Ekeh, who turned 70 on Sunday, February 22, also extended gratitude to governors; former governors, including Babatunde Raji Fashola, former governor of Lagos state; National Assembly members; captains of industries, members of the global tech community, some of whom sent delegations to his house aside virtual goodwill messages sent from across the globe; royal fathers and the media.

In a post-birthday prayer and thanksgiving meeting with some members of the ICT media in his Ikoyi residence at the weekend, Ekeh said he was overwhelmed by the deluge of good wishes from Nigerians different regions.

Ekeh reflected on his relationship with President Tinubu over the past decades, describing Tinubu as a trustworthy and loyal friend who does not hesitate to make sacrifices for the good of the people he leads.

“President Tinubu has been my supporter long before I launched Zinox. He has always shown brotherly love,” he recalled.

He mentioned Mr. Sam Amuka, publisher of Vanguard newspapers; Lt. General T.Y Danjuma (retd), Founder, South Atlantic Petroleum; and Pa Obafemi Awolowo’s family as some of the many Nigerians with established companies who “experienced me and trusted me in the early days of my business life, and I didn’t disappoint”.

Recounting how Nigerians celebrated him on his birthday, he said: “In all my years, I have never seen such a show of love from Nigerians via different communications channels, from calls to social media. I was deeply touched by the kindred spirit of Nigerians. It tells me one thing: Nigerians are caring and loving people, and they appreciate quality and value-driven impact.

“I want to use this medium to say ‘thank you’ to those who sent me messages of goodwill, prayers through different communication platforms that I could not immediately acknowledge. I appreciate you all,” he said.

It will be recalled that President Tinubu while celebrating Ekeh on his birthday described him as one of “Nigeria’s pioneering innovators in the information technology sector.”

The President also commended Ekeh for his “commitment to promoting the Nigerian brand and creating opportunities for young Nigerians,” amongst his other achievements in the tech sector.

President Obasanjo, accompanied by his wife, Chief (Mrs.) Bola Obasanjo, who visited Ekeh to pray for him, described Ekeh as a “very kind man and an achiever who inspired many youths at a critical point in Nigeria’s information technology history.”

He also prayed for the Zinox Group boss to live for 100 years and beyond.

As a sitting President, Obasanjo honoured Ekeh as an Icon of Hope and a role model for Nigerian youths on October 1st, 2001, and subsequently with the national honour of the Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR).

Others who joined Obasanjo in honouring Ekeh were former Lagos state governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola and his wife, former INEC Chairman, Professor Maurice Iwu and his wife, Chairman of MTN, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe and his wife; Mr. Atedo Peterside, Founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank and his wife; Chairman of Fidelity Bank, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu and her husband; Managing Director Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; Mr. Udoma Udo-Udoma, Chairman Seplat Energy and his wife; Mr. Sam Amuka; Prof Anya O. Anya; Mr. Chris Uwaje, tech policy expert and his wife; Mr. John Momoh, Chairman of Channels Media Group and his wife; Mr and Mrs Walter, CEO of Providus bank, Mr. Roosevelt Ogbonna, group CEO of Access bank, Mrs. Victoria Ajayi, CEO of TVC  Communications and her husband; Mrs. Nkeiru Anumudu, CEO of Globe Motors, secondary school mates of Ekeh including Charles Oputa (Charly Boy) who came with his wife; Leo Stan’s elder brother HRM Eze George Ekeh (aka Saint George), the traditional ruler Ishi Ubomiri Autonomous Community in Imo state;  representatives of multinationals with whom  he has partnered all through the years;  among other distinguished Nigerians and foreigners.

The thanksgiving gathering was held at Ekeh’s residence and was organised by his wife and children, with opening prayer led by Reverend Father Francis Ike of the Church of Assumption, Falomo, Ikoyi. Obasanjo attended with his wife.

Speaking at the event, Obasanjo described Ekeh as “an achiever and a very kind man who deserves to be celebrated.” He said Ekeh was among those who took advantage of opportunities created during his administration between 1999 and 2007.

According to him, it is one thing to create opportunities and another to identify and use them. He said Ekeh was one of the people whose success made it possible for others to credit his government with encouraging investment and wealth creation.

Obasanjo said he was proud of Ekeh’s achievements and urged Nigerians to continue seeking opportunities despite economic challenges. He added jokingly that Ekeh would celebrate 80, 90 and 100 years, drawing laughter from guests.

