PAFON 3.0 is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 24, 2026, at the OrientalHotel, Lekki Road, Lagos, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM.

​Themed “Fair Digital Payments as a Catalyst for Deepening Financial Inclusion in Nigeria,” PAFON 3.0 serves as a strategic platform for senior executives from banks, fintechs, regulatory agencies, and technology innovators to address the evolving digital payment landscape.

As Nigeria transitions toward a cash-light economy, the forum will focus on critical pillars of sustainability, including transparency, pricing integrity, and system resilience.

Bridging Cybersecurity and Financial Inclusion

Professor Adewale Peter Obadare, the Founder/chief visionary officer of Digital Encode will deliver a cybersecurity-focused keynote address that connects trust, resilience, fraud prevention, and consumer protection to financial inclusion.

His session will provide a specialized perspective on how information security serves as the bedrock of financial inclusion; exploring the vital links between building infrastructure that consumers can rely on, protecting the ecosystem to allow inclusion to scale, and ensuring equitable and secure access for all Nigerians.

Prof. Obadare is arguably the most Credentialed PAN-African Digital Trust Leader, CyberSecurity Strategist, GRC Thought Leader & Global Technopreneur.

He is a seasoned Multi-Award Cybersecurity & GRC expert with over 58 (Fifty-Eight) international professional certifications to his credit, Master of Science in Cybersecurity, Liverpool Unversity, UK, was awarded Honorarary Doctorate Degree in Cybersecurity from Trinity International University of Ambassadors Atlanta Georgia, United State of America and First Professor of Practice – Cybersecurity at Miva Open University, Abuja, Nigeria.

Prof. Obadare is a well-recognized subject matter expert with numerous successful engagements to his credit in Africa and the world. His skills and experience spans Data Privacy, Data Protection, CyberSecurity, Information Security, Vulnerability Management, Penetration Testing, Computer Forensics, Business Continuity, I T Governance, Risk Management and Compliance.

He is a Cybersecurity Advisory Board Member for Lagos State Government, a Platinum Team Member of Open-Source Security Testing Methodology Manual (OSSTMM), as well as a lifetime member of  the Open Worldwide Application Security Project (OWASP). He is an alumnus of  FATE Foundation and US Department of State Exchange program.

He is also a distinguished alumnus of executive education at Harvard Business School, Harvard School of Government, MIT Sloan School of Management, MIT Professional Education and Oxford University – Said Business School.

​”Without trust in the security of digital payments, inclusion cannot scale. And we are happy to welcome Digital Encode as our Lead Sponsor this year. With what the company stands for and the personality of the CVO on a global scale, we have no doubt that attendees at this year’s PAFON will go home with lots of insights.”

“The theme for PAFON 3.0 was carefully selected because if digital payments are affordable, transparent, accessible, and trustworthy, more Nigerians, especially the underserved, will participate in the financial system”, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, the co-convener of Payments Forum Nigeria, noted, highlighting Digital Encode distinguished leadership in Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

Other Confirmed speakers: Dr. Jameelah Sharrieff-Ayedun, Vice President, Fintech Association of Nigeria (FintechNGR) & CEO, Credit Registry; Uche Uzoebo, MD/CEO, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF Limited): Special Guest of Honour; Mojeed Abayomi Agboola, National President, Financial Inclusion Agents Multipurpose Cooperative Society (FIAMCS); Dr. Obioha Otti, National President, Association of Mobile Money and Bank Agents in Nigeria (AMMBAN); Chukwuemeka Enoch, Founder, Lagos Blockchain Week, and Sarafadeen Fasasi, National President, Association of Financial Inclusion Agents of Nigeria (AFiAN), amongst others.

The forum will feature speakers from across the financial spectrum, including mobile money operators, payment processors, and development institutions, to shape policy dialogue and industry standards.

PAFON is a premier industry gathering that aligns brand positioning with trust and innovation in Nigeria’s digital payments ecosystem.

It provides a unique space for thought leadership, regulatory engagement, and market expansion within the payment infrastructure sector.

George Agu, the MD/CEO of ActivEdge Technologies Limited, is an astute founder and technology leader whose illustrious career spans over twenty-five years across core banking systems, enterprise applications, fintech, cybersecurity, and AI-powered e-government services.

His experience blends strong technical expertise with strategic business leadership, having successfully built and scaled enterprise and public-sector technology platforms across West, East, and Southern Africa.

A Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), Agu is also an alumnus of The Wharton School and the London School of Economics (LSE) through executive education, with specialisations in Entrepreneurship Acceleration, FinTech Revolution, Strategic Innovation, and Public Policy Analysis.

He began his professional journey as a software developer at CSA Nigeria in 2000, later joining Neptune Software, where he rose from Systems Implementation Manager to Managing Director/CEO for West Africa. At Neptune, he played a pivotal role in the success of the Equinox and Orbit core-banking platforms, with Orbit earning the No. 1 global ranking in microfinance core banking by CGAP (Washington DC).

As a serial founder, Agu established ActivEdge Technologies, a pan-African systems integrator delivering solutions in cybersecurity, GRC, enterprise automation, cloud, and core infrastructure, executing projects in more than six African countries.

He went on to found PayEdge, a fintech company addressing MSME liquidity and supply-chain finance challenges, and Introspec, a settlement and reconciliation platform used by banks in over fifteen African countries.

His latest innovation, HarmonyEdge, is an AI-powered e-government platform that digitises workflows, enables analytics and decisioning, supports citizen engagement, and powers payment and e-reconciliation systems, currently being piloted in a leading African nation.

Beyond entrepreneurship, George Agu contributes actively at board and civic levels. He serves on the Abia State Global Economic Advisory Council, chairing a sector committee, and on the board of TN Cybertech Bank, where he leads the Technology and Strategy Committee.

He also chairs the Business Roundtable of the African Bar Association and serves as Deputy President of the South East–South South Professionals.

Speaking ahead of AfriTECH 5.0, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener, described Agu as a “seasoned technology visionary whose work embodies the spirit of African innovation and digital self-reliance.”

