A foremost technology marketing firm and organizers of The Port Harcourt Tech Expo, TechNexus Limited, has announced the 2025 edition of the programme.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TechNexus, Belema George, confirmed the development and said stakeholders were waiting for the event to kick off on May 27th and 28th at the EUI Event Centre in Port Harcourt.
George, who spoke in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, confirmed the theme of the 2025 edition as, “Emergence”, and said it would surpass the 2024 experience.
He recalled that the 2024 edition of the Port Harcourt Tech Expo held in April last year and supported by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) witnesses an impressive turnout and engagement from tech enthusiasts and professionals.
George said last year’s event recorded outstanding online registrations of 6,053 individuals, with an additional 550 individuals registering on-site.
He said the total physical attendance last year reached about 4,900, which he said was evidence of a strong local interest and participation.
He noted that the virtual attendance was remarkable with approximately 300,000 individuals joining the event online, reflecting the Expo’s broad appeal and accessibility.
George added that the 2024 Expo featured a variety of tech innovations, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, solidifying its reputation as a premier tech event in the region.
“The high level of participation both in person and virtually underscores the growing interest in technology and innovation in Port Harcourt and beyond”.
George said building on the success of 2024, the 2025 edition was designed to showcase cutting-edge technologies, groundbreaking startups, and thought-provoking discussions that will shape the future of technology in Africa and beyond.
He said participants could look forward to Interactive workshops and hands-on demos from leading tech companies; Inspiring keynote speeches from global tech visionaries; networking opportunities with industry experts, investors, and fellow tech enthusiasts as well as exhibitions featuring the latest advancements in AI, robotics, blockchain, among others.
George said: “We are thrilled to bring the tech community together once again in Port Harcourt. The success of the 2024 Expo was a testament to the incredible talent and innovation in our region. This year, we aim to push the boundaries even further and provide an unparalleled experience for all attendees.”
As bank fees continue to rise and transaction failures become a common frustration, millions of Nigerians are turning to PalmPay, a digital banking platform offering seamless transactions, free transfers, and attractive savings options.
For Usman, a devoted PalmPay user, the switch has been transformative.
“I don’t need cash to make payments, I transact with zero charges, and the digital banking service is 100% reliable,” he said.
Usman’s experience reflects a growing trend across the country, where many Nigerians seek alternatives to traditional banks. With increasing bank fees and unreliable transaction networks, PalmPay has emerged as a cost-effective and dependable solution.
PalmPay offers a comprehensive suite of financial services that cater to various user needs. While many customers utilize loans through Flexi, a third-party credit provider on the app, others leverage its high-yield savings products and seamless transaction capabilities. This level of reliability has positioned PalmPay as a top-tier digital banking platform.
In an economy where every naira counts, PalmPay’s features are proving increasingly attractive to users: Unlimited Free Transfers: As Nigeria transitions to a cashless economy, digital banking has become essential. A recent NIBSS report highlights the surge in e-banking transactions, with PalmPay users benefiting from free interbank and intrabank transfers, eliminating excessive banking costs; High-Yield Savings Options: With over 10 million users taking advantage of its savings products, PalmPay offers some of the highest interest rates in the market.
Recently, the platform announced a N4 billion payout to its savings users, reinforcing its reputation as a preferred savings solution amid economic challenges; Cashback Rewards: PalmPay’s cashback program remains a popular feature, allowing users to earn rewards on transactions, making everyday banking not just cost-effective but also rewarding.
PalmPay’s reliability was put to the test during the recent banking network breakdown, which left many Nigerians unable to access their funds. With a 99.9% transaction success rate, PalmPay proved to be a lifeline for users like Sarah, a university student in Ibadan.
“Banks were down, but I was able to carry out transactions on my PalmPay app completely free to all banks,” Sarah said. “I could still transfer money and pay for things without worrying about failed transactions or extra charges. It was a lifesaver.”
As Nigeria moves towards a fully digital economy, the demand for dependable and cost-effective financial solutions is at an all-time high. With over 35 million users nationwide, PalmPay continues to provide innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of Nigerians.
FATAL Audu Emmanuel, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture, Lagos State, has said that the Olokpo App which was formally unveiled in Lagos on Monday will create new value chains in agriculture.
Emmanuel, who represented the Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Systems, Mrs. Abisola Olusanya at the launch of the app said: “Innovations like this align with the use of technology to boost food service and by extension agricultural production itself.”
Olokpo, is the revolutionary catering service app that will connect customers with food vendors, caterers, and other service providers in the catering value chain, Chief Operating Officer, Faiken Dawn Group, Jennifer Onose Eromosele, said, the owner of the Olokpo app.
According to her, the app, which has 100 percent local content, was developed to address the challenges people face in getting catering services when they need them.
