The Nation Newspaper

Author: The Nation

  • From Digital Marketing to Business Analysis: Olayemi Awoeyo on Career Growth and Africa’s Tech Future

    From Digital Marketing to Business Analysis: Olayemi Awoeyo on Career Growth and Africa’s Tech Future

    In the world of digital technology, career paths are rarely linear. For Olayemi Awoeyo, a Lagos-based Business Analyst with a background in digital marketing, navigating this complexity has been both a challenge and an opportunity. With several years of experience helping brands grow through digital channels, Awoeyo made a career pivot into business analysis, a decision that reflects not only personal ambition but also the evolving needs of Africa’s tech ecosystem. In an exclusive interview with The Nation, he shares his journey as an emerging voice in African digital

    transformation, insights into building a career in product strategy and digital analysis, and offers advice for professionals looking to evolve in a competitive tech landscape.

    Can you take us through your professional journey — from working in digital marketing to becoming a business analyst? What influenced that transition?

    My journey started in digital marketing, helping businesses connect with customers and grow their online presence.

    Over time, I became curious about the reasons behind business decisions, not just promoting value, but understanding how businesses create it.

    This curiosity led me into business analysis. I wanted a role that allowed me to align business goals with technology solutions. The transition wasn’t instant, but it was deliberate.

    I built new skills, took on projects that involved working with different teams, and gradually moved into the analyst role I hold today.

    Many people struggle with switching careers, especially across disciplines. What gave you the confidence to make such a bold move?

    Confidence came from clarity. I took time to understand the core of what I enjoyed doing and the kind of impact I wanted to have. I also paid attention to the direction the industry was heading. Business analysts are playing an increasingly important role in tech-led growth, especially in markets like Nigeria where organizations are still learning how to use data and technology effectively. Once I saw the opportunity, I focused on building the right skills and aligning with mentors who had made similar transitions. It wasn’t without doubt, but I had enough conviction to stay the course.

    What does a Business Analyst really do, particularly within the context of tech-driven organizations in Africa?

    A Business Analyst acts as a bridge between business needs and tech solutions.

    In African tech-driven companies, this means I work closely with teams to clearly define problems and find opportunities for growth.

    My role includes gathering and analyzing data to understand business challenges, defining clear requirements for tech teams to build effective solutions, ensuring projects align with strategic business goals and testing and validating solutions before they reach users

    Ultimately, my job helps businesses make smarter, data-driven decisions that boost efficiency, customer satisfaction, and growth in Africa’s fast-evolving tech landscape.

    Looking back, how has your background in digital marketing shaped your perspective as a business analyst?

    It’s been incredibly useful. Marketing taught me to think from the customer’s perspective,  to always ask, “Who is this for, and why should they care?” That lens has helped me approach business analysis with empathy and user-centricity. It also gave me strong communication skills, which are critical when you’re trying to align business stakeholders with development teams. Being able to translate between business and tech is something I credit to my marketing experience.

    What key experiences have influenced your decision to deepen your work in digital marketing and business analysis?

    My journey in digital marketing and business analysis has been shaped by hands-on experiences that have never felt like work, but as part of my everyday life. I have supported over 200 SMEs in adopting digital tools to scale their operations, mentored and trained more than 120 junior professionals in product strategy and digital analysis, many of whom are now thriving in tech roles around the world, and volunteered with the NYSC to train over 5,000 students in digital literacy and technology fundamentals. These opportunities strengthened my passion for the field, expanded my technical knowledge, and reinforced my belief in the transformative power of technology when knowledge is shared and applied with purpose.

    In your experience, what are the essential skills required to thrive as a business analyst today?

    Critical thinking is non-negotiable. You need to be able to break down complex problems and ask the right questions. Communication is another key skill,  both written and verbal. You’re often in the middle of conversations between developers, product managers, and executives, and you need to ensure everyone is on the same page. Technical literacy is important, even if you’re not writing code. Understanding systems, data flows, and APIs can make you a better bridge. Lastly, adaptability  because things move fast in tech.

    What are some of the biggest misconceptions people have about the business analyst role?

    A common one is that business analysts just document things, that we sit around writing reports or creating flowcharts. In reality, the role is far more dynamic. You’re actively involved in shaping product direction, identifying opportunities, and sometimes even influencing business models. Another misconception is that you need to have a strictly technical background. While that helps, a good analyst is someone who can think strategically and work collaboratively,  the technical part can be learned.

    The tech industry is evolving fast. What role do you think business analysts play in driving innovation and digital transformation, particularly in Nigeria and across Africa?

    Business Analysts are critical in driving innovation and digital transformation, especially in Nigeria and across Africa.

