News
Leo Stan Ekeh: Thoughts on a digital militant @ 64
By Ray Umukoro
Today, February 22, he turns 64. Trust him, there shall be no buntings, no confetti to celebrate the eventful life of Leo Stan Ekeh, who proved that in spite of her limitations, Nigeria still has a semblance of a free market economy driven by competence and capacity.
Leo Stan Ekeh
He has over the years demonstrated that in the midst of our wonky system complete with cronyism, nepotism and ethno-religious sentiments, there is still a place for hard work; there is still a reward system that recognizes merit above mediocrity.
For about three decades, Ekeh built a business empire from the scratch, from a flat in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, which also served as his home.
He built a conglomerate from practically nothing except his raw audacity, integrity and his ability to take the risk even when nobody was willing to go with him.
It’s an uncommon whiff of self-belief that would make a fresh university graduate of top universities in India, Ireland and England to hop into the uncertain train of entrepreneurship when he could easily have walked into a regular white-collar job. And he did that in a sub-sector where many early birds had gone into extinction: Nigeria’s computer industry.
Ekeh typifies the Nigerian spirit of derring-do, gumption and chutzpah. In him, we see the life of an African child who broke all conventions, overawed stereotypes and literally rode the tail of a tiger to confound naysayers who claim Africans rarely triumph within the African soil.
After university education which coursed through India, Ireland and England, young Ekeh was intentional and deliberate about what he wanted to do.
He would not stay back in the UK to join the English hustle. He would return to his fatherland, Nigeria, not to knock the streets in search of job. No.
He would return to create job, create wealth and add value to the lives of others including people his age and even older persons.
He would return to introduce Nigerian youths to a brave new digital world of boundless opportunities. He would return to Nigeria to be his own boss, to create a future for the youths. And he did just that.
He’s the archetypal African child. Gifted in diverse ways, born into a family with a strong pedigree in entrepreneurship but he simply refused to walk in the shadows of his parents. He wanted to define his own path. Like Prometheus in Greek mythology, he was not only gifted with strong personal will, he’s endowed with boundless creative spirit; the rare ability to create solution, solve problems and predict the future by merely using the fundamentals of the present.
When he pioneered desktop publishing in Nigeria, he was only filling a digital gap that existed in the nation’s publishing sector.
In the late 80s and early 90s, publishing in Nigeria was much about the clattering typewriter and the big burly compugraphic machine. Print quality was poor and dingy. Worst of it all, the processes were slow and tacky.
It was a huge technology challenge but none of the existing technology companies could configure a solution for the media.
Ekeh, a freewheeling street-smart and book-wise man in his 30s did. He became the instant interface between Apple Macintosh and Nigerian media including book publishers and advertising agencies. The result of that liaison was the birthing of ready-friendly publications.
In the vast dynamic field of technology, the spirit of Prometheus is writ large among a handful of entrepreneurs.
What with the story of the late Steve Jobs, the man whose innovations gave to mankind another breath of fresh air in the sphere of artificial intelligence. He handed to humanity a different kind of machine.
Then, there was Bill Gates, the Knight of Microsoft; Larry Elisson of Oracle, Reed Hasting of Netflix and Jack Dorsey and his co-founders of Twitter, just to name a few.
These men did not re-invent the wheel. They all rode on the back of the early inventors of the computer and the internet to change for good the way the world transact its many businesses.
These rare Americans have succeeded in making a huge point: America is the home of ICT and the birthplace of ICT entrepreneurs.
So, it was more of bucking the trend when in later years, Asians, particularly Indians and now South Koreans, began to drive their feet into the global ICT matrix.
Going by ICT folklore, India is not an inventor but it is today the outsourcing capital of the world; developer of key software used all around the world.
Out of Africa, one man has over time demonstrated that digital entrepreneurship is not the exclusive preserve of the white man. Leo Stan has proven in clear, unambiguous terms that Nigerians and indeed Africans are also endowed with uncommon ICT entrepreneurial skills.
Born on February 22, 1958 in Ubomiri, Mbaitoli Local Government, Imo State, Ekeh, a devout Catholic, former mass servant and chorister has taken the digital world by storm, building one of the biggest ICT conglomerates out of Africa from a modest desktop publishing outpost or what is commonly called ‘Business Centre’ in local parlance. Today, he straddles a Group with interests extending from ICT to online retail, to property with offices in Africa, United Arab Emirates (Dubai), Europe and Asia.
A moment with Leo Stan leaves you with the clear impression that you are before a rebel, an iconoclast in every positive sense. He wants to change the world around him.
He stirs himself in thought and in deeds. The former Governor of Edo State, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, must have noticed the restiveness in Ekeh that he christened him a ‘Digital Militant’.
He pursues matters of digitization of Nigeria, nay Africa with a militant spirit: aggressive and unrelenting.