Also present at the event was veteran journalist and Vanguard publisher Sam Amuka. Former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola attended with his wife.

Other dignitaries included former INEC Chairman Professor Maurice Iwu; Chairman of MTN, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe; Founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank, Mr. Atedo Peterside; Chairman of Fidelity Bank, Mrs. Amaka Onwughalu; Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe; and Chairman of Seplat Energy, Mr. Udoma Udo-Udoma.

Secondary school classmates of Ekeh, including entertainer Charles Oputa, were also in attendance. Ekeh’s elder brother, HRM Eze George Ekeh, traditional ruler of Ishi Ubomiri Autonomous Community in Imo State, performed traditional rites welcoming him into the community’s elders’ circle.

In his remarks, Ekeh thanked Obasanjo for his support over the years and described him as a leader who created room for entrepreneurs to grow. He said he attributed his success to faith, discipline and trust.

Ekeh recalled starting his career as a mass servant and chorister. He said he chose early in life not to drink alcohol or smoke and has kept to that decision. He also spoke about starting his technology business with his school fees at a time when the sector was still developing in his home state.

He said trust and integrity had guided his business decisions and helped him build credibility with partners and institutions.

Ekeh also acknowledged the support of his wife, describing her as a key pillar in his personal and professional life.

Instead of hosting a lavish celebration to mark his milestone birthday, Ekeh is committing to fund 1,000 university scholarships for indigent Nigerian students to study Computer Science in federal universities across the country.

The initiative, he says, is designed to build a new generation of tech-driven leaders who can strengthen Nigeria’s public and private sector competitiveness.

According to Ekeh, the beneficiaries “who will not be bonded, shall disrupt global wealth equation in favour of Nigeria and defend our tech independence.”

Selection criteria and structure

Selection for the scholarship will be based on a nationwide assessment of minimum Intelligent Quotient (IQ) and age.

The programme targets students from poor homes and families whose parents earn below Government Level 10 or its equivalent in the private sector.

Beyond tuition support, the initiative is structured as a holistic development pipeline. Beneficiaries will be exposed to global standards, mentorship, and multi-disciplinary learning beyond core technology studies.

Speaking in a phone interview, Ekeh said:

“Each shall have a tech mentor from year one, as I plan a partnership with Computer Society of Nigeria and every vocation they shall be engaged resourcefully. Beneficiaries shall be from poor homes and those with parents who earn below Government Level 10 and its equivalent in the private sector.

The first batch starts this September, and I expect each to earn first class degree. This is my Group of companies’ and my little way of appreciating my country, individuals and corporates that gave us the opportunities in the last 40 years and still patronizing our Tech Group, Task Systems, TD Africa, Zinox Technologies, Konga etc. If we are successful with this spiritual mandate, I can then celebrate my 100 years on earth with a bang. With God and AI, I am aiming to make 120 years.”

Why Ekeh believes Nigeria must act now

Ekeh, who has largely avoided elaborate birthday celebrations in the past, says the decision aligns with his long-standing belief that technology remains Nigeria’s most realistic pathway to economic transformation.

“We need quality and tech-savvy wiz-kids who can drive the future of government and e-governance and those who will become change-makers in the private sector,” he said.

He warned that Nigeria risks technological dependency if it fails to deliberately build indigenous talent capable of managing the anticipated expansion in oil and gas, banking, agriculture, manufacturing, mining, entertainment, and the public sector over the next decade.

“I have been blessed and bruised in this country and I thank God. Frankly, I don’t see enough Nigerian tech wiz-kids who can defend the massive development anticipated in the next 5 – 10 years… We are becoming slaves in our own country in a knowledge century which is unfortunate.

…only four God-anointed tech wiz-kids can alter the GDP of this country in five years. The man who controls your tech resources decides your profit level and how far your country and corporations can grow in this second quarter of the 21st Century and in future.”

The tech entrepreneur, who was decorated as “Icon of Hope” by former President Olusegun Obasanjo in 2003, added:

“The future is here but very fragile and disruptive, it’s either you are something or nothing at all. No middle ground. We need to alter the digital trajectories of our people. Technology is realistically the only profession in the world today that can alter the destiny of brilliant and humble kids from poor families and position them as huge wealth creators and sustainers.