Coined from an indigenous name in Nigeria, Olokpo, which means ‘People that cook good food’ was designed to revolutionise catering service within the neighbourhood. The app offers innovative features such as easy connectivity, trust, quality food, as well as seamless payment and booking methods.
It will be launched internationally soon.
Addressing the issue of verification of professional and trustworthy caterers who will operate on the Olokpo platform, Eromosele said caterers have to undergo several stages of verification, which include facial recognition, email address, full names, phone number that is linked to BVN and location.”
“The app will surmount the persistent challenge of finding skilled caterers within close vicinities, as it is designed to connect users with caterers nearest to them, using a map-based interface
Eromosele said of the potential of the app to be used as an empowerment platform for thousands of caterers who do not have the resources to market their businesses. “Once you are on the app, your business is global,” she said.
Among those who attended the event were former Super Eagles player, Waidi Akanni, who is a huge fan of the Olokpo app, Mrs. Stella Monye, President of Association of Event Planners, Nigeria, Mrs. Bisi Sotunde of Busy Bee Luxury Events and Academy, Convener of WWGT tribe of culinary experts, and Mrs. Obianuju Arinze, President of the International Society of Bakers.
Subscribers to the Olokpo app can enroll from the Google store.
A decade ago, mobile technology was seen as a mere enabler—tools that connected people, captured moments, and delivered content. Today, it has become something more—a bridge between creativity and opportunity, a canvas where artistry meets innovation. At the heart of this evolution is TECNO, a brand that has not only provided cutting-edge devices but has actively shaped the landscape of African entertainment, giving both established stars and emerging talents the platform to shine.
TECNO’s footprint in entertainment is unmistakable. From Big Brother Naija to Nigerian Idol, the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), and Lagos Fashion Week, the brand has seamlessly blended technology with entertainment, ensuring that fans, participants, and audiences alike experience more than just a spectacle—they engage with technology in ways that enhance the creative process. Whether through interactive activations in Big Brother Naija or rewarding the winners of Nigerian Idol, TECNO extends its impact beyond the main stage, ensuring viewers at home also share in the celebration.
Nowhere is this commitment more profound than in TECNO’s sponsorship of AMVCA’s Best Cinematographer Category. For two years, the brand has supported and rewarded the visual storytellers shaping African narratives. This is not just about recognition; it is about fueling an industry where African filmmakers can push boundaries, tell their stories boldly, and be celebrated for it. The engagement extends to Lagos Fashion Week, where TECNO’s presence is not just about brand visibility but about empowering designers and enthusiasts, creating unforgettable moments that blend fashion with technology.
Yet, TECNO’s role in entertainment is not confined to sponsorships and partnerships. It actively cultivates talent, providing tools and opportunities for creatives to refine their craft. The Shot on CAMON competition is a perfect example—an initiative that has nurtured a new wave of short filmmakers, proving that powerful storytelling is not limited by budget but amplified by innovation. Many of these filmmakers have moved beyond the competition stage to win national and international recognition, proving that creativity, when given the right platform, knows no bounds.
The impact of TECNO’s technology in entertainment is evident in the devices themselves. The CAMON series, for instance, has transformed mobile filmmaking, putting professional-grade tools in the hands of storytellers. This is not just a marketing statement—filmmaker Kayode Kasum demonstrated this when he shot ‘The Thing with Feathers’ and ‘Hidden Figure’ entirely on the CAMON 20 Premier 5G, reinforcing the idea that groundbreaking technology can democratize creativity. Beyond cameras, TECNO devices have become hubs for content creation, storytelling, and digital expression, allowing users to push the limits of what is possible.
At its core, TECNO’s vision in entertainment is about empowerment. The philosophy is simple: stop At nothing—until dreams are realized, until creativity flourishes and until talent finds the recognition it deserves. Whether through technology, sponsorship, or direct creative engagement, TECNO is not just witnessing the evolution of entertainment—it is helping shape its future. To learn more about TECNO’s innovations, follow TECNO on Instagram, Facebook, and X.
Zainab Akinola is a prodigious young software engineer who achieved an extraordinary milestone by graduating in software engineering before the age of 16. Initially aspiring to become a medical doctor, unforeseen circumstances redirected her path toward technology—a shift she now sees as a fortunate opportunity. In this interview with The Nation, Zainab explained how she earned over 30 certifications in software engineering, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, gaining knowledge from esteemed experts worldwide.
Congratulations on your graduation from ALX Software Engineering! How does it feel to achieve this milestone at such a young age?
Thank you! It feels incredible. When I began this journey, I never thought I would graduate in software engineering before turning 16. My initial dream was to pursue medicine, but circumstances led me to delve into software engineering. Now, I see it as a fortunate turn of events. I’ve had the chance to learn from esteemed experts globally, earning over 30 certifications in software engineering, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. This journey has expanded my horizons and inspired me to merge AI with medicine to tackle real-world healthcare issues.