    We do this by identifying growth opportunities through data-driven insights, understanding market trends and customer behaviors to guide strategy, aligning technology solutions with clear business goals to ensure meaningful impact, and facilitating collaboration between technical teams and business leaders to speed up innovation.

    In Nigeria and Africa’s rapidly evolving tech space, Business Analysts like me help organizations adapt quickly, stay competitive, and deliver real value through digital solutions.

    For professionals looking to transition into tech or grow within it, what advice would you give, especially in terms of continuous learning and positioning?

    Don’t wait for permission to learn. There are so many resources available now,  courses, communities, mentors. If you’re curious, start exploring. Volunteer for cross-functional projects, document your learnings, and don’t be afraid to start small. Also, understand that positioning isn’t about self-promotion, it’s about clarity. Know what you want to be known for, and be consistent in showing that value to the market.

    Beyond your current role, do you see yourself building a company or launching a tech solution of your own anytime soon?

    It’s something I think about. I believe that many of the challenges we face in Nigeria and across Africa require local solutions. I’d like to contribute to that,  whether through entrepreneurship or by supporting ventures that align with my values. For now, I’m focused on sharpening my craft and contributing meaningfully to the teams and products I’m part of.

    Finally, what excites you most about the future of technology in Africa, and how do you hope to contribute to it?

    What excites me is the potential. We have a young population, a growing digital infrastructure, and an appetite for innovation. I see technology not just as an industry, but as a tool for transformation,  from education and health to finance and governance. My hope is to keep playing a role in making that transformation thoughtful and inclusive. Whether as an analyst, mentor, or future founder, I want my work to contribute to a more empowered and connected Africa.

  • Renowned Nigerian HSE Professional Unveils Innovative Approach to Bolster Health and Safety Compliance

    Renowned Nigerian HSE Professional Unveils Innovative Approach to Bolster Health and Safety Compliance

    In a transformative move for health and safety standards in Nigeria, Chika Samuels, a prominent Occupational Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) expert, has introduced cutting-edge digital innovations designed to streamline and enhance compliance efforts.

    Occupational HSE managers, especially those in critical industries like food, shoulder the responsibility of ensuring their organizations adhere to a spectrum of regulations and standards aimed at safeguarding the health and safety of employees, the environment, and the quality of finished products.

    Traditionally, safety compliance plans have been static documents collecting dust on shelves. In today’s dynamic environment, marked by the challenges of workforce attrition and the “Great Resignation,” it’s evident that the conventional approach to safety compliance is obsolete, with limited transferability and effectiveness.

    To tackle this issue, Chika Samuels Consulting Services now offers innovative compliance tools that empower food handlers and HSE managers to keep abreast of evolving regulations and maintain effective communication within their teams, regardless of staff turnover. These tools grant HSE managers access to potent resources, enabling them to address HSE compliance issues in real time, fostering greater efficiency and transferability of compliance actions and documents..

    In a recent press briefing at the Virtual HSE Community Anniversary, Chika Samuels shared remarkable testimonials from her HSE community, highlighting how her tailored digital tools and templates are simplifying the lives of today’s overwhelmed HSE professionals, who must juggle on-site responsibilities with maintaining efficient and auditable safety management records.

    With over a decade of HSE experience, Chika Samuels provides innovative consultancy services and educational programs, catering to HSE professionals and food handlers, including chefs, restaurant owners, and food manufacturers. Her primary focus centers on advocating safe work practices and creating user-friendly health and safety protocols for the handling, preparation, and delivery of safe food, including allergen-free options for individuals with food allergies.

    Chika emphasizes, “The solution offered by these virtual/tele-educational programs bridges the gap created by traditional practices involving extensive paperwork and spreadsheets, leading to repetitive and mundane tasks, even for reporting minor safety incidents. The virtual group training sessions provide a safe space for HSE professionals to seek tried-and-true solutions to overcome the challenges of working in the food industry.”

    The role of a safety manager involves analyzing workplace procedures, materials, machinery, and environmental conditions to assess the risk of injury, occupational illnesses, environmental damage, and property and equipment damage. They are instrumental in developing measures to control workplace hazards and mitigate financial loss to their clients and organizations. Additionally, they play a pivotal role in assessing safety and health plans for new structures and equipment, generating reports, and evaluating workplace health risks, such as air quality, noise, heat, and ergonomics, while devising effective controls.