“His keynote will provide practical insights on how AI and sovereign technologies can redefine digital transformation across Africa’s public and private sectors”, Onwuegbuchi said.

AfriTECH 5.0 will convene industry leaders, policymakers, investors, and innovators to explore the role of AI and indigenous technologies in driving Africa’s digital independence.

The event is supported by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) with Digital Encode Limited as the Platinum Sponsor.

Other Gold sponsors are Galaxy Backbone, itel, Digital Realty, ActivEdge Technologies, Tecom, Tizel Cybersecurity, AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited, SKOT Communications and other ecosystem partners.

Registration is ongoing via the portal.

AfriTECH 5.0 is set to be held on Thursday, November 13th, 2025 at Oriental Hotel, Lekki, Lagos, and will spotlight the power of homegrown solutions and global partnerships in driving Africa’s technological growth.

Founded in Digital Encode has built a formidable reputation for designing, managing, and securing business-critical networks, telecommunications environments, and other enterprise IT infrastructures.

Over the past two decades, the company has become a trusted partner to governments, financial institutions, and corporations seeking to strengthen their cybersecurity posture and operational resilience.

Speaking on the sponsorship, Prof. Adewale Peter Obadare, Nigeria’s first Professor of Practice in Cybersecurity, Founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Digital Encode Limited, emphasized that as Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to redefine global economies and social systems, Africa must carve its own path toward digital sovereignty, the capacity to build, govern, and secure its digital assets and ecosystems.

“Africa’s digital future cannot depend on imported technologies or external narratives. We must establish our own frameworks for innovation, governance, and security. AfriTECH provides a unique platform to drive this conversation, aligning Africa’s digital ambitions with global best practices,” Prof. Obadare said.

Themed “AI and Sovereign Tech: Building Africa’s Digital Independence,” AfriTECH 5.0 will convene key voices across government, academia, and industry to explore how AI and emerging technologies can be leveraged to power inclusive growth, strengthen data protection, localize innovation, and nurture sustainable digital ecosystems across the continent.

As Platinum Sponsor, Digital Encode’s participation underscores its commitment to advancing Africa’s digital resilience through thought leadership, capacity building, and technology-driven governance.

The company’s involvement is expected to inspire deeper discussions around cybersecurity readiness, AI ethics, data governance, and strategic digital partnerships tailored to Africa’s unique socio-economic realities.

The event will feature keynotes, fireside chats, policy dialogues, and innovation showcases, highlighting transformative ideas shaping Africa’s technology future; and Africa Tech Alliance Excellence (ATAEx) Awards, a prestigious award ceremony that celebrates outstanding innovation, leadership, and contributions to Africa’s digital economy.

Commending Digital Encode for buying into the vision of AfriTECH, Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, Co-convener of the Africa Tech Alliance Forum, expressed appreciation to the company’s leadership for its continued support of Africa-driven innovation and technological independence.

“We are deeply grateful to Digital Encode for championing indigenous innovation and demonstrating confidence in AfriTECH’s mission,” Onwuegbuchi said. “Their sponsorship reinforces our shared belief that Africa’s digital transformation must be led by Africans, leveraging homegrown expertise, world-class talent, and a vision anchored on sovereignty and sustainability.”

AfriTECH 5.0 promises to be a landmark convergence of minds shaping the next phase of Africa’s digital journey, and Digital Encode stands proudly at the forefront of this mission.

Widely known as “Prof. OPA”, he has become one of the most visible leaders in cybersecurity, digital trust, and governance across the continent, bridging the gap between industry practice, academic research, and global policy.

A Trailblazer in Cybersecurity

In 2024, Prof. Adewale became Nigeria’s first Professor of Practice in Cybersecurity, appointed by Miva Open University. It was a landmark moment, finally placing cybersecurity, often seen as purely technical, in the heart of higher education.

By linking academic rigor with hands-on practice, he is equipping Africa’s next generation of professionals with relevant, job-ready skills in penetration testing, compliance, forensics, and data protection.

Beyond academia, he is the founder of Digital Encode Limited, where he serves as Chief Visionary Officer.

Under his leadership, the company has become a trusted partner for Nigeria’s banking, telecoms, and public sectors, providing cutting-edge solutions in cybersecurity, risk, and compliance.

A Man of Many Firsts

Prof. Adewale holds over 60 international certifications, an extraordinary feat by global standards. Among his pioneering achievements are:

• Africa’s first EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester
• Nigeria’s first PECB Certified Data Protection Officer
• Nigeria’s first PECB Lead PenTest Professional
• Africa’s first EC-Council Certified Blockchain Expert…just to list a few.

These accolades are more than personal milestones. They set new standards, encouraging African professionals to pursue globally recognized qualifications and push the continent into the frontlines of digital excellence.

Awards and Recognition

The industry has not been slow to recognize his impact. In 2023, he was named Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding Digital Trust Leader, and in 2022, he received the Outstanding Individual of the Year Award from the Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN).

In 2025, his global influence has grown even stronger:

• Honoured with the African Leadership Excellence Award at the Africa Summit 2025 in London.
• Featured in Guardian Nigeria’s special focus on cybersecurity trailblazers.
• Celebrated for lifetime contributions in information and data management.

Global Voice and Thought Leadership

This year, Prof. Adewale’s voice has resonated on some of the world’s biggest stages:

• At the World Emerging Security Forum (WESF 2025) in Seoul, he joined global leaders to discuss strategies for building digital resilience.
• He was announced as a panelist at the 10th FATE Business Conference 2025, where he shared insights on technology, entrepreneurship, and risk management.
• His previous live demo on “Mobile Payment Reverse Engineering and Security Invasion” at a PCI Security Standards conference showcased his deep expertise in exposing vulnerabilities in financial technology.

These speaking engagements highlight his role as both a teacher and a practitioner, translating complex security challenges into practical solutions that governments, businesses, and young innovators can understand and apply.