You finished secondary school at just 12 years old, which is impressive. How did that happen?
I was fortunate to have an accelerated education, which enabled me to complete secondary school early. I’ve always had a strong passion for learning, especially in subjects like Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology. I took the JAMB exam in 2023 and scored 262, feeling confident about my chances of studying medicine. However, I was devastated to learn that I couldn’t gain admission due to Nigeria’s 16-year minimum age requirement for university enrollment.
That must have been difficult. How did you handle that setback?
It was really tough because becoming a medical doctor has been my dream since I was a child. My father always called me “Doctor Zainab” and encouraged me to pursue a career in medicine, believing that there weren’t enough Muslim female doctors in our hospitals. When I found out I had to wait four years before I could start university, I felt completely lost.
But then my father suggested I look into software engineering while I waited. Initially, I wasn’t interested at all, but he explained how artificial intelligence is changing the field of medicine. He convinced me that if I could merge AI with medicine, I could help tackle some of the complex challenges in healthcare. That idea really resonated with me, and I decided to give it a shot.
You have earned over 30 certifications in software engineering, AI, and machine learning. Can you tell us more about your learning journey?
Of course! One of the most exciting parts of my journey has been learning from renowned experts around the world. My educational experience includes:
• ALX Software Engineering Program – Focused on front-end development.
• Techvinson Academy – Concentrated on back-end software engineering.
• KemonAI – Specialized in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
• Udemy, RITA Africa, SheCodes, and GreatLearning – Completed various courses in AI, machine learning, web development, and other tech-related fields.
Through these platforms, I’ve established a strong foundation in programming languages such as C, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Java, and Python. I’ve also gained skills in frameworks and libraries like React and Bootstrap. My expertise extends to development tools like Git and GitHub, as well as preprocessor technologies like SASS. The variety of teaching methods and advanced topics I’ve encountered have helped me grow into a well-rounded software developer.
That’s impressive! What kind of projects have you worked on so far?
I’ve worked on several projects to put my skills into practice, including:
• A Quote Generator – It creates random inspirational quotes.
. E-commerce website. Online store to sell and buy products
. Real Estate Company App. For real estate companies
. Portfolio website. This showcases my work, certificates and projects
• A Poem Generator – This one uses AI to craft poetry.
• Chatbots for Schools and Law Firms – These automate communication for various institutions.
• Web and Mobile Applications – I developed these using modern technologies like React and Python.
These projects have provided me with valuable hands-on experience in problem-solving and innovation, which has prepared me for more significant challenges in the field.
Even with all these accomplishments in software engineering, you still want to study medicine. How do you plan to merge both fields?
Absolutely, my passion for medicine remains strong. However, I now envision a broader perspective—I don’t just want to be a doctor; I aspire to be a doctor who incorporates AI into the medical field. AI is already making significant strides in healthcare, from diagnosing diseases to enabling robotic surgeries and advancing medical research. My aim is to specialize in an area that leverages AI for medical innovations.
Currently, I’m exploring courses that blend AI with medicine. Unfortunately, I haven’t come across any programs in Nigeria that offer this combination. That’s why I’m considering international universities where I can study either Artificial Intelligence or a program that merges AI with medicine. If any university can offer me a spot, I would be thrilled to accept it.
You’re currently 14. Are you planning to wait until you turn 16 to apply for a university in Nigeria, or do you have other plans?
I still have two years until I turn 16, so I don’t want to just sit around. I’m eager to keep learning about AI and medicine. During this time, I plan to dive into more research, work on advanced projects, and look for scholarship opportunities abroad. If I get an offer from an international university, I would definitely accept it because I want to pursue both programming and medicine. My goal is to find a course that lets me combine these two passions.
You’re also pursuing an ND program at Transformation College of Business and Technology. How do you manage to balance all these commitments?
It really comes down to effective time management and having discipline. I make sure to organize my schedule thoughtfully and establish clear priorities. Some days can be quite tough, but I keep my motivation high because I have specific goals in mind. Having a solid support system, especially from my family, has been incredibly helpful.
Looking back, do you think not getting into university at 12 was actually a blessing in disguise?
Absolutely! Initially, it felt like a major setback, but now I view it differently. If I had jumped straight into medicine, I might never have explored software engineering and AI. Now, I have a unique perspective—I understand both the medical field and technology. This combination will enable me to make a meaningful impact in healthcare that goes beyond traditional practices. I truly believe everything happens for a reason, and my journey is preparing me for something greater.
Finally, what advice do you have for young people facing unexpected challenges in their career paths?
My advice is straightforward: Don’t view setbacks as failures. Instead, think of them as opportunities for redirection. If things don’t go as planned, keep your spirits up. Look for other possibilities and continue to learn. Often, the path you didn’t expect can lead to the greatest rewards. Stay curious, embrace new knowledge, and always hold on to your dreams.