    “The worsening impact of incidents-related stigma, combined with the industry’s tendency to label HSE professionals as incompetent, perpetuates negative stereotypes that hinder progress. It allows myths, flawed safety protocols, and ignorance to persist, leaving those in need of genuine solutions wary, disappointed, and prone to giving up on their professional aspirations too soon.” Chika explained

    Read Also: Reps want FG to channel fuel subsidy savings to healthcare

    “Effective communication is paramount for the efficient operation of a safety management system. The absence of a live, self-updating dashboard can result in the oversight of critical data that cannot be retrieved from manually entered documents. Our training equips professionals and regulatory agencies to customize digital tools using the latest cloud computing and API development techniques, transforming them into user-friendly safety reporting software that automates daily safety management tasks. To date, we’ve completed over 15,000 HSE training sessions and consultations with a variety of safety specialists.” She further shared.

    Chika’s web-based software and mobile applications, endorsed by EPA/OSHA standards, have demonstrated their value in managing work permits, handling incidents, ensuring safety compliance, managing employee risks, and overseeing audits. She emphasizes the critical role of knowledge sharing, stating, “Ignorance thrives where information isn’t readily available. That’s the primary goal of our community group training sessions, where safety professionals can freely seek answers and receive real-time, user-friendly technological solutions for on-site challenges.” Efficiently executing these activities enhances transparency regarding safety concerns in the workplace and aids in generating actionable insights on safety processes.

    Oluwasegun Onakan, the Community Digital Training Administrator, offered insights into the importance of choosing the right educational community for HSE specialists in the food industry. He stated, “The path of an up-and-coming HSE professional can be lonely and overwhelming, with challenges such as stress, time management, certification costs, and endless questions about maintaining order on-site. It’s crucial to have an impartial educational support community that comprehensively addresses HSE concerns. The devil lies in the details—the minute HSE details we tend to overlook in manual HSE metric compilation can be the difference between a highly sought-after HSE manager and one barely tolerated at work. You need someone who understands and simplifies training, someone who speaks the language of the shop floor and offers constructive feedback on your site’s HSE metrics.”

    Chika Samuels Consulting Training Services is a fervent advocate for sustainable HSE management systems. A bestselling author and host of multiple health-related programs, including the SoPrecious Health Kitchen show, SoPrecious Baby Dust show, and various food safety and public health programs, Chika Samuels Consulting Training Services has published influential articles on the WHO Food Safety Community of Practice and has conducted over 15,000 consultations and appointments to address various HSE and food safety needs.

  • Osun 2022: Returning officer, two others escape death as thugs invade Ward in Ikire

    Osun 2022: Returning officer, two others escape death as thugs invade Ward in Ikire

    Suspected political thugs invaded Ward 6 in Irewole local government during the Osun State governorship election on Saturday, resulting in a near-death experience for the Returning Officer of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Hon. Jide Jooda, and other prominent party members.

    It was gathered that the violence erupted when the thugs suspected that the PDP candidate, Ademola Adeleke, was leading against the incumbent governor, Adegboyega Oyetola.

    The incident occurred in Ikire, Ward 6, which is also the hometown of the incumbent deputy governor, Benedict Alabi.

    One of the voters who witnessed the incident, Mr. Adedire Habeeb, told The Nation that one Odeyemi Kazeem Shina, a staunch member of the PDP, almost lost his life when the thugs attacked and beat him mercilessly to the point that one of his eyes was severely damaged.

    The eyewitness stated that Shina’s ordeal began due to his loyalty to the PDP and refusal to support the deputy governor, which the thugs believed could jeopardize the ruling party’s chances in the ward.

    Read Also: Osun govt, APC differ over reinstatement of sacked party’s council chairmen

    He noted that Shina was rushed to the hospital to save his eye, adding that he expressed doubt over Shina’s recovery due to the severity of the assault.

    According to him, “It was a case of political crisis and I doubt if Shina has not lost his eye because I can’t imagine how hard he was hit in the eye by those thugs. Only God can save him from losing that eye.”

    In a related incident, a voter simply identified as Adebayo Nurudeen, also recounted how the PDP Returning Officer for the LG, Jide Jooda, was also hospitalized after being beaten by political thugs

    He added that a son of the former woman leader of the Ward, Babatunde Ogunmodede, was hit in the head while resisting the thugs’ attempts to disrupt the election process.

  • Reasons why you should get itel S23

    Reasons why you should get itel S23

    In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, finding the perfect device that combines power, performance, and style can be a challenge.

    Look no further than the itel S23. Packed with impressive features and innovative technology, this smartphone offers a compelling experience.

    Whether you’re a photography enthusiast, a gaming aficionado, or someone who values long-lasting battery life, the itel S23 has something for everyone. Here are six reasons why everyone should consider having the itel S23.

    Unleash Your Photography Skills with a 50MP Rear Camera:

    Capture stunning moments with exceptional clarity and vibrant colors using the itel S23’s powerful 50MP rear camera.

    The large F1.6 aperture and light-sensitive area per unit ensure clear and natural images with high color reproduction. Whether it’s low-light or daylight conditions, your photos will always shine.