Beyond the Individual: Building Africa’s Digital Future

Prof. Adewale’s impact goes far beyond titles and stages. His philosophy is rooted in ubuntu — the African value of shared humanity. For him, cybersecurity is not just about technology but about trust, governance, and empowering people.

Through his work at Digital Encode and Miva Open University, he is:

• Creating a pipeline of job-ready cybersecurity professionals.
• Driving policy conversations through advisory roles, including the Lagos State Cybersecurity Advisory Board.
• Advocating for African-led ethical standards in global discussions on AI, data, and digital security.

The Road Ahead

Africa’s digital economy is growing rapidly, but it also faces new risks — from AI-powered cyber threats to widening digital inequality.

Prof. Adewale insists that Africa cannot remain a passive consumer of security solutions. Instead, it must create its own frameworks, tools, and talent to lead the charge.

As he often says, cybersecurity in Africa is not just about protecting data, it is about protecting destiny.

Conclusion

In an age where digital trust is currency, Professor Obadare Peter Adewale is not just raising the bar; he is redefining it.

His work proves that Africa does not have to play catch-up in cybersecurity. With vision, expertise, and determination, the continent can lead.

As more young Africans enter the digital space, Prof. Adewale’s journey shows them what is possible: to dream big, break barriers, and secure Africa’s digital tomorrow.

As if that weren’t disturbing enough, the cost of a data breach in 2024 hit an all-time high of $4.88 million on average, leaving companies to double up for solutions. 

But the damage doesn’t stop there—88% of cybersecurity breaches are caused by human error, showing how easily things can go wrong when someone clicks on the wrong link or forgets a password.

Meanwhile, 72.7% of organizations found themselves at the mercy of ransomware attacks in 2023, further increasing the cybersecurity scare. And let’s not even get started on the high price of cyber insurance, which saw premiums in the U.S. jump 50% in just one year, reaching $7.2 billion in 2022.

While the global industry is waging a war against digital threats, Africa is not immune. Governments and financial institutions are being attacked daily, with 29% of cyberattacks targeting governmental agencies and 22% aimed at financial organizations. 

In countries like South Africa and Nigeria, cybercriminals are exploiting vulnerabilities, making these nations prime targets for dark web activity.

But with the cybersecurity market in Nigeria expected to hit $146.4 million by 2025, there is hope on the horizon and several companies are building cybersecurity solutions to overcome these attacks.

With that in mind, let’s take a look at the top 10 cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025:

1. Digital Encode Limited
2. Cybervergent
3. Cybersafe Foundation
4. Sophos
5. ESET
6. RaveBeta
7. APISentry
8. Tabiri Analytics
9. SHELT SI
10. Sendmarc

These companies are bolstering innovation and offering much-needed protection in these vulnerable digital times:

1. Digital Encode Limited

The works of Digital Encode Limited in boosting cybersecurity in Africa and beyond have been so commendably loud. Established 21 years ago, the company did a lot in 2024, placing it as a top company for unicorn status in the cybersecurity space. 

Under the leadership of Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, chief visionary officer, the company opened a state-of-the-art sub-Saharan global office in Lekki, Lagos. This facility is central to its mission of safeguarding organisations from emerging cyber threats.

Again, Digital Encode launched the Centre for Information Security Intelligence (CISI), a cutting-edge initiative designed to provide threat intelligence and enhance cyber situational awareness. 

CISI uses proprietary solutions to identify vulnerabilities and deploy targeted countermeasures, minimizing the likelihood of cyber incidents. This innovative approach has strengthened Digital Encode’s prestige as a leader in the cybersecurity space.

Dr Adewale recently emphasised the company’s focus on staying ahead of the curve through research, thought-provoking insights, and active participation in industry events. In 2024, Digital Encode also published groundbreaking research reports that impacted global cybersecurity discourse. The company’s innovation and client-centric strategies ensure they remain at the top of the industry, placing it among the top 10 cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025.

2. Cybervergent

Cybervergent, a technology firm specialising in automated cybersecurity solutions, has made waves in the cybersecurity field. In recent times, the company rose as a solution expert in the Nigerian business sector by addressing the recent enactment of the Nigerian Data Protection Act (NDPA), which imposes strict regulations on businesses handling personal data. 

Cybervergent has stepped up to simplify the compliance process, providing an AI-powered platform that automates data protection workflows, uploads essential documents, and ensures real-time monitoring. This solution is important for businesses striving to meet NDPA standards efficiently.

Adetokunbo Omotosho, co-founder and CEO of Cybervergent, recently spoke on the importance of this change. The company’s AI-automated compliance platform makes it easier for businesses of all sizes to scale through the complexities of the NDPA, offering guided workflows, early security reports, and document consolidation. 

With features like evidence collection, process automation, and industry-standard security checks, Cybervergent is making compliance both a regulatory requirement and also a strategic business asset.

In 2023, Cybervergent earned recognition from the Great Place to Work Institute, receiving Platinum certification for its outstanding work environment and employee experience. The company has become a top player in the Nigerian and African markets. The company is continuously providing scalable, automated solutions that enhance cybersecurity resilience for businesses globally.

3. Cybersafe Foundation

Cybersafe Foundation, led by Confidence Staveley, has been bridging the digital gender gap while bolstering cybersecurity awareness. In 2024, the foundation achieved extraordinary milestones, particularly through its DigiGirls programme, funded by the United Kingdom Government.

The programme trained over 65,000 women and girls across Nigeria, training them with employable digital skills.

The initiative’s success was celebrated at the International Women’s Day DigiHubs Awards, where several hubs across Nigeria were recognised for their outstanding contributions to digital inclusion. The programme’s innovative structure—supported by 200 volunteer alumni DigiChampions and partnerships with 60 hubs in 22 states—ensured its wide-reaching impact.

Cybersafe’s partnership with Check Point Software Technologies further held up its achievements in 2024. In integrating Check Point’s SecureAcademy courses into the CyberGirls programme, the foundation provided advanced cybersecurity training to women aged 18–28. This initiative addressed the gender gap in cybersecurity and also offered mentorship, certification preparation, and internship opportunities.