Thank you, Zainab! Your story is incredibly inspiring. We can’t wait to see the amazing things you will achieve.
Thank you! I’m really looking forward to the future and am eager to make a difference.
All is set for the Ibom Blockchain Summit 2.0, a groundbreaking event poised to be the largest blockchain gathering in South-South Nigeria.
Scheduled to take place from March 19 to 22 at the prestigious Ibom Hall, Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the summit will explore the theme “The Odyssey,” signifying the transformative journey of blockchain technology in Africa and beyond.
Bringing together industry leaders, developers, policymakers, and blockchain enthusiasts, the event promises insightful discussions, hands-on workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at fostering blockchain adoption, innovation, and investment.
According to the organisers, the summit will feature expert keynote speakers, panel discussions, and live demonstrations on emerging trends in decentralized finance, non-fungible tokens, smart contracts, and Web3 applications.
Attendees will gain firsthand knowledge of how blockchain is reshaping industries such as finance, governance, healthcare, and agriculture in Nigeria and across the globe.
As the blockchain revolution gains momentum, the Ibom Blockchain Summit 2025 is expected to attract top stakeholders from within and outside the country, solidifying Uyo’s position as a growing hub for blockchain technology and digital innovation.
Stakeholders, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts are encouraged to participate and explore new opportunities in the blockchain space.
CEO of LLC Aiga (1990-1992) · General Director and founder of BMW dealership in Russia (1991-1994) · Deputy Director of CJSC Setun Ltd. (1992-1994) · Deputy CEO of German-Russian joint venture ATA-SET (1994-1996) · CEO of JSC Setun Trade (Moscow) (1996-2000) · Member of the Board of Directors of JSC Setun Trade (Moscow) (2001) · Financial Director of CJSC Management Company Stin Holding (2001-2002) · Member of the Supervisory Board of JSC Rosterminalugol (2004-2010)
Gennady Ayvazyan is an entrepreneur and an investment. With a career that spans luxury cars, agrotechnology, and high-growth sectors, Gennady Ayvazyan has built a legacy of strategic investments. His foresight has led him to champion AI and sustainable technologies while mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs to thrive in the ever-evolving global market.
Gennady Ayvazyan was born on April 3, 1968, in the Soviet capital. His formative years coincided with the Brezhnev period, an era that dominated Soviet politics from the 1960s through the early 1980s. This epoch, characterized by economic stagnation and political inertia, marked a stark contrast to the rapid changes of previous decades.
In 1975, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich embarked on his educational journey during an era when the Soviet schooling system placed significant emphasis on discipline and collective values. The educational framework of that period was strategically designed to cultivate engineering talent and skilled industrial specialists. While his contemporaries fixated on equations and machinery, Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan charted an unconventional course, immersing himself in foreign languages with an intensity that transcended the rigid curriculum. Mastering English and Czech, he foresaw the immense value of linguistic prowess as a gateway to global influence.
By the turbulent mid-1980s, as the Soviet Union braced itself for the seismic shifts of perestroika and glasnost, Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan’s linguistic acumen ascended to newfound prominence. With schools pivoting to prioritize foreign languages and cross-cultural awareness, Ayvazyan Gennady seized the moment, honing his multilingual expertise amidst a backdrop of monumental change. Graduating high school in 1985, he opted to transform his fervor for languages into a professional endeavor by enrolling in an elite program for translation and interpretation, a key turning point highlighted in the Gennady Ayvazyan biography.
During five transformative years at university, Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan refined his linguistic prowess with relentless precision, mastering the intricate art of translation that captures not just meaning but the essence and nuance of every word. His academic journey reached its zenith in 1990, marked by a degree in Linguistics and Translation—an achievement timed perfectly with the Soviet Union’s dramatic pivot to a market economy.
A Ride to Success in Russia’s Auto Market
Gennady Ayvazyan opened the country’s first BMW dealership
The early 1990s in Russia heralded a dramatic shift in the economic landscape, as the collapse of the Soviet regime unlocked doors previously sealed by state control, sparking the ascent of private enterprise and the formalization of commerce. In this volatile yet opportunistic milieu, figures like Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan capitalized on the newfound freedoms, seizing the moment to carve out a niche in a burgeoning market. As the CEO of Aiga, his deftness in financial stewardship and strategy became evident, steering the company through a landscape fraught with risk yet brimming with potential.
At Aiga, Ayvazyan Gennady’s role was both expansive and pivotal. He meticulously managed budget development, resource distribution, and cost-efficiency strategies, all while cultivating key partnerships with essential contractors. His forward-thinking approach to management, as highlighted in the Gennady Ayvazyan biography, coupled with a sharp acumen for market analysis, swiftly translated into tangible results, significantly boosting the company’s operational performance and profitability.