Though I am not really from a very poor family, but I am a testimony and shall tell the whole story in my book that shall be published last quarter of 2027. It shall be most revealing.

This is my additional contribution amongst others to appreciate Nigerians, the Federal Government, sub- nationals and corporations that have been supporting my tech commitments and innovations on this side of the Atlantic.”

Cost implications and long-term commitment

On the financial commitment required to execute the project, Ekeh described it as “a spirit-driven project.”

“It is a spirit-driven project to thank those who supported and are still supporting companies within the Zinox Group. It has an annual cost that shall run into billions of Naira and my group is committed to it amongst other social responsibility projects like TD Africa Project to produce 10,000 female tech experts out of which 400 have graduated and are fully employed in different corporates in Nigeria. This is a 10-year project with other perks. The full package shall be revealed online on April 22, 2026.”

The scholarship scheme adds to a portfolio of human capital development initiatives undertaken by Ekeh and the Zinox Group over the past four decades.

His companies have trained over 3,000 Nigerians and donated tech centres to more than 25 institutions nationwide.

Through the Leo Stan Ekeh Foundation (LSEF) and affiliated companies, the group has also launched entrepreneurship centres at St. Augustine University, Epe; Federal University, Birnin Kebbi; and Imo State University (IMSU), among others. These centres focus on upskilling young Nigerians, providing stipends, mentorship, digital devices, and in some cases, interest-free loans to support business take-off.

A philosophy of capitalism with empathy

Ekeh, a devout Catholic from Ubomiri in Imo State and former mass servant and chorister, has consistently drawn a distinction between profit and purpose.

He believes capitalism must wear a human face and often reiterates that no one comes into the world with cash nor leaves with it.

At the dedication of a church he built in his hometown, he reflected on his journey:

“I come from a lineage of people who served God dedicatedly. I think I am a miracle child… I saw myself as an only Child even though I have siblings and, as an orphan even though my parents were alive… so I decided to take the pain before pleasure alone.

I love God and will never hesitate to do anything in the service of God and humanity… As a mark of God’s mercy to me, I pay corporate tithes for all my companies. I didn’t read it in the Bible but I do it.”

He once told journalists:

“God is the architect of my success… As an entrepreneur, I have strategised, stayed up late, made projections but if there was no mercy of God and His grace to help me implement these, there will be no success… I work an average of 20 hours a day and near zero holidays and I have no health challenges.”

The bigger picture

For Ekeh, the 1,000-student scholarship programme is only “a tiny drop in the ocean” of his philanthropic commitments.

However, in the context of Nigeria’s widening digital skills gap and increasing dependence on foreign expertise, the initiative could represent a strategic intervention, one aimed at shifting the country from tech consumption to tech sovereignty.

As Nigeria grapples with AI disruption and global economic realignment, Ekeh’s 70th birthday may ultimately be remembered less for the age milestone and more for the human capital investment he hopes will outlive him.

During a recent visit to Save A Life Mission Hospital in Port Harcourt, a health institution that has redefined medical standards in Nigeria and has captured the attention and admiration of many for its world-class standards and innovative integration of technology into healthcare delivery.

Speaking to journalists during his visit, Ekeh revealed that on the invitation of Dr. Richard Okoye, he had tried to schedule a visit for over two years but was constrained by time.

“When I finally stepped in, I knew this was no ordinary hospital,” he remarked. “Once you enter, you find an ecosystem built on innovation, technology, and passion for saving lives. With innovative ideas from hospitals like Save A Life, AI and God, I am confident I will live up to 120 years.” I live a healthy lifestyle and hardly fall ill. However, my experience today has profoundly strengthened my belief that our nation possesses global capacity to define its future, all while trusting in God”.

Ekeh’s praise for Save A Life Mission Hospital was unequivocal. Despite acknowledging that the building’s exterior might not immediately reflect its capabilities, he emphasized that the interior houses world-class technology and medical equipment that rivals international standards.

“This hospital operates with an integrated database system and competes favourably with global healthcare institutions,” he noted, highlighting the facility’s commitment to technological excellence.

Save A Life Mission Hospital is today regarded as one of Nigeria’s foremost digitally advanced healthcare institutions.