The foundation’s works have had a huge impact on underserved communities, enhancing socio-economic prospects for women while addressing global cybersecurity challenges. Confidence Staveley recently noted that the programmes have opened life-changing opportunities for many fellows, contributing to the pipeline of future cybersecurity experts.

These achievements highlight why Cybersafe Foundation is among the top cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025. 

4. Sophos

Sophos has consistently led adaptive cybersecurity. In 2024, its Managed Detection and Response (MDR) service experienced a 37% growth, now safeguarding over 26,000 organisations worldwide. This surge in demand stresses the efficacy of Sophos’ expert-led security solutions, particularly in fighting sophisticated threats like ransomware, phishing, and business email compromise.

What makes Sophos even more commendable is its unlimited incident response services included in the MDR package, sparing customers additional costs and allowing speedy mitigation of threats. In addition, its breach protection warranty offers up to $1 million in incident response expenses, enhancing trust among its clientele.

In 2024, Sophos invested heavily in advancing its MDR services, unveiling features like AI-assisted workflows and expanded integrations with third-party tools. These innovations made operations more efficient, reduced response times, and improved threat-hunting accuracy. 

Sophos also strengthened its ecosystem by integrating Microsoft Office 365 detection mechanisms and establishing partnerships with leading backup solutions such as Acronis and Veeam.

This approach earned Sophos several recognitions including titles like Leader in the IDC MarketScape and Frost Radar reports. It was also named Best Managed Detection and Response Service in the SC Awards, further bolstering its reputation. With solid solutions and a focus on innovation, Sophos is undoubtedly one of the top cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025.

5. ESET (Nigeria)

ESET stood out in 2024 as a Strategic Leader in AV-Comparatives’ Endpoint Prevention and Response (EPR) Comparative Report. With its ESET PROTECT Enterprise platform, the company asserted unmatched services by preventing breaches in 50 complex attack scenarios and detecting 98% of threats in their early stages.

ESET’s focus on quality and security earned it the Pan African Information Security Product of the Year Award, recognising its contributions to ICT solutions across Africa. Again, ESET took community engagement to heart, receiving the Cybersecurity Awareness Award at the San Diego Cybersecurity Stewardship Awards for educating and empowering users.

Customer satisfaction was another area where ESET did great. It earned 27 Leader Badges in G2’s Summer 2024 Reports, with 98% of users rating ESET PROTECT with four or five stars. With such high trust and effectiveness, ESET is resilient to remain a disruptor in the cybersecurity space this year.

6. Ravebeta

Ravebeta, founded in 2018 by Prince Ikechukwu Igwe, was officially incorporated in 2019. Born out of Igwe’s deep understanding of the threats in the digital space. His journey began when he organized the “Abia Cybersecurity Summit” while still a student at Abia State University.

This early exposure to cyberspace threats and his subsequent studies at Glasgow Caledonian University prepared him with the expertise needed to establish Ravebeta, which aims to help small and medium enterprises (SMEs) safeguard their digital assets.

In 2024, Ravebeta stood out for its ability to address local cybersecurity challenges, particularly in Nigeria, where cyberattacks on SMEs have skyrocketed. According to reports, Nigeria saw a 174% increase in cyberattacks targeting SMEs within just six months in 2022. Ravebeta’s approach to cybersecurity is unique, as it combines cutting-edge technology with a strong focus on education and awareness. 

In conducting outreach campaigns across schools, universities, and town halls, the company has helped businesses understand the importance of digital security. This educational approach has resulted in a 95% user satisfaction rate, with Ravebeta’s solutions helping clients in various sectors such as real estate, FMCG, telecoms, oil and gas, and government agencies.

Though still in its early stages, Ravebeta has done great in developing its flagship product, Ravebeta Plus, which is expected to enhance cybersecurity solutions greatly for businesses. The company’s works have been recognized for their focus on supporting SMEs to grow into large organizations while simultaneously providing advanced security solutions to larger enterprises. 

7. APISentry

APISentry, founded in 2023 by Sylvia Onwukwe, Damilola Enikanoselu, and Emmanuel Ezehiwele, has taken a unique approach to cybersecurity by integrating predictive analytics into its platform. Cyber threats are growing faster than ever, especially in Nigeria, where phishing attacks increased by 12% in Q3 2023 alone, businesses need an assertive cybersecurity solution. APISentry was created to address this need by developing a unified platform that detects and prevents cyber threats, as well as predicts them before they occur.

APISentry’s platform operates in two modes: a learning mode that flags suspicious activities and an active mode that blocks potential threats in real time. This dual functionality has proven to be highly effective, as seen by the company’s success in mitigating over a million cyberattacks. 

In one high-profile case, APISentry helped a financial institution prevent a Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attack by implementing rate-limiting measures to block malicious traffic while allowing legitimate operations to continue uninterrupted. This approach helped save the institution from major financial losses and preserved its reputation.

In 2024, APISentry’s continued success in protecting businesses from cyber threats placed it among the top cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025. The company has expanded beyond Nigeria, with a growing customer base in Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, and Namibia. Its participation in accelerator programs, including the BRAIN Accelerator in Cape Town, has further boosted its visibility and network, ensuring the company continues to grow across the African continent.

8. Tabiri Analytics

Tabiri Analytics has introduced an innovative model to tackle the global cybersecurity talent shortage. In 2024, the company forged a partnership with Carnegie Mellon University to train individuals in Rwanda, training them with skills to address the increasing demand for cybersecurity professionals. 

This initiative helps to alleviate the talent shortage and provides an affordable, high-quality cybersecurity monitoring service to underserved markets.

Co-founders Savannah Kadima and Edwin K. Kairu highlighted the win-win nature of the initiative, stating, “Our clients benefit from a deeper bench of talent, while also getting a more affordable monitoring service. At the same time, we are building the next generation of cybersecurity professionals in underserved emerging market regions.”