He wants all graduates out of Nigerian schools to be computer-savvy. He desires to see governance run on e-platform. It’s just his nature to see things work efficiently. And he sees technology as the only enabler for efficiency.
In life, whether in business or governance, you have to be a rebel to make a change. Lee Kuan Yew, author of ‘From Third World to First’ and father of modern Singapore acknowledged himself as a rebel who roused the people to pull Singapore out of the hatred they bore against the Japanese for their occupation of Singapore (1942-1945) and from the pains of British colonial rule.
Steve Jobs was to the world what Yew was to the political economy of Singapore and Ekeh to the African ICT industry.
It is the story of positive rebellion. And for his unrelenting commitment to deepening and widening the horizon of ICT in Africa, Leo Stan has won many hearts, accolades, awards and honours.
He is the proud recipient of over 85 awards, by far the most decorated entrepreneur in the nation’s ICT ecosystem.
They include the National Productivity Order of Merit (NPOM) award by President Muhammadu Buhari, Icon of Hope Award by President Olusegun Obasanjo on October 1 , 2002 for his exemplary digital vision and as a role model for modern Nigeria; over six Doctor of Science Degrees(Honoris Causa) from Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO), University of Jos, Federal University of Agriculture, Markudi (FUAM), Imo State University (IMSU), among other citadels of learning.
Ekeh is a prophet with honour even among his people. He is a worthy Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) for his transcendental digital entrepreneurship; a Fellow of Nigeria Computer Society and a Distinguished Fellow of the Nigeria Law School. Indeed, his trophy cabinet is a rich mix of global and international awards.
As he marks his birthday today, one can only harvest a bouquet of flowers and place it on the feet of a true African child who has changed the sordid stereotype of Africans being a people unable to pull themselves out of the umbra of darkness.
He is indeed a role model and a beacon of hope for the African youth.
- Umukoro writes from Lagos
Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) and Miva Open University, Abuja, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly promote digital technology and academic excellence in computer science and innovation.
Mr. David Daser, president/CEO, DBI, and Professor Tayo Arulogun, vice chancellor, Miva Open University.
DBI, a Federal Government-owned ICT training institute with headquarters in Abuja and campuses across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones, hosted the signing ceremony at its headquarters.
The MoU marks a significant step in formalizing and strengthening the existing relationship between the two institutions.
Signing on behalf of their institutions were
Speaking during the event, Mr. Daser praised Professor Arulogun’s leadership and commitment to academic development, which he said made the partnership possible. He emphasized that unlike many MoUs that remain inactive, this collaboration is set to deliver tangible results.
“We value this partnership and are confident it will meaningfully contribute to Nigeria’s education sector. DBI is fully prepared to implement the agreement and drive an impact across our campuses in Enugu, Abuja, Kano, Lagos, Asaba, and Yola,” Daser said.
He added that the collaboration would strengthen DBI’s National Innovation Diploma (NID) program and other initiatives through shared resources and new opportunities.
Professor Arulogun, in his remarks, highlighted the need for greater collaboration among Nigerian universities, criticizing the prevalent “do-it-alone syndrome.”
“Many institutions prefer to operate in silos, but collaboration is key. Pooling resources and working together will enhance capacity and academic output,” he stated. “With this partnership, we are ready to hit the ground running from student exchange to joint innovation projects like hackathons.”
He noted that hackathons provide platforms for discovering hidden talents and fostering innovation, and Miva is eager to integrate such activities into its academic programs.
Mr. Emeka Nzeih, head of Learning and Development, DBI, outlined the partnership’s key focus areas: student internships, real-world project collaborations, joint research in fields like AI, robotics, and cybersecurity, and shared access to DBI’s ICT labs and equipment for Miva’s students and faculty.
According to Nzeih, the initiative aims to enhance practical learning, foster innovation, and build capacity through collaborative training, research, and mentorship.
The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering trust and voluntary tax compliance among small businesses, startups, and informal sector operators across the country.
This pledge comes ahead of the 2025 edition of its flagship outreach programme, the Tax Clinic, an initiative aimed at deepening tax education and strengthening compliance across Nigeria’s economic sectors.
Speaking in anticipation of the event, the Executive Chairman of FIRS, Dr Zacch Adedeji, emphasised that the clinic forms part of broader efforts to promote transparency, accountability, and inclusion in the tax system.
“The clinic reflects our commitment to promoting a culture of voluntary compliance by bringing tax education closer to the people. It is a critical step in strengthening trust, transparency, and inclusion in the tax system,” Dr Adedeji stated.
He noted the importance of expanding the country’s tax base and ensuring that citizens and business operators are empowered to fulfil their civic obligations.
“This clinic is more than an event; it’s a movement to ensure every Nigerian understands their role in nation-building through voluntary tax compliance,” he added.
Organised by the FIRS Emerging Taxpayers’ Group (ETG), the two-day event will feature expert-led sessions, panel discussions, interactive service desks, and live Q&A forums on issues such as tax filing, business registration, and dispute resolution.