While many other health facilities across the country still depend on conventional practices, Dr Richard C. Okoye, the chairman of Save A Life Group, has designed a hospital fully powered by technology.

Every detail, from patient records to diagnostics, is integrated into a seamless digital database, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and reliability comparable with top hospitals in Europe and America.

Ekeh described Dr. Okoye as a “miracle doctor,” not simply because of his medical expertise, but for his unwavering commitment to solving Nigeria’s healthcare challenges through innovation. According to him, the hospital’s digital systems can improve health outcomes by over 60% while eliminating inefficiencies that drive Nigerians abroad for medical care.

Dr. Okoye has consistently emphasized that the future of healthcare in Nigeria requires more than building physical infrastructure; it demands the digitalization of healthcare solutions. True to his philosophy, Dr. Okoye has moved beyond rhetoric to action. His company has developed groundbreaking health technology tools that are revolutionizing healthcare delivery across Nigeria.

His team has developed digital tools that replicate the expertise of key healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, pharmacists, lab scientists, radiologists, and physiotherapists.

These innovations can deliver comprehensive healthcare solutions while cutting down on time they spend on routine cases, enabling them to devote greater attention to research and critical medical priorities.

Among the hospital’s cutting-edge innovations is a digital sugar level monitoring system. This tool tracks a patient’s glucose levels and sends instant alerts to consultants for timely intervention.

What makes these innovations particularly remarkable is their accessibility and cultural sensitivity. They function effectively in rural areas with limited or no medical doctors and unreliable power supply.

Furthermore, they operate in local languages including Yoruba, Igbo, and Hausa, ensuring that language barriers don’t prevent Nigerians from accessing quality healthcare.

Ekeh’s visit reinforced his belief in Nigeria’s untapped potential.

“Nigerians can lead anywhere in the world,” he asserted.

He emphasized that with common sense and technology, the country possesses all the capacity needed for success.

His optimism extends to his personal longevity expectations, believing he will witness Nigeria’s transformation into a thriving nation during his anticipated 120-year lifespan.

Save A Life Mission Hospital embodies more than a medical facility; it represents a blueprint for the future of healthcare in Nigeria.

Under Dr. Okoye’s visionary guidance, it stands as the nation’s foremost digitalized hospital, proving that world-class medical services are both achievable and sustainable on Nigerian soil.

This pioneering model serves as a compelling call to action, urging corporate organizations, as well as federal, state, and local governments, to partner with Save A life to deliver quality, cost-efficient healthcare to citizens nationwide.

His remarks struck a chord with participants as he called on the Federal Government to prioritize affordable electricity for educational and research institutions across the country.

Ekeh emphasized that unreliable and costly power supply remains one of the greatest obstacles limiting innovation, digital adoption, and the competitiveness of Nigerian institutions.

He urged the government to consider targeted subsidies for universities, polytechnics, and research centres to ensure that young Nigerians have uninterrupted access to the digital tools and infrastructure required to compete in a knowledge-driven economy.

He noted that less than 5% of educational institutions nationwide can afford to power their campuses for even six hours a day, while the cost of electricity from PHCN remains very high for effective digital learning.

Under such conditions, he questioned how under-resourced knowledge workers can access global content online to teach students.

He stressed that interventions of this nature are urgently required to improve the quality of graduates we expect to compete as global citizens.

According to him, even students and lecturers who have managed to acquire digital learning tools often go for weeks without being able to recharge their devices due to the absence of electricity.

Beyond power, the Zinox Chairman also touched on broader critical issues, including the urgent need to strengthen local manufacturing, deepen digital literacy, and incentivize private sector partnerships that can fast-track Nigeria’s technological growth.

His call resonated with the conference theme, “Intelligent, Secure and Sustainable Innovation for a Connected World,” as he reminded stakeholders that no nation can achieve true digital transformation without deliberate domestic investment in human capital and infrastructure.

“At Zinox, we have nothing to prove. We have been taking a lot of pains to uphold global standards, as demonstrated by our critical global certifications. I confidently vouch for all products supplied by the Zinox Group. We are fully equipped, both technically and financially, to support our corporations and governments at all levels in this digital race powered by AI. This is the only way Africa can take a leadership role; otherwise, we risk being permanently marginalized on the global stage.”