Tabiri Analytics leverages this new talent pool to provide automated cybersecurity services, including low-cost hardware sensors, open-source software agents, and cloud-based computing to track and analyze system logs and networks.

This unique approach to outsourcing cybersecurity monitoring allows companies to focus on other areas of their business while Tabiri Analytics manages the cybersecurity risks. The company’s operational model provides a valuable service to clients, ensuring continuous protection against cyber threats while contributing to the growth of the local economy and training the next generation of cybersecurity experts. 

With a growing focus on affordability and automation, Tabiri Analytics is undoubtedly among the top cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025.

9. SHELT SI

SHELT, a respected provider of cybersecurity solutions, has significantly enhanced its position in the cybersecurity sector by launching SHELT System Integration (SHELT SI) in Nigeria. This is part of the company’s goal to accelerate Nigeria’s digital growth. 

With a solid six-year history of serving key sectors such as finance, telecommunications, and government, SHELT is well-placed to expand its services. SHELT SI is an important addition to SHELT’s portfolio, offering cutting-edge, scalable, and secure solutions that address the evolving needs of businesses in Nigeria.

SHELT SI is focused on providing trusted and unbiased expertise in cybersecurity while partnering with global leaders. These partnerships aim to deliver top-tier solutions in networking, cloud management, security, collaboration, managed services, communication services, and IT professional services. The company’s expansion will also focus on attracting top Nigerian talent, further bolstering the country’s digital space.

SHELT was recently honoured as the Top Cybersecurity Solutions Provider in the MENA Region, a recognition that reiterates its importance in addressing cybersecurity challenges globally. The company’s security operations centers (SOC), which operate 24/7 across multiple regions including Cyprus, Nigeria, and Saudi Arabia, are a testament to SHELT’s global reach. 

These SOCs provide cybersecurity-as-a-service, applying a ‘follow the sun’ model to ensure continuous protection against potential threats. This model allows SHELT’s experts to respond to security breaches in real-time, minimizing risks for its clients.

SHELT’s comprehensive security framework uses an adaptive architecture to stay ahead of evolving threats, drawing from both external and internal sources. This approach allows SHELT to detect, manage, and neutralize cybersecurity risks from a variety of sources, including surface, deep, and dark web data. 

Furthermore, the company has been commended for its ability to seamlessly onboard new clients, providing a plug-and-play service that does not require in-house expertise to maintain cybersecurity standards.

With its globally recognized certifications, including GDPR and ISO/IEC 27001:2022, SHELT’s allegiance to providing resilient and adaptive cybersecurity services makes it a company to watch in 2025 and beyond.

10. Sendmarc

Founded in 2020, Sendmarc, a South African startup, has quickly climbed to the top in email security, particularly through its innovative solutions to combat phishing, spoofing, and domain impersonation. 

With its specialized focus on DMARC (Domain-based Message Authentication, Reporting, and Conformance), Sendmarc ensures that organizations can manage and enforce secure email communication, thus preventing email-based fraud and safeguarding businesses from the harmful effects of phishing attacks.

In 2024, Sendmarc’s reputation continued to grow as it expanded its product portfolio to include additional cybersecurity features like Breach Detection and Lookalike Domain Defense.

These additions, which complement its existing DMARC solutions, are designed to protect businesses against data breaches and email impersonation, fortifying their defences against a growing range of cyber threats. 

The company is making the internet safer and has garnered global attention, with Sendmarc currently serving over 1,000 paying customers across multiple industries worldwide, including law firms, banks, and tech startups.

In addition to its great customer base, Sendmarc raised $7 million in Series A funding in 2023, led by Atlantica Ventures. The company’s plans for 2025 include expanding its reach to serve up to 100,000 customers in the next five years. This target is supported by Sendmarc’s growing presence in markets such as North America, Europe, South Africa, and Latin America, where it has established offices in the Netherlands, Argentina, and Canada.

Sendmarc’s innovation and customer satisfaction are seen in its hands-on approach to DMARC implementation and management. The company offers a collaborative journey to cybersecurity protection, working closely with businesses to ensure their email security is robust and up to global standards. 

With its unique combination of industry expertise, cutting-edge technology, and a focus on customer success, Sendmarc has earned its place among the top cybersecurity companies to watch in 2025 and beyond.

This was the emphasis of the Africa Tech Alliance Forum (AfriTECH 4.0), held recently in Lagos, where industry experts, policymakers, and SMEs discussed innovative strategies for leveraging technology to leapfrog into the digital future.

Themed “Leapfrogging Digital Transformation for Future of Africa’s Economy,” AfriTECH 4.0 accentuated the indispensable role of SMEs, which form the backbone of Africa’s economy. 

According to the International Finance Corporation (IFC), SMEs contribute approximately 90% of businesses and 50% of employment across the continent.

Yet, many face challenges in accessing the tools and opportunities necessary for growth. 

The lessons from AfriTECH 4.0 provide a guide for SMEs to build resilience and promote innovation while staying competitive globally.

Financial Inclusion: Empowering SMEs Through Technology

Mr. Biram Fall, regional general manager, QNET sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the massive possibility of financial inclusion in Africa, noting that “with over 350 million unbanked adults, there is a significant potential for financial inclusion and digital solutions for Africa.” 

He stressed the transformative power of fintech in providing essential financial tools like savings accounts, credit, and insurance, all of which are important for SMEs seeking economic independence.

The demand for financial inclusion aligns with projections of a $75 billion e-commerce market in Africa by 2025, driven by internet access and smartphone adoption. However, Fall cautioned against infrastructural and cultural obstacles: “Limited banking infrastructure and high cash dependency hinder digital engagement.” 

SMEs can benefit by embracing mobile wallet solutions, which simplify transactions and boost consumer trust, thereby opening access to a wider e-commerce market.

With over 60% of Africans under 25, young entrepreneurs are leading digital growth by building scalable tech solutions, as emphasized by Jude Ozinegbe, founder/convener at Cyberchain. 

