Visionary entrepreneur, multi-sectoral leader, and tireless advocate for sustainable development, Oluwaseun Dania has been named one of the Top 50 Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) in the Philanthropy & Social Impact category.

This prestigious global recognition, organised in support of the United Nations’ International Decade for People of African Descent, celebrates individuals creating meaningful change through purpose-driven leadership.

Dania, the CEO of Crello, a cross-border B2B fintech platform, and Alpha-Geek Technologies, a digital innovation firm, is a serial entrepreneur whose impact spans finance, technology, agriculture, energy, and philanthropy. His inclusion in the 2025 MIPAD honours list is a resounding acknowledgement of his lifelong dedication to empowering communities, advancing sustainability, and leveraging innovation for good.

From Tech to Soil: A Holistic Vision for Impact

Dania’s work in agriculture, through his venture Westnova Farms, focuses on transforming local farming ecosystems using innovative agricultural practices that support food security, economic growth, and environmental conservation. His dedication to green innovation and regenerative agriculture reflects his belief in building future-proof solutions from the ground up.

In the oil and gas/energy sector, Dania is widely respected for his expertise in Health, Safety & Environment (HSE) and sustainable energy policy. He is a sought-after voice on issues surrounding energy transition, corporate responsibility, and green compliance frameworks, particularly across sub-Saharan Africa.

Tech-Driven Philanthropy That Transforms Lives

As founder of the Oluwaseun Dania International Foundation, he leads bold initiatives that impact lives across Nigeria; most notably, teaching children in remote communities to create NFTs through digital art, producing an award-winning film confronting the drug crisis, and building an eco-friendly school from recycled pet bottles to deliver free education.

“This honour from MIPAD goes beyond personal achievement; it reflects the power of a collective mission to uplift, inspire, and transform,” Dania stated. “Whether through fintech, agriculture, or sustainability, I believe that every innovation must answer a social need.”

Global Recognition, African Roots

Previously recognised by the Friendship Ambassadors Foundation and profiled in Marquis Who’s Who, Dania has become a leading force in Africa’s digital and social renaissance.

He holds over 30 certifications across cybersecurity, engineering, compliance, and enterprise architecture, and is a member of respected global institutions including the Forbes Business Council.

The 2025 MIPAD honorees will be celebrated during United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Week in New York City in September 2025, spotlighting global changemakers of African descent who are redefining leadership through equity, innovation, and action.

Galaxy Backbone (GBB), Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and shared services provider, joined other key government institutions at the 5th Public Service Innovation Competition Award Ceremony, organized by the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF).

The event, which held in Abuja, celebrated groundbreaking ideas from Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) that are reimagining public service delivery through innovation.

The ceremony, which attracted notable dignitaries including the Chief Host herself, The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON mni. Others include, former Heads of Service, Dame Amal Pepple and Mr. Danladi Kifasi, and the Chairman of the House Committee on Public Service, Hon. Sani Bala, showcased the vibrancy and ingenuity of Nigeria’s Civil Servants.

Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the MD/CEO of Galaxy Backbone, Mr. Sani Ibrahim, Executive Director, Finance & Corporate Services, underscored the importance of inter-agency collaboration, digital literacy, and innovative thinking as pillars for national development.

He emphasized that GBB remains deeply committed to supporting initiatives like the Innovation Competition, which foster a culture of creativity, problem-solving, and transformation across the public sector.

“Innovation is no longer a luxury — it is essential to building a responsive, efficient, and digitally enabled government. At Galaxy Backbone, we are proud to align with this vision through our Integrated Digital Transformation Strategy (IDTS), which drives digital infrastructure, innovation, data security, and capacity building across MDAs,” he stated.

The 2025 edition of the competition saw an outstanding 155 entries, with 132 individuals pitching innovative ideas and 66 thematic teams presenting implementable solutions designed to enhance service delivery and governance.

Themed around streamlining bureaucratic processes, succession planning, employee welfare, and change management, this year’s event reaffirmed the role of innovation in shaping a future-ready public service.

Galaxy Backbone recognizes the critical role of digital transformation in empowering civil servants to create lasting impact. By supporting platforms such as the Public Service Innovation Competition, GBB reinforces its commitment to equipping the public sector with the tools, skills, and digital infrastructure necessary for Nigeria’s progress.

As part of this commitment, GBB will also be providing mentorship for all the winners of the innovation challenge, helping them refine their ideas, scale implementation, and drive sustainable transformation across the public service.

As the country advances on its journey toward e-governance and efficient service delivery, GBB continues to stand as a strategic partner in building a connected, innovative, and digitally skilled public service.

Not long ago, cash was dominant in Africa, but digital payments are now rapidly gaining traction.

From Lagos to Kenya and the US, businesses are recognising that embracing digital methods is essential for growth.

A Mastercard-commissioned report forecasts Africa’s digital payments market will reach $1.5 trillion by 2030, fueled by increased mobile phone usage and e-commerce. While cash is still common, mobile money is on the rise.

Zabira is simplifying this transition for SMEs, freelancers, and online merchants. In August 2019, the company launched Zabira to innovate Nigeria’s cashless transaction market, offering services like crypto trading and utility payments.

The Zabira app supports four major fiat currencies—USD, NGN, GHC, and KES, making cross-border transactions seamless. It also provides access to over 20 cryptocurrencies, giving users flexibility and freedom in managing their digital finances.

For small business owners looking to adopt digital payments, here are five easy tips to get started.

1. Choose a Platform That Does It All

Choose a digital payment platform like Zabira that offers multiple services in one app, including cryptocurrency trading, utility bill payments, and fiat transactions, to manage your financial life seamlessly.

2. Integrate Crypto Payments Early

Africa is rapidly growing as a crypto market. Zabira allows businesses to accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and USDT, facilitating real-time trading of crypto assets. This gives businesses a competitive advantage in international commerce, particularly with diasporan clients.

3. Get Paid Instantly, No delay

Waiting three to five business days for payment to clear can disrupt cash flow. Zabira offers instant fiat payments through a robust blockchain system, allowing businesses to move money quickly, pay suppliers faster, and avoid telling customers to “wait till Monday.”

4. Opt for a user-friendly app

Zabira is incredibly easy to use, with no confusing menus or hidden steps. Users can download the app on Android and on iOS.

5. Offer More Than Just Products

Zabira offers more than money transfers; users can top up airtime and data, pay cable bills, and fund betting wallets within the app. Businesses can learn to add value beyond just selling products.