Pioneering the Russian Auto Dealership Industry
The early 1990s marked the dawn of a chaotic yet promising frontier for Russia’s auto dealership sector, where the absence of official dealerships saw foreign cars primarily entering the market through informal avenues, often at the hands of individual resellers. In the midst of this uncharted terrain, Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan astutely recognized the burgeoning appetite for luxury automobiles and seized the opportunity to pioneer one of the first BMW dealerships in Russia.
Taking matters into his own hands, he personally negotiated with BMW’s executives in Munich, persuading them to take a calculated risk on the uncharted Russian market. Despite the uncertainties, he successfully secured an initial batch of vehicles. The first showroom, humble in appearance and more akin to a parking lot than a gleaming retail environment, belied the vision that would soon come to life. Under Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan’s stewardship, the dealership rapidly transformed into a refined auto center, complete with robust infrastructure and a dedicated workshop for servicing German-engineered vehicles.
In post-Soviet Russia, BMW transcended its role as a mere car brand, becoming a powerful symbol of prestige and aspiration. Ayvazyan Gennady expertly harnessed this allure, expanding his dealership’s offerings beyond BMW to include other luxury marques such as Mercedes and Range Rover. As detailed in the Gennady Ayvazyan biography, his meticulous attention to detail permeated every aspect of the operation, from the precision of parts ordering to the rigors of financial accounting.
After years of remarkable success, Ayvazyan Gennady chose to divest his stake in the dealership.
Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan: Game-Changing Role in Russia’s Food Market
The 1990s in Russia were marked by severe product shortages and a heavy reliance on food imports, as the country’s domestic agriculture struggled to recover from the turmoil of the post-Soviet era. In this environment, imported goods—most notably the infamous “Bush Legs,” a frozen chicken from the United States—became ubiquitous, dominating the market amid widespread scarcity. Yet, amid this disarray, Gennady Ayvazyan saw fertile ground for innovation, recognizing the potential to capitalize on the growing demand for more reliable, high-quality food sources.
Building on his negotiation skills and deep understanding of logistics, Gennady Ayvazyan expanded his horizons into the food supply chain industry, founding Setun Trade to address the market’s growing need for fresh produce. As highlighted in the Gennady Ayvazyan biography, spotting inefficiencies in the existing logistics networks, he took a hands-on approach to overhaul operations, leasing railway cars to ferry goods to Russia’s borders while negotiating barter agreements with local carriers to ensure efficient domestic distribution.
In Moscow, Ayvazyan Gennady led the revitalization of abandoned vegetable warehouses, transforming these neglected spaces into vital distribution hubs for fresh produce. Recognizing the logistical challenges of perishable goods, he organized a network of private drivers operating light freight transport, effectively pioneering one of the region’s first delivery services for time-sensitive produce. Under his leadership, Setun Trade quickly became a cornerstone in ensuring a consistent and reliable supply of fruits and vegetables to Moscow and its surrounding areas.
Year
Company
Position
1990–1992
LLC Aiga
Chief Executive Officer
1991–1994
BMW dealership in Russia
Chief Executive Officer and founder
1992–1994
CJSC Setun Ltd.
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
1994–1996
German-Russian joint venture ATA-SET
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
1996–2000
JSC Setun Trade (Moscow)
Chief Executive Officer
2001
JSC Setun Trade (Moscow)
Member of the Board of Directors
2001–2002
CJSC Management Company Stin Holding
Financial Director
2004–2010
JSC Rosterminalugol
Member of the Supervisory Board
Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich: Formula for High-Rewards and Ethical Growth
Gennady Ayvazyan works as a private investor today
As the 2000s progressed, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich’s entrepreneurial acumen prompted him to expand his portfolio, briefly delving into the trade of natural resources, where he capitalized on the surging global demand for Russia’s rich raw materials. Yet, by 2011, Gennady Ayvazyan made a deliberate and calculated decision to pivot away from this sector, severing ties with the industry by resigning from all managerial roles and board memberships.
Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich then began working as a passive investor. His investment strategy has evolved alongside the shifting tides of global markets. In the early stages of his journey, his portfolio was dominated by traditional sectors. Recognizing the increasing role of technology and sustainability in shaping the future, he gradually diversified into high-growth areas like IT, artificial intelligence, and ESG-focused industries.
Gennady Ayvazyan’s investments in IT have strategically focused on companies pioneering automated solutions for crop planning and loss prevention, tackling some of the most pressing inefficiencies in global food production.
Gennady Ayvazyan’s investment strategy is a refined fusion of diversification, long-term foresight, and unwavering ethical responsibility. His portfolio strikes a careful balance between stable, income-generating assets and high-risk, high-reward ventures in emerging sectors.
When evaluating new ventures, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich employs a rigorous methodology that includes:
Financial Analysis: Detailed scrutiny of a company’s financial health and business model.
Market Research: Identifying sectors with resilient growth potential, such as healthcare and online education.
Risk Assessment: Aligning investments with his tolerance for short-term volatility.