Similarly, women-focused programmes and local initiatives supporting female entrepreneurs ensure inclusivity. In empowering these demographics, SMEs can benefit from diverse perspectives and creative solutions, boosting innovation and long-term growth. 

These will go beyond bridging gender gaps to also stimulating a culture of innovation that strengthens local economies.

Blockchain and AI: Redefining SME Operations

In his keynote, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), emphasized the disruptive capability of blockchain and artificial intelligence (AI). 

He stated, “Blockchain and artificial intelligence are powerful technologies that offer Africa unprecedented opportunities. By strategically integrating these technologies, we can propel Africa forward as a dynamic leader in the global digital economy.”

For SMEs, blockchain presents avenues to secure transactions, ensure transparency, and reduce operational inefficiencies. 

Abdullahi projected that blockchain could contribute $300 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2025, especially through financial inclusion and governance applications. 

Meanwhile, AI-powered tools offer SMEs the ability to optimize resources, automate operations, and drive productivity, particularly in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education.

Challenges SMEs Face in Adopting Emerging Technologies

While the prospects of digital transformation are evident, SMEs often encounter limitations:

• Digital Literacy: Many SME owners lack the skills needed to effectively use advanced technologies.
• Cost of Technology: Financial restrictions limit access to tools like AI and blockchain.
• Resistance to Change: Traditional businesses often hesitate to digitise operations.
• Infrastructure Gaps: Limited connectivity in rural areas affects adoption rates.

Addressing these issues requires collaboration between governments, the private sector, and educational institutions. Through training, subsidies, and partnerships, these challenges can be mitigated to enable SMEs to unlock their potential.

Cybersecurity: Safeguarding the Digital Future of SMEs

Dr. Obadare Peter Adewale, chief visionary officer of Digital Encode Limited, addressed the increasing risks accompanying digital transformation. 

He noted, “The rapid pace of technological advancements has introduced new cybersecurity threats and challenges.” For SMEs, which often operate with limited resources, powerful cybersecurity frameworks are essential to protect against cyberattacks and fraud.

Obadare highlighted that “Healthcare, financial services, and cloud providers remain prime targets, with attacks on critical infrastructure and IoT expected to intensify.” 

The takeaway for SMEs? Adopting a security-first culture, supported by partnerships between governments and private sectors, is essential to ensuring resilience in a digitally interconnected economy.

Useful Tips for SMEs

SMEs looking to make maximum use of technology can follow these steps:

1. Start Small: Begin with low-cost digital tools like WhatsApp Business or mobile payment systems.
2. Leverage Training Opportunities: Join government or private sector training programmes focused on digital literacy and entrepreneurship.
3. Collaborate with Fintechs: Partner with startups that can provide tailored solutions for SME needs.
4. Explore Funding Options: Tap into grants and microfinance opportunities aimed at promoting tech adoption.

Digital Payments: A Game-Changer for SMEs

Mrs Ebehijie Momoh, CEO of AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited, stressed the growing importance of digital payments in facilitating financial inclusion. 

She noted that “Nigeria’s digital payments landscape is experiencing rapid expansion, with 2023 alone seeing an estimated $730 billion in transactions.” 

For SMEs, innovations like the AfriGo card, which processes transactions in local currency, reduce reliance on foreign exchange and enable faster capital turnover.

Momoh underlined the need for accessibility, affordability, and product diversity in digital payment solutions. She added that “fintech companies are critical in ensuring affordable and accessible services, supported by regulations and a robust digital infrastructure to enable responsible and sustainable financial growth.” 

SMEs that leverage these tools can simplify operations, reduce costs, and expand their market reach.

Policy and Accountability: Bridging the Gap for SMEs

Muhammed Rudman, CEO of the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), critiqued the contrast between policies and their execution. He stated, “We have excellent policies, but when it comes to implementing those policies, we are really, really lagging behind.” 

Policy implementation is necessary for SMEs to access the infrastructure and services needed for digital transformation. Rudman called for tougher penalties for non-performance to ensure government accountability, a measure that could directly benefit SME growth.

Collaboration: The Key to Digital Transformation

A recurring theme at AfriTECH 4.0 was the importance of partnerships. From QNET’s financial literacy programmes that promote entrepreneurship to NITDA’s focus on digital literacy, collaboration between governments, private sectors, and SMEs was deemed essential. 

“True progress requires collaboration,” stated Mr. Biram Fall, emphasizing the role of cross-sector partnerships in building a digital economy that is inclusive and resilient.

The insights from AfriTECH 4.0 reiterates that SMEs are at the heart of Africa’s digital transformation and financial inclusion, leveraging emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, adopting strong cybersecurity measures, and utilizing innovative digital payment systems, will help SMEs drive economic growth and resilience.

However, the journey requires accountability, supportive policies, and strategic collaborations to reach Africa’s goal of a competitive digital economy. 

“Africa’s potential in the digital age is boundless… We are not just spectators in the digital revolution; we are pioneers. Let us seize this moment to place Africa at the forefront of global innovation.” – Kashifu Abdullahi.

Set to take place at Oriential Hotels, Lekki Road, Lagos, Nigeria, on Thursday November-07-2024, AfriTECH 4.0 is Africa’s premier technology and innovation conference, uniting industry leaders, innovators, policymakers, and tech enthusiasts from across the continent.

The theme for AfriTECH 4.0, “Leapfrogging Digital Transformation for Future of Africa’s Economy,” reflects the urgent need to harness technology for sustainable development across the region.

This year’s sponsors include major players in ecommerce (Direct Selling), telecommunications, artificial intelligence/blockchain technology, finance/digital assets, and cybersecurity, each recognized for their contributions to shaping Africa’s digital economy.

Official Sponsors of AfriTECH 4.0:

QNET – GOLD SPONSOR

QNET is a prominent lifestyle and wellness company that uses a direct selling business model to offer a wide selection of exclusive products that enable individuals to embrace a healthier, more balanced life.

