Past Speakers

Bomkam Ali Wuyep is an accomplished financial expert with B.Sc. and M.Sc. in Accounting from the University of Jos and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Accounting and Finance. He is a Fellow of FCIA, ANAN, CIBN, and a member of ICMC, reflecting his strong professional standing. He has served as Director of Administration and Finance at PLASMIDA and is currently the DG of Plateau State Microfinance Development Agency. He also coordinates NG-CARES Result Area III in Plateau State, contributes to the MSME Council, and actively engages in professional development globally.

Bruce Lucas, a tech solutions architect with the core focus of turning challenges into tech success stories! A passionate coach/mentor for aspiring startup founders, business owners, entrepreneurs, and tech enthusiasts, He thrives in the fast-paced world of startups, where innovation meets real-world challenges. He's the tech pastor always at the heart of tech-driven ecosystems across Africa, pushing boundaries and creating lasting impact. He is the CEO, Olotu Square Tech Innovation Hub, CEO, Tier-1 Server Admin of Leanna Hosting, A Google Lead Organizer, GDG SSA and a pan-Niger Delta Tech Ecosystem Champion.

Nnamdi Ibe is an IT consultant, software engineer, and entrepreneur with 15+ years of experience delivering scalable, enterprise-grade technology solutions. He is CEO of Gnorizon Consults, Founder of Axia Technology & Innovation Hub, and CEO of TransportR Mobility Limited. He has led major projects in systems architecture, cloud computing, enterprise applications, and smart mobility solutions. Through Axia Hub, he mentors early-stage founders in AI, blockchain, IoT, and other emerging technologies. With a B.Sc. in Computer Science and multiple certifications, he is a sought-after speaker committed to empowering Africa's next generation of innovators.

Bankole Oloruntoba is the CEO of the Nigeria Climate Innovation Center (NCIC), a key player in promoting Nigeria's green economy, having incubated over 100 green ventures. He is also the Honorary Consul to Finland in Lagos and Founder of the Network of Incubators and Innovators in Nigeria (NINe). Bankole has vast expertise in entrepreneurship development, innovation management, and business strategy. He serves on multiple advisory boards and has contributed significantly to the digital and climate-focused startup ecosystem in West Africa.

Dominic Datong is a technology leader and public administrator serving as the Director General of the Plateau Information and Communication Technology Development Agency (PICTDA). With his leadership, PICTDA has been driving digital transformation initiatives across Plateau State, implementing e-governance solutions, and fostering tech talent development in the region.

Andrew Agbo Abu is a seasoned technology strategist, innovation champion, and founder of Young Innovators of Nigeria (YIN). With over a decade of leadership in digital transformation, policy advocacy, and startup ecosystems, he has steered YIN to become one of Nigeria's most influential youth led tech platforms and pioneer leader in the Nigeria startup ecosystem. Andrew also leads Central Soft Support Services (CS3) and Imperium Industries, where he drives innovation in areas like data governance, product development, and defense technologies. Active in promoting AI, cybersecurity, and STEM education, he recently led engagements at NASENI's Innovation Hub and convened high level discussions under TED 2025.

Tasiu Kwaplong, is a seasoned software developer and tech ecosystem builder. With over 7 years of experience in software development, Tasiu has delivered custom tech solutions for a wide range of organizations from Punch Nigeria Ltd, the Nasarawa State Government, and tertiary institutions, to international bodies. His deep understanding of real-world tech application has positioned him as a leading figure in Northern Nigeria's growing digital space. Currently, Tasiu serves as the Hub Manager at O2 Innovations Lab and leads the Google Developer Group (GDG) Lafia, where he actively mentors emerging developers and builds inclusive spaces for tech collaboration and innovation.

Daser David is a technology executive and educator currently serving as the President of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI). With strong background in software engineering, policy design and entrepreneurship, he has been instrumental in advancing digital skills development and ICT education across Nigeria. Under his leadership, DBI has expanded its training programs and partnerships to address the growing demand for digital talents in the country.

Moses Amama is a Senior Product Designer and UI Developer at thoughtbot, a global software design and development agency with teams across the U.S., Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. He is also the Founder & CEO of Futurefeat, a makerspace in Nigeria that equips children and teens with hands-on skills in design, coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, and media, and Startup Lab, an incubator that helps founders build MVPs, test and validate ideas, and move toward securing pre-seed and seed-stage investments. Through his mentorship program Learning with Mo, he has invested over 20,000 minutes mentoring designers and has supported many aspiring and underserved designers by providing laptops, courses, and other resources to help them grow.

