Nigeria, often dubbed the “Giant of Africa,” is not just known for its rich culture and diversity; it’s also emerging as a vibrant hub for startups and innovation.
With a tech ecosystem that’s rapidly expanding, Nigeria boasts a multitude of talented entrepreneurs who are transforming industries and paving the way for the country’s economic future.
Why Nigeria?
As we step into 2025, there’s never been a more exciting time to explore the dynamic landscape of Nigerian startups.
These founders are not just building businesses; they are solving real-world problems and inspiring a new generation of innovators.
From fintech and eCommerce to education and healthcare, they are pushing boundaries and redefining the entrepreneurial spirit.
Meet the Visionaries
Here are 10 startup founders to follow/watch in 2025. These visionaries are redefining the Nigerian startup landscape, and their stories are a testament to the country’s potential for innovation and growth.
1. Tobias Lütke, The Visionary Behind Shopify
Tobias Lütke, the dynamic founder of Shopify, is a testament to the power of passion and innovation.
More than 20 years ago, he set out with a bold dream: to revolutionize online sales by selling snowboards.
Driven by his love for snowboarding and technology, Tobi faced numerous challenges, from grappling with complex code to navigating the cumbersome processes of accepting credit card payments.
In 2004, while living in Ottawa, Tobi launched his online snowboard shop, Snowdevil. Frustrated by the clunky and overpriced ecommerce software available at the time, he took matters into his own hands.
Instead of merely selling snowboards, Tobi decided to create a better solution—his own e-commerce platform.
The response was overwhelming. Other online merchants, impressed by his groundbreaking software, clamored to license it for their own businesses.
Recognizing the immense potential of the software beyond snowboards, Tobi and his co-founder pivoted, officially launching Shopify in 2006.
Fast forward to today:
Shopify is a powerhouse in the e-commerce space, a publicly traded company boasting over 4,000 employees and revenue exceeding $1 billion.
Tobi Lütke didn’t just build a company; he transformed the way the world shops online.
Eyes on Tobias: e-Commerce development.
2. Omolara Sanni, co-Founder of Middleman
Omolara Sanni is a trailblazer in the Nigerian tech ecosystem, recognized for her pivotal role as Co-Founder of Middleman, a revolutionary platform that streamlines commerce and logistics in Africa.
With a background in computer science and a passion for solving real-world challenges, Omolara has dedicated her career to enhancing the efficiency of supply chains and empowering small businesses.
Her journey began with a vision: to bridge the gap between merchants and consumers in an increasingly digital marketplace.
Drawing on her expertise, she co-founded Middleman to tackle the complexities of logistics and payment systems, making it easier for entrepreneurs to thrive.
Under her leadership, Middleman has transformed into a vital player in the e-commerce landscape, connecting various stakeholders and simplifying transactions.
Omolara’s commitment to innovation is matched by her dedication to mentorship. She actively supports aspiring entrepreneurs, particularly women in tech, fostering a new generation of leaders.
As she continues to push boundaries and redefine commerce in Nigeria, Omolara Sanni stands out as a powerful force driving the future of technology and entrepreneurship in Africa.
Omolara is the co-founder of Middleman, an escrow service that facilitates secure transactions.
Eyes on Omolara: Logistics
3. Silas Adekunle, co-founder/CEO of Reach Industries
Silas Adekunle is a dynamic entrepreneur and the Co-Founder and CEO of Reach Industries, a trailblazing technology firm that is revolutionizing the robotics and automation landscape.
With an unwavering commitment to innovation, Silas has dedicated his career to crafting groundbreaking solutions that significantly enhance efficiency and productivity across multiple sectors.
Under his decisive leadership, Reach Industries has shattered expectations, achieving remarkable recognition for its pioneering work in advanced robotic systems that automate complex tasks.
Silas’s deep expertise in engineering and technology, combined with his entrepreneurial drive, has propelled the company to the forefront of the automation industry, attracting substantial investment and strategic partnerships.
Silas’s impressive journey began with a robust academic background in engineering and computer science, further enriched by hands-on experience in robotics and artificial intelligence.
His forward-thinking approach is evident in the creation of products that not only address current market demands but also anticipate future trends in automation and smart technology.
A fervent advocate for diversity and inclusion within the tech sector, Silas champions initiatives that empower underrepresented groups to pursue careers in STEM. He firmly believes that diverse perspectives are vital for fostering true innovation.
As a thought leader, Silas commands attention at industry conferences and events, where he shares his insights on the future of robotics and the transformative power of technology.
His relentless pursuit of excellence and genuine commitment to making a positive impact through technology inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs and innovators.
Through Reach Industries, Silas Adekunle is not merely transforming industries; he is setting a new standard for what is achievable through visionary thinking and unwavering dedication.
His leadership and strategic vision are propelling the future of automation, solidifying his status as a pivotal figure in the tech landscape.
Eyes on Silas: robotics and industrial automation
4. Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho, co-founder of Aje
Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho is a visionary entrepreneur and the co-founder of Aje, a dynamic platform designed to revolutionize the way businesses and consumers connect in the African market.