Since 1998, QNET’s innovative products and e-commerce-driven business model have helped build a global community of satisfied customers and microentrepreneurs, who are driven by the mission of RYTHM – Raise Yourself To Help Mankind.

Popular product brands offered by QNET include the Bernhard H. Mayer range of luxury watches and jewellery, HomePure range of home care products, the Amezcua wellness range, Physio Radiance personal care range, and QVI branded holiday packages.

QNET proudly holds memberships in the Direct Selling Association in several countries, the Hong Kong Health Food Association, the Health Supplements Industry Association of Singapore, and more. QNET is also active in several global sports sponsorships including in its role as the official direct selling partner of the Manchester City Football Club and the Confederation of African Football (CAF), underscoring its commitment to excellence and global reach.

Galaxy Backbone

Galaxy Backbone was established by the Federal Government of Nigeria to operate a nationwide IP-based network that will provide a common platform for connectivity and other infrastructure services for all Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs).

Galaxy Backbone currently owns and operates a 1482Km optical fibre backbone from Abuja across 13 states of the federation, with 19 more states coming. They also own and operate a 375km metro optical fibre network covering Abuja and other parts of the FCT.

As one of the telecommunications services provider in Africa, Galaxy Backbone’s sponsorship underlines the importance of robust connectivity infrastructure in driving digital transformation. GBB will showcase its innovative services and network solutions designed to empower businesses and individuals across Africa.

Digital Realty (Nigeria)

Digital Realty Nigeria is a data center operator that offers colocation, interconnection, and data center solutions.

As part of Digital Realty, a global data center provider with over 300 facilities in more than 25 countries, Digital Realty Nigeria offers secure and scalable infrastructure, access to undersea cables, and carriers to connect to Europe and the Mediterranean.

Digital Realty Nigeria has a data center in Lagos, Nigeria, called LOS1, located at 8A Saka Tinubu Street, Victoria Island. Digital Realty Nigeria also has a data center in the Lekki area of Lagos, and plans for a fourth campus in the Ikeja area.

Hyperspace Technologies

Hyperspace Technologies is a Lagos-based web3 startup that offers web solutions, including websites, web applications, branding, marketing, and hosting. The company also has a focus on security, with a patented product called cipherKEY tap2sign MFA that uses blockchain, public/private key cryptography, and NFC (Near Field Communication) technology to protect against identity theft, phishing, and social engineering.

Open Access Data Centres (OADC)

With the development of Africa’s digital economy a significant driving force for the continent’s economic growth, the launch of Open Access Data Centres (OADC) represents a major milestone for Africa: a US$500 million-plus, multi-year investment programme that will strengthen key elements of the continent’s digital infrastructure.

OADC has made a significant impact on the market in terms of its rapid speed in building a network of data centres and flexible client solutions. Learn more about OADC at AfriTECh 4.0.

Honourable Mentions: Several other sponsors and ecosystem partners, including leading tech startups and industry associations, are contributing to the success of AfriTECH 4.0, ensuring the event delivers on its promise to be a dynamic platform for networking, collaboration, and thought leadership.

They include, Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), Digital Encode Limited, Tecom, Northsnow, Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN), AfriGoPay Financial Services Limited, Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), Cyberchain, Lagos Blockchain Week, InnovationBed Africa, amongst others.

AfriTECH 4.0 will feature keynote speeches, interactive panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions, focusing on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, fintech, cybersecurity, and digital infrastructure.

This year’s sponsors will take center stage to share their insights and offer practical solutions to the challenges facing Africa’s digital economy.

Speaking on the sponsorships, Chike Onwuegbuchi, co-convener, and AfriTECH 4.0 Organizing Committee Chairman, said:

“We are excited to have such a strong group of sponsors onboard for AfriTECH 4.0. These organizations are not only leaders in their respective fields but also catalysts for change in Africa’s digital ecosystem. Their support underscores the importance of collaboration in shaping Africa’s digital future.”

AfriTECH 4.0 is expected to draw hundreds of attendees, including government representatives, business executives, technology experts, and innovators from across the continent and beyond. With the support of its sponsors, AfriTECH 4.0 is set to be a landmark event, driving conversations and initiatives that will propel Africa’s digital economy to new heights.

For more information about AfriTECH 4.0, including sponsorship opportunities, visit the website.

Participation is free, but you are required to register via the link here.

AfriTECH 4.0 in partnership with Techeconomy also enlisted the support of esteemed media platforms such as: Nigeria CommunicationsWeek, ITPulse.com.ng, DigiVation Network (AIT), Ravenewsonline, Techbuild.Africa, TechTrends.Africa, TechTv, TechLifeWithUgo, GrassRoots.ng, ITNews.ng, Tech and Business News, BusinessRemarks, ITRealms, DigitalTimesng.com, TechnologyMirror, CyberEra, Businessmetrics, SwiftReporters and Hyperscalers Africa Media.

This is essential for driving sub-sectoral digital growth through Artificial Intelligence (AI).

In his presentation, through Oluwakayode Olatunji, CISO and group head of InfoSec & GRC Advisory at Digital Encode Limited, at one-day ICT Growth Conference organized by the Nigeria Information Technology Reporters’ Association (NITRA) at the Citi Height Hotel, Lagos, he noted that many African countries lag behind in cybersecurity.

Even in Nigeria, the financial sector has been at the forefront of leveraging AI and cybersecurity, contributing about 25%-30% of AI involvement based on local statistics.

Prof. Obadare highlighted the potential of AI across various sectors, including finance, health, energy, transportation, defense, medical, and agriculture.

He underscored AI’s ability to predict productivity and its diverse benefits but quickly cautioned against the dangers of AI misuse, stemming from issues such as bias and fairness, inadequate transparency, security vulnerabilities, data privacy concerns, and ethical and moral dilemmas.

The cybersecurity expert discussed the use of AI in threat landscape profiling, crime detection and prevention, and reporting capabilities.

He stressed the importance of responsible AI usage and the need for continued investment in AI and cybersecurity.