Nanle Philemon is a Nigerian entrepreneur and innovator, co-founder of ASAWAVE, and builder of AI, blockchain, and fintech solutions that empower businesses, creators, and learners across Africa

Parker Benson Majei is a Computer Science graduate from Olabisi Onabanjo University with extensive experience in ICT leadership, innovation, and strategic development. He currently serves as Director of Business Development, Innovation Platforms, and Partnerships at the Plateau State ICT Development Agency (PICTDA) and Head of Monitoring and Evaluation/Management Information Systems at the State Operations Coordinating Unit (SOCU). A Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA & CCNA Security) and STATA-proficient Data Analyst, Parker has also led ICT Equipment Management & Help Desk Support Unit at PICTDA. He has played a key role in policy and governance, notably spearheading the domestication of the Nigeria Startup Bill, which is currently under consideration at the Plateau State House of Assembly. Parker is an active member of the Plateau State Technical Working Group on ICT, and served on the ICT Technical Steering Committee and currently serves as Public Relations Officer of the Nigeria Computer Society, Plateau State Chapter. He is a devoted husband and father, committed to leveraging technology and innovation for sustainable development.

Bashir Sheidu is a seasoned ecosystem builder, business consultant, and innovation leader dedicated to driving sustainable growth across Nigeria. He is the COO of nHub Nigeria, Chairman of the Network of Northern Incubators and Accelerators (NNIA), and the Founder of Think Hub and Yiino Technologies. With over a decade of experience, Bashir has trained and mentored more than 1,000 young people, unlocking access to millions in equity-free financing and building pathways for startups, MSMEs, and talents to thrive. His expertise spans digital transformation, startup incubation, ecosystem development, and agritech, and he has built strong partnerships with global organizations including Pinnacle, Good Company (Canada), Dubai World Trade Centre, The Possible Zone (USA), SBTS Group (Nigeria) and Digital Bridge Institute. Bashir is passionate about creating inclusive opportunities for youth and women in technology, advancing innovation-driven policies, and positioning Northern Nigeria as a hub for talent, technology, and entrepreneurship.

Olusegun Oruame is a media entrepreneur, technology advocate, and investor with over two decades of shaping Africa’s technology and media landscapes. He founded IT Edge News.Africa (2004), a leading pan-African tech intelligence platform, and Baobab Africa Online (2009), focused on development and innovation. His journalistic excellence earned him the Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) in 2006 and the GKP/Panos Fellowship Award in 2005 for works on the Information Society. Beyond media, he has co-founded and invested in several tech ventures while contributing to public sector initiatives, including GITEX NIGERIA, NITDA’s first Software Testing Centre (2014). He is currently advancing nationwide job creation through BPO Outsourcing Centres via SBTS Technologies and Digital Bridge Institute, cementing his continuous interest in Africa’s digital economy.

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.

Yusuf Ahmed is the Founder/COO at Thrive Media Africa, a digital marketing agency focused on helping businesses reach more people and earn more revenue using digital marketing tools and strategies. Yusuf was a trainer with Konverge Media under the Google Digital Skills for Africa project, where he trained over 10,100 people across Nigeria in three years. He is also a Web Designer with over 6 years of experience and has built over 40 websites for individuals, brands, and private, government, and international organizations. He has consulted for the Plateau State State Government, Plateau State Ministry of Health, Plateau State Ministry of Works, Plateau State ICT Development Agency, nHub Foundation, nHub Nigeria, Startup Grind Jos, Autolady Engineering Ltd, AVM Energy Services, SkyHub Nigeria and a host of other organizations. Yusuf Ahmed is also a Business Mentor for Upskill Digital, where he mentors businesses in Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, and Kenya to tackle gaps in their knowledge and tailor the learning to meet their needs. Yusuf is passionate about helping businesses and individuals grow. He volunteered in the Plateau State COVID-19 Situation Room - a team tasked with keeping Plateau State Citizens informed about the COVID-19 Pandemic. Yusuf is also the Chapter Coordinator at (Startup Grind Jos) - Startup Grind is the world’s largest community of startups, founders, innovators, and creators, with a mission to give startups everywhere the education and opportunities they need to build, grow, and scale their companies.