With a strong background in technology and business development, Ifeoluwa has dedicated his career to enhancing digital accessibility and fostering innovation across various sectors.
Ifeoluwa’s journey began with a passion for solving complex problems through technology. He recognized the potential of digital platforms to bridge gaps in the market, particularly in Africa, where traditional methods often fall short.
This realization led him to co-found Aje, which empowers businesses by providing them with tools and resources to thrive in a competitive landscape.
Under his leadership, Aje has grown rapidly, focusing on user-centric solutions that cater to both businesses and consumers.
The platform emphasizes transparency, efficiency, and ease of use, making it a preferred choice for many in the region.
Ifeoluwa is known for his strategic thinking and commitment to fostering collaboration among entrepreneurs.
He actively engages with startups and emerging businesses, sharing insights and advocating for a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Africa.
Through Aje, Ifeoluwa Wole-Osho is not just building a company; he is shaping the future of commerce in Africa, driving growth, and inspiring a new generation of innovators.
Eyes on Ifeoluwa: Marketplace growth
5. Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, founder and managing partner, Future Africa
Iyinoluwa Aboyeji is a a dynamic entrepreneur, well-known for his pivotal role in the African tech ecosystem.
Aboyeji is the founder and General Partner of Future Africa, a platform that provides funding, mentorship, and resources to empower innovative startups solving critical challenges across the continent.
He co-founded Flutterwave, a leading payments technology company that simplifies financial transactions across Africa and globally. Prior to that, he co-founded Andela, a global talent company that trains and connects African software developers with leading technology firms worldwide.
His efforts have significantly contributed to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic growth in Africa.
With a passion for leveraging technology to solve pressing challenges, Iyinoluwa has made significant contributions to the growth of the African tech landscape.
At Andela, Iyinoluwa played a pivotal role in creating a platform that trains software engineers in Africa and connects them with global tech companies. His vision was to address the talent gap in the tech industry while empowering young Africans with valuable skills.
Under his leadership, Andela has successfully trained thousands of developers, helping to establish a robust talent pipeline for the global tech workforce.
Following his success with Andela, Iyinoluwa co-founded Flutterwave, a fintech company that has revolutionized payment processing across Africa.
Flutterwave provides businesses with seamless payment solutions, enabling them to accept payments from customers worldwide.
Iyinoluwa’s strategic insight and understanding of the African market have been instrumental in positioning Flutterwave as a leader in the fintech space, facilitating cross-border transactions, and fostering economic growth across the continent.
Iyinoluwa’s entrepreneurial journey is underpinned by a strong educational background, including degrees from renowned institutions. His expertise in technology, business development, and venture capital has earned him recognition as a thought leader in the African startup ecosystem.
Beyond his entrepreneurial ventures, Iyinoluwa is a passionate advocate for innovation and entrepreneurship in Africa.
He actively mentors young entrepreneurs, sharing his insights and experiences to inspire the next generation of tech leaders.
His commitment to fostering a vibrant startup culture has made him a respected figure in the African tech community.
Through his groundbreaking work with Andela and Flutterwave, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji is not only shaping the future of technology in Africa but also contributing to the continent’s economic development and global competitiveness.
His vision, leadership, and dedication to empowering others continue to make a profound impact on the African tech landscape.
Eyes on Iyi: Startup funding
6. Luther Lawoyin, founder/CEO of PricePally
Luther Lawoyin is an innovative entrepreneur and the Founder and CEO of PricePally. The startup is transforming the landscape of food distribution and supply chain management in Nigeria.
With a strong commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting sustainable agricultural practices, Luther has positioned PricePally as a key player in enhancing access to affordable, high-quality food for consumers.
Under Luther’s leadership, PricePally has developed a unique model that connects farmers directly with consumers, cutting out intermediaries and ensuring fair prices for both producers and buyers.
This approach not only helps to reduce food waste but also empowers local farmers by providing them with a reliable market for their produce. Luther’s vision is driven by a desire to create a transparent and efficient food supply chain that benefits all stakeholders involved.
Luther’s journey into entrepreneurship is rooted in his passion for technology and its potential to drive social impact.
He holds a background in engineering and business, which has equipped him with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of the agricultural sector.
His strategic insights and innovative thinking have been instrumental in the growth of PricePally, attracting attention from investors and partners looking to make a positive impact in the food industry.
In addition to his work at PricePally, Luther is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and food security in Africa. He actively participates in discussions and initiatives aimed at improving agricultural practices and promoting food systems that are both resilient and equitable.
His dedication to fostering collaboration between farmers, consumers, and policymakers underscores his commitment to creating a sustainable future for food in Nigeria.
As a thought leader in the agritech space, Luther Lawoyin frequently shares his insights on the importance of leveraging technology to solve pressing issues in food distribution. His leadership at PricePally not only addresses immediate challenges but also sets a precedent for innovation in the agricultural sector.