    Seamless Gaming Experience with a High Refresh Rate:

    Gaming enthusiasts will appreciate the itel S23’s 90Hz screen refresh rate and 120Hz Touch Sampling rate.

    These features deliver smooth and fluid visuals, enhancing your gaming experience. Enjoy immersive graphics and responsive touch controls that take mobile gaming to the next level.


    Power that Lasts with a Big Battery and Fast Charging:
    Say goodbye to battery anxiety. The itel S23 boasts a robust 5000mAh battery that supports up to 15 hours of social software use.

    Whether you’re a socialite or a photo enthusiast, this device has your back. Additionally, the Type-C fast charging capability ensures that you spend less time plugged in and more time enjoying your smartphone.

    Enhanced Security and Convenience with Dual Unlock Technology:
    The itel S23 offers dual unlock technology, allowing you to access your device effortlessly and securely. Unlock your phone using either your fingerprint or face recognition, providing convenient options that prioritize your privacy and ease of use.

    Blazing-Fast Performance with an Octa-Core Processor:
    Experience seamless multitasking, smooth app launches, and efficient performance with the itel S23’s Octa-Core Processor (T606, Unisoc Tiger Series, 12nm).

    This powerful processor ensures that your device keeps up with your demands, whether it’s browsing the web, streaming videos, or running intensive applications.


    Stunning Visuals and Design:
    The itel S23 features a 6.6′ HD Waterdrop FullScreen Display with an ultra-narrow bezel for a clearer and more immersive picture experience.

    The subtle straight edge rounded design provides a comfortable grip, while the glass-like 3D Composite Panel and color-changing technology of the Starry Black and Mystery White variants add a touch of elegance and uniqueness to your smartphone.

    The itel S23 is a smartphone that caters to the diverse needs and preferences of users.

    With its powerful camera, high refresh rate, long-lasting battery, secure unlocking options, fast performance, and stunning design, it offers a compelling package that is hard to resist.

    Whether you’re capturing memorable moments, indulging in mobile gaming, or simply looking for a reliable and stylish device, the itel S23 is a worthy companion.

    Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience the power and versatility of this remarkable smartphone. Visit itel authorized stores nationwide and get your hands on the itel S23 today!

  • Cybersecurity awareness gains ground in West Africa’s financial sector

    Cybersecurity awareness gains ground in West Africa’s financial sector

    Across West Africa, banks and financial firms are paying closer attention to the human side of cybersecurity. For years, the focus was on software and firewalls. Now, the people who use them are becoming part of the conversation.

    Phishing and social-engineering attacks have increased across the region. Many succeed not because systems are weak, but because staff click unsafe links or share confidential data without thinking.

    “Technology on its own won’t close Africa’s cyber risk,” said Confidence Staveley, founder of CyberSafe Foundation, a non-profit that runs safety-awareness campaigns across the continent. Her organisation trains workers and students on digital-safety habits and has reached thousands of people through workshops and its #NoGoFallMaga campaign. “People have to be trained to use technology safely,” she added. “Awareness has to run alongside every security investment.”

    Her view is shared by many in the industry. Across the region, companies are beginning to treat cybersecurity awareness as a regular business function, not a one-off seminar.

    One person contributing to that effort is Emmanuel Adjah, who heads regional cybersecurity-growth programmes for Kaspersky across West and Southern Africa, working with DataGroupIT, its regional partner. His work focuses on helping organisations in Nigeria, Ghana, and SADC countries adopt and localise Kaspersky’s cybersecurity-awareness platform for their employees, and other cybersecurity tools.

    “We’ve learned that you can’t defend what people don’t understand,” he said. “Most awareness drives focus on what not to do. We focus on what people can do. How to check links, verify sources, and report suspicious messages quickly. When people know they can act, they become part of the defence.”

    Adjah says adoption often starts with leadership engagement. “Security culture has to start from the top,” he explained. “When executives participate in simulations and ask questions, it sets the tone for everyone else. But if it is treated as a tick-box exercise, everyone else will too.”

    At First Atlantic Bank in Ghana, the results have been noticeable. Glen Ajirakor, the bank’s IT Infrastructure and Security Manager, said Adjah’s involvement helped make the rollout smooth and relevant.

    “Emmanuel helped us tailor Kaspersky’s awareness platform to our workflow,” Glen said. “He made sure the content spoke to the risks our teams actually face and guided us on how to measure progress. The bank’s phishing-test results improved within months, and people became more alert in day-to-day tasks.”

    The numbers confirm the shift. “Before we started, about one in three employees clicked on fake phishing links during tests,” Glen explained. “Six months later, that number dropped below ten percent. People now stop and think before they click. It’s become part of our culture.”