Sustainability Focus: Prioritizing companies committed to environmental stewardship and ethical practices.
Advising the Next Generation
Beyond his investment acumen, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich serves as a mentor and coach to emerging entrepreneurs, leveraging his extensive experience to guide the next generation of business leaders. Through his consulting practice, he offers holistic support, assisting with everything from crafting robust business plans to fine-tuning market strategies. Drawing from his own entrepreneurial journey, he helps startups navigate the intricacies of scaling operations, penetrating new markets, and securing vital funding.
Gennady Ayvazyan’s hands-on approach drives innovation across diverse industries, fostering the rapid adoption of transformative technologies. By actively collaborating with startups in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, he accelerates their growth and integration, creating a ripple effect that transcends his immediate investments and reshapes the broader landscape.
Bold Bet on Agri-Tech Future
Gennady Sergeevich Ayvazyan’s investment philosophy is a sophisticated reflection of his vast experience within the agro-industrial sector, where early on he discerned the transformative potential of technology to revolutionize agriculture.
A prime example of his strategic influence in agrotechnology, as noted in the Gennady Ayvazyan biography, is his involvement with startups like an AI-powered system that equips tractors and combines with autonomous navigation.
Leading Agrotechnology
The global agrotechnology sector has witnessed extraordinary expansion, with a surge of startups spearheading breakthrough solutions that are reshaping the landscape. Major agricultural enterprises are progressively integrating AI, robotics, and digital platforms to enhance operational efficiency and minimize waste, marking a paradigm shift in the industry. Ayvazyan Gennady, ever the forward-thinking investor, has been both a vocal advocate and a hands-on participant in this transformation.
For example, Gennady Ayvazyan’s expertise played a role in securing funding for a grain-trading marketplace that revolutionized supply chain operations, offering farmers and distributors a more streamlined and efficient model. By mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs, he not only nurtures visionary ideas but also transforms them into commercially viable ventures, facilitating their seamless integration into the market and ensuring their long-term success in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Investing in Education and Health
Gennady Ayvazyan has invested in several educational projects
Beyond his impressive professional accomplishments, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich has consistently championed community development and social responsibility, dedicating significant efforts to initiatives that enhance education, healthcare, and infrastructure in underserved regions. Throughout his career, he actively partnered with local organizations, channeling resources and creating opportunities that fostered sustainable growth and long-term positive impact.
One notable project involved funding scholarships for underprivileged students, enabling them to pursue higher education in fields such as engineering and linguistics. Gennady Ayvazyan believed that investing in education was a critical pathway to fostering long-term societal growth.
In addition to his educational initiatives, Ayvazyan Gennady Sergeevich spearheaded food donation drives and forged partnerships with logistics companies to deliver essential supplies to remote areas during times of economic instability.
In the past few years of his biography, Gennady Ayvazyan has been systematically eliminating his passive investments, divesting his portfolio of company shares and ownership stakes. This strategic move represents a complete withdrawal from passive investment vehicles, bringing his holdings to zero.
Key Takeaways
Gennady Ayvazyan’s diverse portfolio spans from luxury cars to cutting-edge agrotechnology, highlighting his foresight in identifying high-growth sectors.
Gennady Ayvazyan’s early mastery of foreign languages paved the way for global opportunities, becoming a cornerstone of his strategic approach to business.
As a leader in Russia’s post-Soviet auto market, Ayvazyan Gennady revolutionized luxury car dealerships by introducing BMW and expanding to other premium brands.
Gennady Ayvazyan’s forward-thinking investments in agrotechnology, including AI-powered autonomous machinery, are reshaping the global agricultural landscape.
Beyond investments, Ayvazyan Gennady actively mentors emerging entrepreneurs, sharing his expertise in scaling operations and fostering innovation across industries.
FAQs
What sectors has Gennady Ayvazyan impacted throughout his career?
Gennady Ayvazyan has made significant contributions to luxury automobiles, agrotechnology, and high-growth sectors, including AI, blockchain, and sustainable technologies.
How did Gennady Ayvazyan use his linguistic skills to shape his career?
Ayvazyan Gennady’s proficiency in languages like English and Czech allowed him to seize global business opportunities, paving the way for his entrepreneurial ventures in international markets.
What was Ayvazyan’s role in transforming Russia’s auto dealership industry?
Ayvazyan Gennady pioneered one of the first BMW dealerships in Russia, expanding his offerings to include luxury brands like Mercedes and Range Rover, revolutionizing the local automotive market.
How is Gennady Ayvazyan advancing agrotechnology?
Ayvazyan Gennady supports agrotechnology innovations, including AI-driven autonomous farming equipment and satellite-based soil assessments.
What philanthropic efforts has Gennady Ayvazyan been involved in?