Salamatu Ceesay is a Digital Marketing Trainer, Community Leader, and Advocate for Digital Inclusion with over four years of experience equipping individuals and businesses with the digital skills needed to thrive in today’s economy. She has a proven track record of designing and delivering impactful training programs to diverse audiences, including youths, women, girls, MSMEs, persons with disabilities (PWDs) and underserved communities. Her core focus is helping Women, Youths and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) leverage digital tools such as social media platforms, content creation applications, digital marketing strategies, and online collaboration tools to improve visibility, attract customers and scale their businesses sustainably. Salamatu has facilitated training sessions across initiatives such as the World Bank–supported Digital Gateway Training (IDEAS Project), nHUB, DAFIM, PlaceHer, SunnahTech Lab, DASER Fellowship Program, Microsoft Community Events, Nigerians in Diaspora Organisation and Zumunta Association (USA), among others. As the Community Lead of PlaceHer and an active member of the Microsoft Community in Jos, she combines technical expertise with mentorship, simplifying complex topics andmaking them practical for business owners. Her work demonstrates how digital skills and tools can transform small businesses, create opportunities, and strengthen communities.

Nana Theresa Timothy is media and communication professional with a passion for technology storytelling. As a tech event and news reporter for ITedgenews, Nana cover innovation, industry trends, and the people shaping the future of technology. Alongside reporting, Nana design engaging user experiences and visuals as a UI/UX and graphic designer, blending creativity with communication to craft impactful digital narratives.

Murtala Muhammad Abdullahi is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Smartweb Nigeria Limited, the web-hosting provider he established in 2004. He serves as Vice President of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) and has been elected to the association’s 5th through 9th Executive Boards. Within NiRA, he has led and contributed to key committees—including the Domain Name Policy and Technical committees—advancing .ng adoption and strengthening Nigeria’s internet ecosystem. His work blends hands-on technical leadership with industry advocacy to make a reliable, affordable online presence accessible to businesses and individuals.

Theophilus Maimako is an innovator, lawyer, agripreneur, and lecturer at the University of Jos. He is a Fellow of the African Union Fellowship (Enterprise African Union) and co-founder of Green Eden Farms Ltd, where he leads operations and innovation in climate-smart agriculture. Passionate about creating market access for rural farmers, he is driving transformative solutions that improve food security and resilience. His work and innovations have earned international recognition, partnerships, and support from institutions such as the African Development Bank, African Union, International Trade Centre, Heifer International, Flour Mills of Nigeria, Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria, and PREO (funded by the IKEA Foundation and UK aid, delivered by Carbon Trust and Mercy Corps Energy 4 Impact) amongst others.

Stephanie Meltus is a purpose-driven sustainability advocate, innovator, and Doctor of Pharmacy student whose leadership journey began in 2019 with a certification from Junior Achievers Nigeria. That same year, she represented her school as an orator at the NASCO Decompee interschool competition, marking the start of a path defined by excellence and impact. In 2021, she served as the University of Jos Campus Ambassador for OneRx, earning the Ambassador of the Year award. By 2022, she became the youngest participant in The Next Economy training cohort in Jos. Her leadership expanded globally through roles in AIESEC Nigeria as Customer Experience Manager and later in AIESEC Liberia, deepening her commitment to youth empowerment and international collaboration. In 2024, Stephanie was selected as a Millennium Fellow, further amplifying her voice in sustainability and social innovation. She holds certifications from respected institutions such as Butterfly Works, INCO Academy, and ALX, and in 2025, she was proudly named a Ban Ki-moon Agri Champion, recognizing her outstanding work in advancing sustainable agriculture and food systems. As the Country Director of Smartel Agritech, Stephanie is pioneering technology-driven solutions rooted in circular economy principles to equip smallholder farmers for climate resilience and food security. Through it all, she remains grounded in her academic journey as a Doctor of Pharmacy student, committed to inspiring a generation that builds boldly for people and planet.