    Adjah believes such results show that awareness, when properly adopted, can be as powerful as any technical control. “We didn’t add more tools,” he said. “We made better use of what was already available. The change came from participation, not just technology.”

    According to Verizon’s 2022 Data Breach Investigations Report, 82 percent of breaches involved the human element, showing how strongly human behaviour affects security outcomes. The pattern matches what leading advocates like Confidence Staveley have long promoted, and what newer voices such as Emmanuel Adjah are now helping organisations put into practice across the region.

    Still, many smaller firms struggle to maintain regular training. Some rely only on annual reminders that do little to change habits. But the direction is clear: cybersecurity awareness is moving from a side project to a core part of digital transformation.

    “Cybersecurity isn’t just about tools,” said Staveley. “It’s about people making better choices every day. And that change is finally starting to happen.”

    DISCLAIMER

    This publication is subject to updates and revisions. Kindly note that the information herein may be modified or expanded over time to reflect new developments.

    January 12, 2023

  • Osun State Adopts Digital Platform to Improve Hospital Operations

    Osun State has taken steps to enhance healthcare service delivery with the adoption of MediAID Plus, a digital health and medical service management platform introduced at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital.

    Journalists who followed developments at the teaching hospital confirmed that the platform was formally adopted on July 12, 2022, following approval by the state government through a Public-Private Partnership involving the Ministry of Health and relevant agencies.

    The platform, developed by Seun Paul Olatunji, supports patient record management, care verification, billing integration and electronic healthcare workflows within the hospital system.

    Confirming the development, the Public Relations Officer of the Osun State Ministry of Health said the adoption forms part of ongoing efforts to deploy technology to improve efficiency, accountability and coordination in public healthcare institutions.

    Hospital officials who spoke during media visits noted that the system has reduced dependence on manual processes and strengthened administrative coordination across departments.

    Observers say the move reflects a growing shift by state governments towards digital solutions aimed at addressing operational challenges in healthcare delivery through structured public-private collaboration.

    DISCLAIMER

    This publication is subject to updates and revisions. Kindly note that the information herein may be modified or expanded over time to reflect new developments.

    January 27, 2023

  • Africa’s finest: Nigerian supply chain experts making global impact

    Africa’s finest: Nigerian supply chain experts making global impact

    Building systems that connect people, goods and ideas require exceptional skills. A generation of professionals are now redefining the supply chain world. They are champions of trade and investment, architects of seamless supply chains, advocates of regional aviation, and promoters of economic growth. United by an unwavering commitment to solving critical challenges, Olori Boye-Ajayi, Seun Akinfolarin, Adefunke Adeyemi, Izin Akioya, and Dr. Ola Brown illuminate the many ways Nigerian talents are conquering and transforming the supply chain world. Their stories remind us that the supply chain is not merely about moving materials but about unlocking opportunity, reducing inequities and building resilient economies. Together, these exceptional leaders demonstrate the profound power of strategy, vision and human connection.

    Olori Boye-Ajayi

    A dynamic force in international trade and women’s economic empowerment, Olori Boye-Ajayi has championed the inclusion of African entrepreneurs in global markets with remarkable impact. As CEO of Borderless Trade & Investments, she has supported over 80,000 entrepreneurs to expand their reach beyond borders.

    Her journey began in 2017 in the textile and apparel sector, establishing a thriving sourcing and export operation serving Australia, the U.S., and the U.K. With more than a decade of expertise in trade, investment, and development, Boye-Ajayi is a pivotal voice in Africa’s structural transformation.

    She is the founder of The Katie Wang Company, a fashion export firm operating across four continents, helping African suppliers gain vital entry points into international markets. Her achievements have earned her prestigious honors, such as ‘International Woman of the Year’ at the Women4Africa UK Awards.

    Through the Borderless Trade Network, which spans Lagos, Accra, Monrovia, and the U.K., she has empowered over 10,000 women through facilitation programmes while partnering with the U.S. State Department’s Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) in Lagos. An honorary doctorate in Women’s Leadership and Global Trade Development from ESCAE University in Benin attests to her leadership.

    Boye-Ajayi also leads ‘WINHer,’ a gender-inclusive investment initiative of the Vanuatu Trade and Investment Office targeting Nigeria and South Africa. As MANSA Ambassador for AfreximBank, she continues to champion global inclusion for African SMEs, embodying the vision of an Africa whose trade is truly borderless.

    Seun Akinfolarin

    Seun Akinfolarin exemplifies a new generation of supply chain professionals who combine rigorous engineering discipline with global vision and operational savvy. With five years of diverse experience spanning procurement, logistics, quality engineering, and operations leadership, her career is a testament to solving complex problems through data, systems thinking and collaboration.