Attendees will also have access to representatives from key institutions, including the Lagos State Internal Revenue Service (LIRS), Joint Tax Board (JTB), Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Tax Appeal Tribunal (TAT), National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), and Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission (NIPC).
Several professional bodies will also participate, including the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), Association of National Accountants of Nigeria (ANAN), Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), and Nigerian Medical Association (NMA).
In addition to tax advisory services, the NMA will provide free basic medical screenings at the event. The first 300 participants to register physically will also receive branded gifts.
The clinic is open to business owners, self-employed individuals, trade groups, and professionals, with livestream options available for virtual participants.
With the theme ‘Tax Clinic for Tax Clarity’, the event is scheduled to take place on 15th and 16th July 2025 in Lagos.
FIRS says the initiative is central to its drive to boost revenue generation, integrate the informal economy, and streamline Nigeria’s tax architecture in line with its economic development agenda.
The Federal Government has commissioned the fully refurbished and restored Kano Digital Industrial Park, reaffirming its commitment to inclusive digital growth, youth empowerment, and strong private sector collaboration.
The facility, which suffered significant damage during the August 2024 protests, has now been fully restored through a generous intervention by IHS Nigeria.
The commissioning ceremony, which took place on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, was led by the President of Nigeria, ably represented by the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
The event was graced by several dignitaries, including the Deputy Governor of Kano State (representing the Governor) Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo; the Emir of Kano, represented by His Highness, Jarman Kano, Amb. Ahmed Umar OON; the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission Dr Aminu Maida; the Minister of State for Youth Development; representatives from IHS Nigeria; and other senior government officials.
Delivering his opening remarks, the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, Dr. Aminu Maida, emphasized the strategic importance of the park and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to enabling Nigeria’s digital future.
“The recommissioning of the NCC Digital Industrial Park in Kano is a landmark moment in our journey to accelerate ICT innovation and empower the next generation of digital pioneers.
“This facility will serve as a catalyst for digital inclusion, economic transformation, and youth empowerment not just in Kano, but across the entire Northwest region. We remain committed to creating a thriving digital ecosystem where innovation can flourish and no one is left behind in Nigeria’s digital revolution.” He said.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Governor of Kano State, the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, reaffirmed the state’s digital ambition and expressed deep appreciation for the partnership that made the park’s restoration possible.
“This commissioning marks more than the unveiling of a refurbished structure, it represents Kano’s bold vision to lead Northern Nigeria’s digital transformation. “We are grateful to IHS Nigeria for their swift response and unwavering support following the vandalization of this facility. Their commitment goes beyond corporate responsibility, it reflects a shared vision for a digitally inclusive Nigeria. He said.
Also speaking at the commissioning ceremony, the Chief Operating Officer of IHS Nigeria, Kazeem Oladepo, who represented the CEO of IHS Nigeria, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to advancing Nigeria’s digital future.
“Our decision to sponsor the refurbishment of the Kano Digital Park is rooted in our commitment to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy and empowering young Nigerians with the skills to thrive in the digital age,” he said.
“This partnership with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy is a clear demonstration of the power of public-private collaboration in addressing national challenges.
“We are proud to contribute to the 3MTT program and help restore this park as a hub of innovation and opportunity for the Kano community. Supporting initiatives like this and others such as the Ilorin Innovation Hub is how we aim to foster long-term digital growth, create jobs, and drive inclusive development across Nigeria.” He added.
Capping off the event, the Honourable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, highlighted the significance of public-private collaboration in shaping Nigeria’s digital future.
“The recommissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when public and private sector actors unite behind a shared vision. This facility is more than just infrastructure, it is a beacon of innovation, resilience, and opportunity for Northern Nigeria.
“IHS Nigeria’s swift intervention following the vandalism of this park reflects true partnership and corporate citizenship. Together, we are laying the foundation for a future where young Nigerians, especially those in underserved communities, have the tools and training to thrive in a digital economy.” He highlighted.
The Kano Digital Industrial Park forms a key part of the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) initiative, a flagship government program aimed at equipping Nigerians with globally competitive digital skills.
The renovation includes fully equipped training labs, power and connectivity infrastructure, upgraded learning spaces, and restored digital equipment to support thousands of learners across Northern Nigeria.
The commissioning of the Kano Digital Industrial Park comes just weeks after Ilorin Innovation Hub, the largest innovation hub of its kind in West Africa, which is also sponsored by IHS Nigeria, kicked off its incubation and acceleration programs. These interventions highlight IHS Nigeria’s continued commitment to fostering innovation, creating jobs, and driving the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
By bringing the Kano Digital Industrial Park back on stream, IHS is reinforcing its pledge to support impactful initiatives at both the federal and sub-national levels, particularly those that provide opportunities for young Nigerians, who represent the future of the nation.
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