“The next five years are critical for Nigeria’s emergence as one of the leading nations. If we combine common sense with technology, along with our large population, we can ensure that wealth becomes a right for over 75% of Nigerians. Investing in tech businesses is currently the most cost-effective and sustainable option, and the returns are sure to be highly rewarding,” he concluded.

His message set the tone for robust conversations at the conference and highlighted the role of industry leaders, government, and academia in shaping a sustainable technology ecosystem for Nigeria’s future.

Think about this: Tinubu wants to grow Nigeria’s net worth to a $1 trillion economy by 2030. While this shows ambition, it is much more a demonstration of audacity in leadership.

To achieve this, Tinubu says Nigeria must lean on and encourage local production. He believes that achieving food security is the sine qua non for advancing the nation’s economy through heavy investments in the agriculture value chain. He is pushing a Nigeria First, Buy-Nigeria policy. Some of his ministers and appointees are also singing the same local production hymn.

A quick fact-check shows that this is not new, especially since the commencement of the 4th Republic. President Olusegun Obasanjo, it has to be emphasised, laid a solid foundation to promote indigenous production of goods and services.

He did not chime Buy Nigeria, he lived it, implemented it and the results were profound. The results of Obasanjo’s Buy Nigeria policy manifested in diverse ways. Local patronage of indigenous fruit drinks and ban on imported ones; local production of airtime cards for GSM service providers; local patronage of locally assembled computers that gave a huge boost to local production of the same, such that some ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) standardised their IT operations on indigenous computer hardware and software.

Sadly, despite the traction gained by indigenous products, the succeeding governments did not even sustain the Buy-Nigeria momentum.

Tinubu seems determined to do so. However, to achieve the noble ambition of a $1 trillion economy, President Tinubu must listen to key Nigerians who are not only employers of labour but are deeply committed to indigenous production as the key to unlocking the huge potential of the nation’s economy.

One of such Nigerians Tinubu must take heed to his advice is Aliko Dangote, the President of Dangote Group whose refinery is the biggest single infrastructure project in Africa. Dangote, a major indigenous manufacturer, is not happy with the manner local companies are treated in Nigeria.

Dangote recently advocated for policies that protect indigenous industries and nurture them into mega corporations capable of generating jobs and fostering prosperity.

Addressing a gathering of manufacturers and investors in Abuja recently while delivering a keynote on ‘Rethinking Manufacturing in Nigeria’ at the Nigeria Manufacturers’ Summit, Dangote advocated a reversal of government policies that expose local players to vulnerabilities including continued importation of goods and services that are also produced in Nigeria. Such a lack of protection of indigenous players, usually in the form of a lack of patronage from the government and Nigerians, stunts the growth of these local players.

He cited countries where governments had to take drastic measures to protect their respective local markets.

These include the blocked sale of US steel to Nippon Steel of Japan, the blocked sale of six US port management companies to Dubai Ports World, restrictions on Chinese cranes at US ports, and the US imposition of tariffs such as 100% on Chinese EVs (electric vehicles), 50% on semiconductors, medical products, and solar panels.

There are other instances, including the restriction of Russia gas supply to Europe, which led European countries to increase coal usage despite opposition to fossil fuels; and the US government’s distribution of $39 billion in subsidies to incentivise local microchip production.

The above cases clearly show how respective governments deliberately protect their local players, not only to give them a head-start over competition but also to help them scale up on the path to profitability. Nigerian governments have been short on this.

Leo Stan Ekeh, chairman of Zinox Group, an African ICT unicorn, is yet another voice Tinubu should give ears to.

Ekeh, much like Dangote and others, has been a victim of serial blackmail and corporate bullying despite his undeniable sacrifice to create a digital culture in the Nigerian marketplace including education, media, banking, oil and gas, agriculture and other aspects of the economy.

His Computerise Nigeria project became the cornerstone for the establishment of digital hubs in the nation’s tertiary institutions.

Ekeh believes that achieving a $1 trillion economy is possible but stressed that the current state of power delivery nationwide (an average of 4 hours per day according to the latest NBS data) cannot support the type of bullish industrialisation and local production that will bolster the nation’s economic trajectory to the trillion-dollar mark.

He warned that a situation where genuine players in local production and service delivery are bullied and blackmailed by unscrupulous private sector fringe players and public sector operators does not bode well for economic growth.

He urges more protection from government for the progressive and proven indigenous companies. He says the concept of Buy-Nigeria should be enforced, especially among MDAs.