    From Lagos to Leicester, and now Houston, she has delivered operational excellence by enhancing ERP/MRP systems, optimising material planning, and leading cross-functional teams to reduce costs and improve efficiency. As Lead Sourcing Specialist, she oversees a $15 million supplier portfolio across the US and China, streamlines procurement operations and clears critical backlogs. Her tenure as Valves Operations Leader in Florida saw her lead lean initiatives that reduced cycle times and waste, while her role as Supplier Quality Engineer in the UK involved strengthening compliance and managing supplier relationships to global standards.

    Akinfolarin’s journey began as a Logistics Project Analyst in Lagos, where her cross-dock optimisation strategies saved over $400,000 in freight costs for Sub-Saharan Africa. A First-Class graduate of Chemical Engineering from the University of Lagos, she is certified in Lean Six Sigma Green Belt and APICS CPIM, with proficiency in SAP, Ariba and other tools.

    Beyond her technical achievements, she is a published researcher, an active member of global professional networks, and a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion within the energy industry, embodying the spirit of a leader determined to make supply chains smarter, more agile, and more equitable.

    Adefunke Adeyemi

    Adefunke Adeyemi is a distinguished figure whose work demonstrates the inextricable link between connectivity and economic growth. As the former Secretary General of the African Civil Aviation Commission (AFCAC), she led the African Union’s specialised agency for aviation, shaping policies that enable greater regional integration and sustainable development.

    Prior to her role at AFCAC, she served as Regional Director for Advocacy and Strategic Relations in Africa at the International Air Transport Association (IATA), where she championed the sustainability and advancement of aviation across the continent. She became a trusted liaison between airlines, governments, and the public, advocating for improved air connectivity as a catalyst for trade, tourism, and economic transformation.

    Recognised among the 200 Most Influential People of African Descent under the United Nations framework, Adeyemi’s leadership is informed by her profound commitment to Africa’s socio-economic progress.

    A lawyer by training, she holds a law degree from the University of Lagos, an LL.M. from the University of Cambridge, and an MBA from Nanyang Business School in collaboration with Wharton and Berkeley Haas, equipping her with the cross-disciplinary perspective necessary to navigate and transform complex regulatory and operational landscapes in aviation.

    Izin Akioya

    Izin Akioya is reimagining the infrastructure of trade and production across Africa through innovation and storytelling. As Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Supply Chain Africa, she has created a platform that amplifies the voices and solutions driving the continent’s supply chain transformation.

    She is also the founder of Ship Africa Global LLC, launched in 2020 to address systemic challenges in logistics, production capacity, and market entry for African producers. By forging strategic partnerships and leveraging technology, Ship Africa Global is helping indigenous businesses overcome long-standing barriers and compete on the global stage.

    An expert in mergers and acquisitions, Akioya champions their role in fostering the resilience of African startups. Her nearly two-decade career spans FMCG, consulting, advertising, and non-profit work, with deep expertise in marketing communications, stakeholder relations, and strategy.

    She also leads Identiti LLC, a marketing agency providing services in brand design, advocacy, content marketing, and corporate communications. As an author, her works, including Mum, Find Love Again and Lili, explore themes of identity, healing, and mastery through prose, poetry, and music.

    Beyond business, Akioya is a vibrant and unapologetic voice on social media, sharing insights on entrepreneurship, self-growth, and the creative journey, demonstrating that resilient supply chains depend not only on infrastructure but also on the stories that inspire trust, change, and collaboration.

    Dr. Ola Brown

    A visionary healthcare entrepreneur, Dr. Ola Brown has revolutionised emergency medical logistics in West Africa with the founding of Flying Doctors, a service born from personal tragedy but transformed into hope for millions. As West Africa’s first indigenous air ambulance service, Flying Doctors maintains the largest emergency medical network in the region, offering both fixed and rotary-wing aircraft to bridge the gap between critical patients and lifesaving care.

    Beyond aviation logistics, Dr. Brown has expanded her impact through Health Capital Africa, an investment company that supports nearly 30 startups in fintech, healthtech, and infrastructure. Its pipeline includes over $800 million in projects across healthcare, clean energy, and water.

    She also plays a prominent role in business leadership circles, serving on the British Business Group (Lagos) committee and leading the Healthcare Business Forum within the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce, while championing women’s inclusion in finance through Women in Finance Nigeria.

    A British-Nigerian physician born Olamide Orekunrin in London, she holds a medical degree from Hull York Medical School, a master’s in finance and economic policy from the University of London, and further credentials from IE Business School and the University of Michigan.

    Her work through the Flying Doctors Healthcare Investment Company spans hospital development, pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, and medical technologies, and as General Partner at HealthCap Africa, she focuses on early-stage investments that address Africa’s most pressing challenges.