Ayvazyan Gennady has funded scholarships for underprivileged students, supported food donation drives, and worked on infrastructure projects to promote sustainable growth in underserved communities.
Payscribe an idea that began as a simple personal project by a young Nigerian entrepreneur has evolved into one of the most quietly influential fintech infrastructures on the continent. From its humble beginnings as a small automation idea, Payscribe, founded by Philip Sokoya in Lagos, Nigeria, has grown into a platform powering over 900 businesses and reaching more than 250,000 users across industries and regions.
At first glance, Payscribe might look like just another payment company in Africa’s crowded fintech scene. But beneath the surface lies a story about simplicity, innovation, and a deep understanding of the pain points that hold back emerging startups particularly those dreaming of building fintech solutions but lacking access to infrastructure, compliance resources, or developer talent.
From a simple idea to a scalable infrastructure
“I just wanted to automate things, because I love coding” recalls Philip Sokoya, Payscribe’s founder and CEO. “I saw the way things were being done in the digital space, and I knew there had to be a simpler, more efficient way.”
That pursuit of simplicity became the seed that grew into Payscribe. Initially, the company operated as a B2C product, catering directly to customers for personal transactions and bill payments. But as the product gained traction, Sokoya and his team noticed a growing pattern businesses and founders were struggling to launch fintech products because of the complex, expensive ecosystem that surrounded them.
“Payment remains fragmented,” Philip explains. “If you want to launch a fintech product say, card-as-a-service you have to worry about compliance, developers, infrastructure, product managers, and other costs that can kill your dream before it even starts.”
That realization led to a strategic pivot from B2C to B2B2C a shift that transformed Payscribe into an enabler rather than just a service provider. Today, Payscribe’s mission is clear: to make launching and scaling fintechs easier, faster, and more affordable across Africa and beyond.
Simplifying the complex
Payscribe built its infrastructure around the needs of founders, startups, and small businesses – the kind of people who often have big ideas but limited resources. Its platform offers a suite of modular financial tools designed to remove the technical and regulatory friction that slows innovation.
Among its flagship products are:
Global Account: Create a USD, EUR,CAD accounts for your customer seamlessly
Bulk Payment: Transfer funds to multiple recipients in one click.
Bulk Bills Payment: Pay utilities, airtime, and internet data in over 50+ countries.
Stablecoin Settlement: Accept USDT or USDC from customers and get instantly settled in fiat.
Payment Collection: Accept payments through multiple channels, supported by six leading Nigerian banks.
Invoicing: Send detailed invoices and allow clients to pay bit by bit.
Payment Links: Share a payment link in your bio and watch your business grow.
API Integration: Build, embed, and launch financial products in days with a few lines of code – or none at all.
Each feature reflects the team’s core philosophy: that financial technology should not be complicated to build or access. As Sokoya puts it, “We want someone like Tomiwa – a founder, a freelancer, or a small business owner – to be able to embed payments and launch a financial product without worrying about compliance or infrastructure. We handle that complexity so they can focus on growth.”
Building With Intention, Not Hype
In an era where startups often rush to launch features for attention, Payscribe stands out for its deliberate approach. Sokoya emphasizes that every product on the platform goes through a process of research, feedback, and iteration.
“Payscribe does not just go about launching random products,” he says. “Each one is carefully selected and researched before launch. Feedback from our partners and users shapes our decisions.”
This approach has built trust among users across industries from logistics and e-commerce startups to hospitality businesses, freelancers, and fintech builders. With over 900 businesses now relying on its infrastructure, Payscribe is quietly becoming the go-to payment backbone for many digital ventures across Africa.
Expanding horizons: Cross-border and beyond
Payscribe isn’t stopping at payments within Nigeria. Its next big step is to empower African and third-world entrepreneurs to receive and send money globally.
The company is preparing to launch virtual USD and GBP accounts, a feature that will allow users to transact directly with international clients and partners without the traditional barriers of currency conversion or banking restrictions.
For Sokoya, this isn’t just about convenience it’s about inclusion.
“We want to make it possible for Africans and others in emerging markets to receive and send payments directly to and from foreign countries,” he explains. “It’s about giving them the same financial freedom the rest of the world enjoys.”
The future of fintech enablement in Africa
Payscribe’s story is a reminder that innovation doesn’t always have to be loud or flashy.Sometimes, the most transformative impact comes from platforms that empower others to build.
As the fintech ecosystem in Africa continues to grow, platforms like Payscribe are emerging as the connective tissue quietly powering everything from digital banks to online marketplaces and logistics startups.
With its six partner banks, expanding reach across multiple African countries, and a clear roadmap for global growth, Payscribe is positioning itself not just as a fintech brand, but as an enabler of fintech dreams.
And in Sokoya’s words, “The goal is simple to make launching a fintech business simple, to let anyone embed financial services and scale, with or without a single line of code.”