While expressing confidence in President Tinubu’s ability to address the issue of blackmail, he suggested that Tinubu should aggressively pursue a policy that promotes patronage of indigenous manufacturers and service providers as a way of reflating the economy.

He said:

“It is evident that the core of the myriad challenges afflicting the nation today is our failure to develop local capacities. We must embrace self-sufficiency by consuming what we produce and supporting indigenous players across various sectors.”

He regretted that in spite of several local content policies established by the Federal Government, such policies are consistently disregarded by government employees and appointees, wondering why “we send our children to the world’s best institutions, where they excel, yet we overlook the products they create.”

He gave the example of the government of India, which effective November 1, 2023, placed restrictions on the importation of laptops, tablets, all-in-one personal computers and ultra-small computers and servers with immediate effect.

This, according to him, was to boost local productivity both by multinationals operating in India and indigenous Indian companies to create more jobs, encourage proficiency, and discourage capital flight.

“Mr. President, I humbly appeal to you to be deliberate and decisive in encouraging indigenous producers and service providers across all sectors. This way, we create a market for indigenous products, build confidence in our economy and easily attract international investors. The way we treat our local investors will determine how many foreign investors we can attract,” he stated in an open letter to the President earlier this year. The voices of Dangote and Ekeh echo the voices of other indigenous players who have continued to deliver value amid vicious headwinds.

Speaking at the inaugural Domestic Investors Summit in Abuja recently, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, reaffirmed Tinubu’s determination to achieve the trillion-dollar economy.

She outlined targets for 2025, including $6 billion in foreign direct and portfolio investment, $6.5 billion in non-oil exports, a 20 per cent increase in trade value, and the creation of 200,000 export-led jobs.

This is grand. But the major pulley that will drive this growth is the recommendation of Dangote, Ekeh, and other indigenous players, which is that the government should, as a priority, protect local investors and entrepreneurs through patronage, a policy shift that encourages growth, and categorising such investors’ assets as national assets deserving of preservation.

*Gaya, a public policy analyst, writes from Kano.

The donation, presented at a brief ceremony, is earmarked specifically to support Nigerian men battling prostate conditions, a growing but often overlooked health crisis in the country.

The philanthropist and tech visionary, who described the donation as a “token and first installment,” revealed a personal connection to the Foundation’s founder, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy or Area Fada, saying they both attended Holy Ghost College, Owerri, where Ekeh was Charles Oputa’s junior.

He further urged him to step back from activism, which he had been involved in for many years, and to focus instead on the foundation, an endeavour he now considers a spiritual assignment. He also assured him of his continued support.

Alongside the monetary support, Mr. Ekeh also donated a large supply of catheter kits, vital emergency tools often needed by men suffering from prostate-related complications.

This practical support is expected to go a long way in assisting underprivileged men who cannot afford basic medical supplies.

These kits are also a reflection of Mr. Ekeh’s broader vision to tackle societal problems using technology, a hallmark of his philanthropic and entrepreneurial pursuits.

Reacting emotionally to the gesture, Charles Oputa said, “I had my own challenge with prostate. I’ve gone through two surgeries. To me, this Foundation is not just charity; it’s a spiritual journey. I want men to have the information, the tools, and the support I didn’t have. This is about saving lives. Thank you”.

The Charly Boy Foundation, started by the iconic entertainer and activist, is dedicated to raising awareness about prostate health, funding medical treatments, and educating Nigerian men on prevention and early detection.

With Mr. Oputa’s personal experience and passion driving the mission, the Foundation is quickly becoming a critical voice in men’s health advocacy in Nigeria.

Medical experts have long warned that prostate cancer and other prostate-related issues are on the rise in Nigeria, yet public awareness and early testing remain low, often due to stigma, ignorance, or lack of access to care.

The Foundation hopes to reverse this trend through outreach, partnerships, and donor support.

With this high-profile donation, Mr. Ekeh has not only ignited momentum for the Foundation’s work but also sent a powerful message to other well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organizations: Men’s health matter.

This timeless wisdom speaks to the far-reaching foresight of elders and pioneers whose quiet convictions and brave steps shape futures others have yet to imagine.

Often, it is on the solid foundation of their sacrifices that newer generations advance.