    Internationally celebrated as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader and one of Forbes’ 20 Young Power Women in Africa, Dr. Brown’s career stands as proof that resilient supply chains are not just about goods in transit, but about saving lives, empowering innovators and building systems that serve humanity.

  • “There is urgent need to reduce neonatal mortality in Ado Ekiti” – Tolulope Ojo

    “There is urgent need to reduce neonatal mortality in Ado Ekiti” – Tolulope Ojo

    By Zainab Olufemi

    At the Annual College of Medicine and Health Sciences Research Day on 10 May 2022, held at Afe Babalola University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria, one presentation that stood out for its detailed exploration of neonatal care practices and its focus on improving survival rates among newborns was the one delivered by Mrs Tolulope Funmilola Ojo, a Sociologist and Demographer from the University.

    Ojo’s presentation, which she collaborated on alongside other researchers, captivated attendees with its blend of research-driven insights and practical solutions to reduce neonatal mortality. Her focus on bridging knowledge gaps and promoting effective care practices made her session one of the event’s highlights.

    In an interview, Ojo spoke about the significance of her work and what made her presentation particularly impactful.

    Mrs. Ojo, your presentation drew the most engagement at the conference and caught my attention. What do you think made it stand out?

    Thank you. I think what made it resonate was its practical focus on an issue that affects so many lives—neonatal survival. Everyone in the room could relate to the urgency of reducing neonatal mortality, especially in rural communities. The presentation combined research findings with real-world implications, and I believe the audience appreciated the actionable nature of the recommendations.

    Your work focuses on thermal and umbilical cord care for neonates. Why did you choose this specific area of research?

    Neonates are extremely vulnerable, particularly in the first few days of life, and complications such as hypothermia and umbilical cord infections are significant contributors to neonatal mortality. These are preventable issues, but they persist due to gaps in care practices. I wanted to explore how mothers in Ado-Ekiti navigate these challenges and identify practical ways to support better outcomes for newborns.

    What did your research uncover about current practices among mothers in Ado-Ekiti?

    The study revealed that while many mothers rely on traditional practices, they are not always aligned with medical recommendations. For example, some mothers delay drying and warming the baby immediately after birth, which increases the risk of hypothermia. Similarly, cultural beliefs often influence umbilical cord care, leading to the use of unsterilized substances that can cause infections. These findings highlight the need for more effective engagement during antenatal and postnatal care.

     What do you believe sets your approach apart in addressing these issues?

    The approach is grounded in understanding the socio-cultural context of the mothers. By listening to their perspectives and tailoring interventions to fit their realities, we create solutions they are more likely to adopt. It’s not just about introducing new practices; it’s about integrating them into the existing framework of beliefs and behaviors in a way that respects and supports the mothers.

    You emphasized education during your presentation. What role does education play in neonatal care?

    Education is fundamental. When mothers understand the importance of practices like keeping the baby warm or maintaining sterile conditions for the umbilical cord, they are empowered to take proactive steps. Antenatal and postnatal care visits are great opportunities for healthcare providers to share this knowledge, demonstrate the practices, and address misconceptions in a supportive environment.

    What impact do you hope this research will have on neonatal care in Ado-Ekiti and beyond?

    I hope it will lead to policy shifts that prioritise maternal and neonatal health education, especially in rural areas. By equipping healthcare workers and mothers with the tools and knowledge they need, we can significantly reduce neonatal mortality rates. My ultimate goal is to see these practices integrated into routine healthcare delivery, ensuring that every newborn has the best chance at survival.

    Thank you, Mrs. Ojo, for your time and for sharing your insights. Your presentation has certainly highlighted an area of great importance.

    Thank you for the opportunity to discuss this work. I’m glad it has sparked interest and engagement.

  • How I started Jenik Freight forwarding company, by Jekwu Onwughalu

    How I started Jenik Freight forwarding company, by Jekwu Onwughalu

    Chukwujekwu Maduabuchukwu Onwughalu, founder of Jenik Freight, a Calgary-based logistics company focused on international freight forwarding with speciality in providing import and export services via ocean and air to worldwide destinations, is fast becoming one of the leading business figures in the world.

    Also known as Jekwu Onwughalu, he studied mechanical engineering at the Federal University of Technology (FUTO) Owerri, Imo State, South-East Nigeria. He courted his lobe for how engine components work independently and as a whole from his father—an auto-mechanic operator and to whom he was very attached. He would spend time at his workshop for hands-on experience during his undergraduate years.

    “My dad had loyal and satisfied customers who referred new clients and as the business grew I began to feel an attachment to it and wanted to advance it further. I then applied to study mechanical engineering at the university – FUTO. I often spent my holidays with my dad in the mechanic workshop to gain hands-on experience. Unfortunately, life has other plans for me as my dad underwent a major surgery that changed his life completely and he came unfit to continue to work as a mechanic years before I graduated”, he said in an interview.

