Jide Awe

Jide Awe is a recognized leader in digital transformation, telecommunications, and innovation policy, with a longstanding commitment to advancing technology ecosystems in Africa and beyond. In 2024, he was honoured as Nigeria’s Tech Mentor of the Year for his impactful contributions to mentoring and skill development in the technology sector. As an entrepreneur and public policy consultant with expertise in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI), Jide has guided young professionals and organizations, fostering skill development and innovation through platforms that promote collaboration among startups, established enterprises, and policymakers. He has also championed digital inclusion, helping individuals and organizations enhance competitiveness, productivity, and social impact. Jide’s professional journey spans organizations like LM Ericsson, United Bank for Africa, Ecobank, and CTB, where he held roles ranging from Communications Engineer to ICT Manager. Leveraging this wealth of experience, he founded Jidaw Systems, a pioneer in computer education, ICT training, and consulting in Nigeria. Through Jidaw.com, one of Nigeria's earliest online content platforms, Jide has driven knowledge-sharing and innovation in the ICT sector. He was among the first certified by the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa’s (UNECA) African Institute for Economic Development and Planning in Accelerating the Implementation of the African Union’s Science, Technology, and Innovation Strategy for Africa (STISA-2024). Jide has contributed to ICT policy development with institutions such as the Nigeria Data Protection Commission (NDPC), the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), and UNECA. Notably, he developed Nigeria’s first Standard Certification Program for Data Protection Officers to strengthen local expertise in privacy and security.