Through his entrepreneurial endeavours, Luther is not only redefining the way food is sourced and consumed but also contributing to the broader goal of achieving food security and sustainability in Africa. His vision and determination continue to inspire others in the quest for innovative solutions to the continent’s agricultural challenges.
Eyes on Luther: food distribution and supply chain management
7. Manish Sardana, co-founder of Craydel
Manish Sardana is a visionary entrepreneur and the Co-Founder of Craydel, a pioneering edtech platform that is changing the way students access higher education opportunities.
With a robust background in technology and business development, Manish has been instrumental in shaping Craydel’s mission to provide seamless access to quality education for learners across Africa and beyond.
Under his leadership, Craydel has successfully connected thousands of students with reputable universities and institutions, facilitating their journey toward academic and professional success. Manish’s strategic vision focuses on leveraging technology to remove barriers to education, ensuring that students can easily navigate their options and make informed decisions.
Prior to founding Craydel, Manish honed his expertise in various sectors, including technology consulting and educational services. His experience in these fields has equipped him with a unique perspective on the challenges facing students today, driving his commitment to innovation in the education space.
Craydel has gained significant traction since its inception, attracting a diverse range of partnerships and investments, which underscore its potential for growth and impact. Manish’s proactive approach and dedication to fostering educational accessibility position him as a key player in the evolving landscape of African education.
Through his leadership at Craydel, Manish Sardana is not just transforming the education sector; he is empowering the next generation of leaders by making quality education more accessible than ever before.
Eyes on Manish: e-learning/education
8. Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, founder/CEO, Rise Networks
Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji is leading, silently, an artificial intelligence revolution in Africa. 2025 might be the year the world will celebrate this! Our eyes are on Toyosi.
She is the founder and CEO of Rise Networks, a leading social enterprise in Nigeria focused on youth empowerment and capacity development.
Rise Networks has gained attractions for its efforts to harness the potential of young people through innovation, technology, and education.
She is a thought leader who frequently speaks on leadership, innovation, and the role of technology in transforming Africa.
Her key initiatives include, but not limited to PassNowNow – a platform providing educational content and resources for secondary school students.
Through Rise Networks, Toyosi promotes AI adoption in Nigeria to foster innovation and economic growth.
She is an active member of the AI for Public Interest Working Group of the 2025 AI Action Summit to be hosted by the Government of France, an alumnus of the United States Government’s prestigious International Visitor Leadership Program and is a trusted expert on AI by foreign institutions seeking insights on the AI landscape within the region given.
She has been severally recognized for her contributions to the tech ecosystem in Nigeria and Africa and her support for the Continent’s broad economic development goals through research and learning development.
Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji holds Harvard, Stanford, and MIT degrees and certifications. She is passionate about equipping young Nigerians with the tools and skills needed to thrive in the digital economy.
Eyes on Toyosi: AI adoption
9. Ben Lyon – co-founder of KopoKopo
Ben Lyon is a visionary entrepreneur and the Co-Founder of KopoKopo, is payment processing platform that is disrupting the way businesses in Africa manage and accept digital payments.
With a robust background in technology and finance, Ben has been instrumental in driving KopoKopo’s mission to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) by providing them with accessible and efficient payment solutions.
Under Ben’s leadership, KopoKopo has become a trusted partner for thousands of merchants across Kenya and beyond, enabling them to seamlessly integrate mobile payment systems into their operations.
His strategic foresight has led to the development of innovative tools that help businesses increase sales, streamline operations, and improve customer engagement.
Ben is a strong advocate for financial inclusion and entrepreneurship in Africa. He actively collaborates with various stakeholders, including financial institutions and government agencies, to create an ecosystem that supports the growth of the digital economy.
His efforts have not only enhanced KopoKopo’s market presence but have also contributed to the broader adoption of digital payments in the region.
With a passion for technology and a deep understanding of the local market, Ben Lyon is dedicated to transforming the financial landscape in Africa, paving the way for a future where every business, regardless of size, can thrive in the digital economy. His commitment to innovation and excellence continues to inspire those around him, making him a key figure in the fintech industry.
Eyes on Ban: Digital Payment
10. Olatunde Victor Adeoluwa, founder of Salesplat
Olatunde loves to sale! As the founder at Salesplat, Olatunde Victor Adeoluwa qualifies to be called ‘a serial Nigerian entrepreneur’. A business growth strategist with about two decades experience in various sectors, including Agritech, FinTech, Healthtech, EdTech, and Energy.
He provides talents, trainings and technologies for revenue growth of organizations and specializes in scaling businesses and implementing strategies that drive growth and sustainability.
As a business and personal development coach, Victor is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to achieve their full potential.
Victor is passionate about creating impact-driven solutions that address critical challenges in society. His work reflects a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and empowering others through knowledge and technology.
Eyes on Tunde: Business coaching
Conclusion
These ten founders are not just leaders; they are visionaries shaping the future. Their stories inspire others to dream big, take risks, and make a positive impact on the world.
As they continue their journeys, their innovations remind us that the spirit of entrepreneurship is alive and thriving, ready to tackle the challenges of tomorrow.