    Jekwu Onwughalu bagged a master’s degree in petroleum engineering from the prestigious Heriot Watt University in Scotland, United Kingdom, and spent 15 years professionally in Drilling, Completions and Workover Operations in Nigeria and internationally. He became an entrepreneur after more than a decade of paid employment. He migrated to Canada 12 years ago and established Jenik Freight in 2016.

    Jekwu Onwughalu leveraged his expertise and network to establish Jenik Freight, in his quest to bridge identified gaps in shipping to underserved areas and drive innovation in the logistics industry. Six years later, the company has grown to become one of the fastest growing and a trusted logistics and freight partner, shipping to every location worldwide with partners in over 150 ports and 300 cities worldwide.

    Read Also: FG inducts 400 freight forwarding graduates

    The international businessman and trade expert revealed that one major way he surmount being a black migrant and businessman in North America is by dreaming big. Explaining the secret of the company’s success, Jekwu Onwughalu disclosed that customer satisfaction is core to Jenik Freight.

    “Being an immigrant in Canada has its own challenges but growth is inevitable if you dream big, work hard and have your mind on the goal. My main challenge as an Entrepreneur is mainly on how to sustain and scale by business. We don’t have a lot of successful black businesses that will motivate you and you will learn from. Our core value is excellent customer service. 

    “We try as much as possible to make sure that we give excellent customer service to all our customers. In the course of running my business, I realized that networking and building meaningful relationships is a catalyst to rapid growth. So I invested in networking events and building relationships,” added Chukwujekwu Maduabuchukwu Onwughalu.

  • Turning School Records Into Results: How Education Platform Uses Data to Improve Learning Outcomes

    Turning School Records Into Results: How Education Platform Uses Data to Improve Learning Outcomes

    Schools across Africa still struggle with fragmented records, delayed reporting, and limited visibility into student progress. Chinenye Peace Amaechi, founder of A2Z Digital Tracker, says the future of education depends on turning raw records into actionable insight for teachers, school leaders, and parents.

    What problem did A2Z Digital Tracker set out to solve?

    Schools were drowning in paperwork attendance, results, reports, and parent communication were manual. That manual workload reduced teaching time and delayed interventions. A2Z was built to digitise progress tracking and make performance monitoring faster and more accurate.

    What does the platform actually track, and for who?

    It tracks attendance, continuous assessment, exam results, learning milestones, and progress summaries. Teachers input data, school leaders view performance dashboards, and parents receive structured progress updates where the school enables that feature.

    What’s the key innovation compared with typical “school portal” products?

    Most portals just store data. Our focus is decision support flags for early intervention, trend views, and reporting that helps leaders act. It’s the difference between “data kept” and “data used.”

    How do you convince schools and teachers to adopt a new system?

    Adoption is behavioural. We simplify onboarding, provide templates, and focus on the teacher’s daily reality. If the product saves time in week one, adoption grows. If it feels like extra work, it fails no matter how advanced it is.

    What measurable outcomes do you look for to prove impact?

    Time saved on reporting, improved accuracy, faster parent communication cycles, and how quickly schools can identify learning gaps. If we can shorten the feedback loop between performance and intervention, outcomes improve.

    How do you handle data privacy, especially for minors?

    We design access control by roles, ensure secure authentication, and encourage schools to follow data governance policies. Where relevant, we align processes with privacy best practices especially around consent, limited access, and safe data sharing.

    Many schools operate in low-bandwidth environments. How do you design for that?

    You optimise performance, reduce heavy pages, and design workflows that don’t require constant connectivity. A product that only works in perfect conditions will fail. Reliability is innovation in these contexts.

    What challenges have you faced in building for schools versus other sectors?

    Education is complex because stakeholders are many, teachers, administrators, parents. You have to design for multiple user types, and you must avoid tech that disrupts classroom flow. Education tech must respect real human rhythms.

    What’s your view on the next step for EdTech in Africa?

    Interoperability and analytics. Systems should talk to each other so schools can integrate learning data, finance data, and admin processes. The goal is not “more apps,” but better connected infrastructure.

    If you could advise policymakers or school owners in one sentence, what would you say?

    Treat education data like infrastructure: invest in systems that make progress measurable, interventions timely, and accountability transparent because what you can’t measure, you can’t improve.

    Conclusion

    “Good education technology doesn’t just digitise records, it improves decisions.”

    DISCLAIMER

    This publication is subject to updates and revisions. Kindly note that the information herein may be modified or expanded over time to reflect new developments.

    October 10, 2022