Identifying AI Governance, Architecture, Implementation, Operations, and Monitoring (GAIOM) as key elements for effective cybersecurity strategies in responsible AI development, he emphasized the importance of AI architecture, including business and data architecture, technology-infrastructure architecture and the necessity of a security architecture which includes cybersecurity and data privacy protection respectively.

Data protection and privacy are crucial components of AI implementation. The process of implementing AI, from setting goals to security monitoring, is vital. The role of education and investment in education for driving AI adoption and economic growth cannot be overemphasized.

To fully realize the impact of AI on national development, he advocated for explicitly defined governance objectives, an AI ethical framework, an interdisciplinary approach, robust local content data management, all-inclusive regulatory compliance, tailored best practice risk assessment and mitigation, transparency and explainability, sustained human capacity development, and robust processes to address AI implementation challenges. He also argued that monitoring AI usage and ensuring its alignment with set goals during the implementation process is critical.

In addition, he called for increased public sector and government investment in education to drive AI adoption and economic growth, noting that the role of education in providing the necessary skills and knowledge for AI implementation cannot be ignored.

He introduced the concept of “knowledge banking,” where knowledge can be monetized to address various economic sectors. He pointed out that in countries using AI to drive their economies, education is a fundamental prerequisite, and positively disruptive education leads to the needed transformation by developing tailored skill sets.

“When we examine this, it becomes evident that many challenges we face in this part of the world will become easier to address. As a country, we have the potential to be a leading light in the knowledge economy because Nigeria is blessed with brilliant men and women,” he said.

Prof. Obadare, who was recently appointed a Professor of Practice by MIVA Open University, Abuja, also proposed a disruption of the educational sector to improve data quality.

He emphasized that relying too heavily on outsourced data libraries can lead to AI biases and stressed the importance of maintaining excellent data quality as a local content treasure.

“To address this, we need to disrupt the educational sector, particularly from primary to tertiary institutions, to focus more on institutional or research-based education. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, much of the global data was sourced from Johns Hopkins Hospital research center, indicating the importance of local research centers.

“We should encourage partnerships with the private and public sectors to create local content hubs, which would attract global tech companies like Meta and Google to invest in our ingenuity. Our tertiary education sector should be research-oriented and local content-focused to improve data quality and upskill the workforce, adapting to the challenge of training AI rather than traditional skills,” he concluded.

Financial industry experts are warming up for the first edition of PAFON, scheduled to take place at Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Lagos on Thursday March 21, 2024, by 9am.

The Forum aims at providing an inside-look at the industry, offering perspectives from key stakeholders, including payment networks, technology innovators, leading merchants, issuers, acquirers and payment processors.

Throughout the years, the finance world has shifted into something much more than just banking and big corporations.

Speaking ahead of the star-studded PAFON 1.0, with the theme: “Payments: Trust, Security and Privacy in AI Era”, Dr. Adewale Peter Obadare, the Chief Visionary Officer [CVO], Digital Encode Limited, said that customers want to be assured that their sensitive information, such as credit card numbers and personal details, is treated with utmost care hence security has become paramount in the payments industry.

“Secure payment processing ensures that data breaches are minimized, instilling confidence in customers to keep coming back. Nigerian financial institutions reported ₦159 billion ($201.5 million) lost to fraud cases since 2020, according to the Financial Institutions Training Centre (FITC). This is what the experts must tackle and customer awareness is key too”, he said.

Based on a report by Gartner, by 2024, 40% of privacy compliance technology will rely on AI, up from 5% in 2019, and by 2025, 60% of large organizations will use at least one privacy-enhancing computation technique in analytics, business intelligence, or cloud computing, and financial services industry is no exempted.

On the other hand, Roosevelt Elias, the co-founder of Payble, described PAFON as a ‘must-attend’ Forum due to the ‘issues listed to be discussed are germane and require critical attention.

For instance, building financial inclusive products requires a mix of technology and illiteracy. The industry can’t achieve this by working in silos; we just have to unite to achieve the set target on financial inclusion, particularly for the rural dwellers.

Digital Encode Limited (a leading consulting and integration that specializes in the design, management, and security of business-critical architecture); Cybervergent (a company dedicated to helping protect business sensitive data from cyber-attacks, including customer information, financial records and intellectual property); Payble (a fintech startup that modernises local government payments such as creating citizen-centric payment experiences, delivering flexible billing and simplified rate collection, will be joined at PAFON 1.0 by Inlaks, an IT company that offers core banking, fraud management, cybersecurity, cloud, data center, enterprise risk management, amongst other industry players.

“Our goal is to enable information exchange and knowledge sharing on key industry insights issues amongst key stakeholders, with the objective of ensuring a collaborative and proactive approach to push for policies that enable growth, tackling/mitigating fraud and limiting occurrences and losses”, said Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi, the co-founder of TechCastle Foundation, organisers of Payment Forum Nigeria (PAFON).

He said that the Forum is driven by the reasons to; “educate and inform financial service players and other stakeholders on various issues and trends (both locally and globally); proactively share data/information amongst banks, Fintechs and other service providers, to enable prompt responses to prevent and/or limit (customer-related) losses; and discuss key Payments security trends”.

“Speakers will be drawn among industry players such as banks, Fintechs, mobile money operators, blockchain experts, Cybersecurity, etc., as we expect attendees from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN); e-Banking Heads; Chief Compliance Officers of banks in Nigeria; Chief Internal Auditors of banks in Nigeria; Office of The National Security Adviser; Switching companies; the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission; Licensed Mobile Payment Operators; Electronic Payments Providers; Information Security Experts; Consumer Protection; Financial Policy and Regulation; Information Technology; Legal Services; Banking Supervision; Corporate Communication; Shared Services Office; Blockchain Security Experts, etc”, he added.

Participation:

Participation is free; however, you are required to pre-register using the link here.

For sponsorship, please contact: Mr. Chike Onwuegbuchi via: 08123355522 or Peter Oluka: 08184346261 or email: africaTechAllianceForum@gmail.com.