Final thoughts
Payscribe’s journey from a bootstrapped automation project to a continent-spanning fintech infrastructure captures the spirit of African innovation born from necessity, refined through purpose, and scaled through community.
It’s not just helping businesses collect payments; it’s helping founders build the future of fintech, one API at a time.
Tech giant Google today marked the 20th anniversary of Google Maps, a service that has helped over 2 billion monthly users explore and navigate the world.
In a statement on Thursday, February 6, the company noted that Google Maps has become an essential tool that empowers users to confidently navigate, wherever their journey takes them.
“Over the past two decades, it’s become an essential tool for more than 2 billion monthly users, providing both comprehensive information and a vibrant community for sharing knowledge.
“Google Maps isn’t simply a map; it’s a dynamic platform shaping users’ understanding of the world. Its rich and up-to-date information empowers users to confidently navigate, wherever their journey takes them.
“Its evolution has brought a wealth of features to enhance every journey. Need a little inspiration? Ask Maps, powered by Gemini, for curated ideas on where to go. Travelling? The “Directory” tab helps you explore what’s available in airports.
“Want to get your bearings quickly? Augmented reality allows you to understand an area at a glance. Even everyday tasks, like finding the cheapest petrol station nearby, are made easier with Google Maps,” the company stated.
In Nigeria, Google Maps has been instrumental in helping people discover new places and navigate with confidence.
To mark this 20th anniversary, Google also unveiled the top reviewed places in Nigeria, showcasing the locations that have captured the hearts of Nigerian users.
According to Taiwo Kola-Ogunlade, Communications and Public Affairs Manager, Google West Africa, “Google Maps has evolved from a basic mapping tool to a dynamic platform that helps people explore, navigate, and discover new experiences.
The top reviewed locations in Nigeria highlight the places that have captured the interest and attention of our users.”
These lists offer fascinating insights into popular choices for restaurants, cafes, visitor attractions, parks, and museums across the country.
Here is a list of most searched places in Nigeria:
If your business sells products, an inventory management system makes sense. While some companies handle inventory management manually, doing so can become unwieldy over time as businesses scale upwards.
According toZion Market Research, the worldwide inventory management software segment was worth $2.58 billion in 2023 and could reach $7.69 billion by 2032. That works out to a 12.9% compound annual growth rate from 2024 to 2032.
The research firm adds that inventory management applications are useful for tracking levels, sales, orders, and deliveries of products. Businesses that invest in such tools want help to easily manage, track, and control inventory in real-time, whether the products are onsite, offsite, or a combination of both. The right inventory management system can be a game-changer.
You might wonder whether an inventory management application is right for your business.
Consider these reasons why it makes sense to invest in one sooner rather than later.
1. Better Accuracy
A key reason to invest in an inventory management application is improved accuracy. Human error in inventory management can cause a lot of trouble. Don’t assume that customers will accept inefficiencies brought on by human error. If people discover that products they want aren’t in stock, they may look elsewhere. Human error is estimated to be behind80% to 90% of mishaps in various sectors. That’s an alarming figure. However, you can reduce human error by automating inventory management; accuracy will translate to happier customers.
2. Real-Time Inventory Tracking
An inventory tracking solution will also affordreal-time inventory tracking. When your employees have real-time visibility into inventory levels at various locations, it’ll be easier to make solid strategic decisions.
3. Better Order Fulfillment
Yet another reason inventory management software is a good business move is that it will facilitate better order fulfillment. You can ensure that in-demand products are available for customers. Better order accuracy and delivery timelines will benefit your customers and your business.
4. Higher Customer Satisfaction
If you offer a less-than-desirable buying experience, customers will let others know. One source says that95% of customers who have a negative experience with a business will share their discontent with others. Meanwhile, around three in 10 customers will consider finding a rival company after a single negative experience.
Few things can be as frustrating to customers as initiating an order and finding out the product isn’t in stock. Again, some customers will, instead of waiting for your business to restock, look elsewhere for what they need. The internet offers too many options for people who want what they want now rather than later.
5. Increased Efficiency
When you have a good inventory management system, your workers won’t have to work harder. They’ll work smarter. The solution will streamline responsibilities like stock tracking, shipment tracking, and reordering. When employees are more efficient, they’ll be more productive.
6. Multi-Location Management
If you need to stay on top of inventory levels at multiple locations, an inventory management system is a must. Manually tracking inventory levels across numerous locations is a disaster waiting to happen since it’ll be next to impossible to achieve this objective.
An inventory management system will be a game-changer since it’ll simplify tracking inventories across warehouses, distribution centers, and other locations.
7. More Scalability
Scalability is essential when buying solutions for your company. A good inventory management solution will grow to accommodate your company. So, it’ll scale up or down depending on inventory and complexity issues.
If your business sells products, an inventory management system is a must-have rather than a nice-to-have. It’s the sort of solution that’ll help your company operate more efficiently and productively.
