques, soft skills, and leadership abilities.

This opens doors for those with limited resources or who face barriers to traditional employment, such as stay-at-home parents or individuals in underserved communities.

Because of the low barrier to entry and support resources many direct selling companies offer, many people can generate additional income, build social networks, and develop essential business and life skills by becoming distributors.

For instance, the flexible earning opportunities benefit the stay-at-home spouse through joining a direct selling company, choosing products to sell, and earning commissions or profits based on their sales volume.

With the flexibility to manage their own schedule, they can balance household responsibilities while actively promoting and selling products. The income generated supplements household finances, helping to meet expenses, save, and achieve personal goals.

Additionally, direct selling offers training and support, enabling individuals to develop valuable sales and entrepreneurial skills.

In addition to benefiting local entrepreneurs, direct selling companies offer an extensive portfolio of goods, including innovative beauty and wellness products, eco-friendly household items, exclusive lifestyle items and accessories, nutritional supplements, and much more to customers.

These products are frequently developed in-house or incorporate proprietary ingredients and formulas that are unique in the market.

While the industry has improved the lives of many, it also faces legitimate criticisms – especially in emerging markets that have little or no exposure to this type of sales model.

Africa has often been called the new frontier of growth for the direct selling industry with the region experiencing one of the highest three-year CAGR at 6%.

Yet, in many African nations, legitimate direct selling businesses are often misunderstood as illegitimate schemes due to lack of awareness and relevant legislation.

The lack of industry regulatory bodies, such as a direct selling association whose mission is to provide education about the business model, has resulted in an insufficient legal definition of the industry and serious misunderstandings among authorities and the public. One common misconception is that it is a pyramid scheme or get-rich-quick fraud.

Some critics point out that certain dishonest entities, many of whom masquerade as direct selling companies, have violated the laws by making exaggerated revenue promises, pressuring sales representatives to purchase products, and using unethical marketing strategies.

These issues affect the direct selling industry worldwide, and Sub-Saharan Africa is no exception, making it harder for legitimate organisations to attract and retain distributors and customers.

Despite the challenges, many direct selling companies are determined to change the industry’s image in Sub-Saharan Africa.

The largest organisation representing the global direct selling industry, the World Federation of Direct Selling Associations (WFDSA), published an official Code of Ethics governing the actions of direct selling companies and their responsibilities towards ensuring fair competition and operating according to local customer protection laws – a toolkit that direct selling companies adhere to worldwide.

For businesses such as QNET, a lifestyle and wellness-focused direct selling company, implementing more robust procedures, such as regular training and monitoring of distributors’ activities to ensure adherence to sales practices, product sales and compensation claims, and product safety regulations, is a crucial component to addressing the misconceptions about direct selling.

For example, training programmes, such as QNETPro, help educate, inform, and train distributors on how direct selling works, QNET’s product portfolio, and compensation plans. 

Direct selling companies can improve transparency by providing clear and accurate compensation plans and product pricing information to governments, legislative bodies, distributors, and customers to combat misinformation regarding the industry.

Creating and maintaining freely accessible resources, such as the WFDSA website and the Direct Selling Disinformation Centre, are positive steps towards shifting the public’s perspective on direct selling, and help local communities benefit from this industry.

The Way Forward

Direct selling in Sub-Saharan Africa has emerged as a significant driver of alternative employment opportunities and economic empowerment, while also providing customers with unique and diverse products.

The industry has successfully enabled individuals, including those with limited resources, to start their own businesses and generate income, fostering entrepreneurship and skill development.

However, direct selling faces challenges in the region, including misconceptions, regulatory gaps, and fraudulent entities.

To overcome these obstacles, direct selling companies are taking proactive measures, such as adhering to codes of ethics, implementing training programs, and enhancing transparency. By educating the public, engaging with regulatory bodies, and providing accessible resources, the industry aims to transform the narrative and highlight the positive impact of direct selling in Sub-Saharan Africa, empowering individuals and contributing to local economies.

About the Writer:

Biram Fall is a well-rounded business leader with about 30 years work experience spanning critical spheres of business development and management.

Mr. Fall started his career at Citibank in New York City in the United States as an Economist and Financial Analyst. As a resilient and result-oriented professional, he worked at Citibank and other leading organisations, helping deliver value, meeting and exceeding set-targets. His professional journey is always on the upward trajectory, rising through the ranks into senior management and other strategic positions.

Currently, Mr. Fall is QNET’s Regional General Manager (RGM) for sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) managing a challenging, diverse but highly promising African business turf for the global wellness and lifestyle Company. He has vast experience in stakeholder management and government relations. He believes and ensures that every stakeholder in a business’ spectrum is well mapped and adequately engaged.

He is passionate about the development of young Africans and their ability in ushering Africa into the much-anticipated dispensation of prosperity and effective leadership.

Biram is an avid lover of visual arts and his gaze glimmers in geopolitics.