Manji is a development specialist, Consultant and Senior trainer who currently serves as Chief Technical Adviser on Development Partnerships, Strategic Linkages and Diaspora engagements to the Plateau State Governor. Manji is Plateau State’s Point of Contact for the Open Government Partnership programme, where he coordinates the government’s effort towards deepening transparency, accountability and responsiveness to Citizens demands. Prior to this role, he previously served as Deputy Project Coordinator for Component 1 of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria(EU- SDGN) programme as well as Deputy Project Coordinator, for the EU funded Project in Support to Mitigation and Prevention of Electoral Conflicts in Kenya(Pro Peace Kenya project).Manji also recently served as Special Assistant to the Chief Observer and Deputy Chief Observer of the European Union Election Observation Mission to Nigeria 2023. Manji is also Director, West Africa at Lead beyond, a social impact organisation that seeks to democratise leader development. He is a Political Party Administration and Management Expert with The Kukah Centre where he supports in the design and implementation of the EU Political Parties programme within the EU Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria(EU - SDGN) phase 2 programme.In his capacity, he coordinates the design of programmes and actions that will enhance political party administration and management in Nigeria. He also served as a Senior Advisor, Elections for ElectHER, a social innovation organisation that is advancing the inclusion of women in politics and public life by addressing the under representation of women, by democratising politics for women across in africa. Within his roles in Kenya and Nigeria, he was responsible for managing stakeholder relations, engagements with key diplomatic and national institutions including within the Donor Technical Coordination framework, a convening of USAID, UKAID, EU, UNDP and all Embassies and Missions as well as managing interactions / planning with the beneficiaries as well as Executive and Judiciary arms of government, leading Civil Society Organisations, thereby indicating a high level of trust and reliability on his competence to represent such important institutions. Manji has requisite skillsets and competences possessed over time working in various capacities in public administration, promotion of behavioural and social change, democratic governance development on thematic issues including electoral administration, public policy advancement, electoral and constitutional reforms, political parties’ development and electoral systems development.Furthermore, he facilitates key actions that promote human rights, Civil Society engagements, curbing irregular migration and addressing the refugee crises in Nigeria, especially through trainings, media and community - driven discussions, debates, as well as social accountability platforms also geared towards promotion of inclusion of Women, Youth and children in processes.In his roles, he has extensively collaborated with several international and national partners to develop and implement high impact interventions.

Wapnen is a software engineer and product strategist passionate about building digital solutions that simplify complex systems. He has led and contributed to projects spanning fintech, education, and government technology infrastructure. Beyond engineering, Wapnen is deeply interested in leveraging technology for financial inclusion and sustainable innovation across Africa.

Seasoned A.I strategist with a focus on educational innovation. Expert in driving tech adoption through clear communication and targeted training. Committed to elevating education by making A.I accessible and impactful.

Hauwa Anita Mankilik is a seasoned development professional with extensive experience in private sector development, business enabling environment reforms and MSME development. She started building her career as a banker with GTBank in 2006 and went on to join the SEDIN Programme of GiZ in 2016. She has played a pivotal role in supporting the Plateau State Government in formulating and implementing key economic policies, including the MSME and Agricultural Policies. A certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and a graduate of Glasgow Caledonian University with a Master’s in International Project Management, Hauwa is passionate about development work, especially on sustainable economic development . She brings strong leadership, strategic thinking, and a deep commitment to creating lasting impact.

Sam Adebayo is an Executive coach who empowers startup founders, leaders, and their teams to achieve massive goals. As an entrepreneur and engaging speaker, he helps organizations forge crucial alignment, maximize performance, and build resilient, goal-focused cultures for sustainable success.

Godsent Agundu is a technology executive and innovation strategist dedicated to advancing digital transformation across Africa. As Chief Technology Officer at Plugd Solutions, he leads the development of scalable digital systems that drive transparency, efficiency, and inclusion across public and private sectors. His work focuses on leveraging technology to modernise governance, empower businesses, and create sustainable digital ecosystems that support national development goals.

Michael Okpotu Onoja is the Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Ayema Networks, Nigeria’s homegrown social commerce platform serving over *100,000 active users. A **Microsoft Certified DevOps Engineer Expert* and *Azure Developer Associate, Michael has led Ayema’s technical growth from zero to six-figure users while maintaining **99.2% uptime* on a lean infrastructure budget. He is passionate about building scalable, cost- efficient technology solutions for African markets, with expertise in DevOps, cloud optimization, and engineering leadership.Michael regularly shares his insights through * TechCabal, ** TechPoint, Dev.to, and the ** Microsoft Tech Community *, and his work includes several peer - reviewed research publications. As a speaker, Michael is known for delivering practical, experience - driven sessions on scalable engineering, DevOps culture, and building resilient products for emerging markets.