Nigeria’s flourishing digital ecosystem owes a profound debt to such visionary architects, individuals who, with unwavering resolve, laid the first stones for the technological advancements the nation now builds upon.

Among these titans stands Leo Stan Ekeh, the Chairman of Zinox Group, a name synonymous with pioneering spirit and an enduring belief in Nigeria’s latent potential.

His narrative, punctuated by pivotal decisions and unwavering commitment, offers invaluable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs who recently gathered to glean wisdom from his extensive experience.

Ekeh’s journey, far from being a linear ascent, is a testament to the power of conviction in the face of formidable odds. While responding to questions from participants, he laid bare the purpose and challenges of his entrepreneurial journey.

Ekeh’s trajectory into the annals of Africa’s tech pioneers began with a defining moment of conviction. Upon graduating from the University of Punjab in India, he headed to Cork City University, Ireland for a post graduate study in Computer science, Ekeh was presented with enticing offers from globally renowned corporations, including the allure of Silicon Valley giant Apple.

However, his compass pointed homeward, driven by a compelling vision:

“To build and create faith in our digital economy and, crucially, to equip the next generation with the requisite capacity to navigate the impending digital storm”.

This decision, eschewing immediate personal gain for a long-term national aspiration, demonstrated his ability to see opportunities where others saw obstacles.

Ekeh’s transformative influence began early in his career when he pioneered the modernization of Nigeria’s media and multi-media industry.

He revolutionized operations at major publishing houses, including University Press, Longman, Daily Times, Punch, and Vanguard, just to mention a few and introduced Desktop Publishing and Computer Graphics technologies that fundamentally changed how Nigerian media houses operated.

His contributions to the advertising sector established foundations that would later support Nigeria’s burgeoning creative economy.

His strategic acumen manifested in his ability to attract and solidify partnerships with global tech firms. Through his persistent efforts and unwavering vision, Nigeria today boasts a significant presence of leading Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs), including the likes of HP, Microsoft, Apple, Starlink, IBM, Dell Technologies, Amazon, Cisco, Lenovo, APC by Schneider Electric, Samsung, Bosch, Philips, Logitech, and Vivo, among others. This influx of global players has not only injected technological expertise and investment into the Nigerian market but has also created a more competitive and innovative environment. All these my generation now enjoys the fruits of.

Perhaps one of Ekeh’s most significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic process was his role in transitioning the country from analogue to digital democracy as early as 2006. In 2010, he delivered the biggest single ICT digital rollout in Africa through his partnership with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

This massive technological deployment brought a level of sanity to Nigeria’s electoral process despite the political machinations that often characterize the country’s democratic exercises. His company, Zinox Technologies, executed a similar project in Guinea Bissau.

Beyond electoral systems, Ekeh’s technological innovations extended to Nigeria’s energy sector. Not only did he pioneer the deployment of digital dispensing pumps for petrol and gas stations across Nigeria, but he also provided crucial technical backbone support for multinational corporations like Shell, Chevron, Total, CBN, etc deploying hundreds of professional engineers to ensure seamless operations for these industry giants.

His impact transcends Nigeria’s borders. In Gambia, Ekeh delivered the largest single e-Library and Wireless Cloud rollout project, demonstrating his commitment to advancing digital infrastructure across the African continent.

Today, Ekeh’s influence extends far beyond the ICT sector, as the Zinox Group has evolved into a global conglomerate with diversified interests spanning e-commerce, real estate, pharmaceuticals, entertainment, and more. His indelible mark remains etched upon the technological landscape of Africa. Despite encountering significant challenges, enduring substantial losses, and weathering various forms of blackmail from which he emerged victorious, Ekeh remained steadfast in his belief in Nigeria’s inherent possibilities.

Nigeria now boasts hundreds of thriving tech businesses and a growing digital economy. In the 1990s, Nigeria’s digital economy was virtually non-existent, with telecommunications penetration below 0.5% and internet access limited to a few elite institutions. In 2024, ICT contributed over 19.78% to GDP, driven by 163 million internet users, a thriving fintech ecosystem processing ₦611 trillion in transactions in 2023, and e-commerce growth exceeding $13 billion annually. Nigeria’s digital economy now boasts a staggering valuation of $700 billion.

Besides building faith in our economy, Ekeh has developed human capital. His businesses have championed initiatives to nurture the next generation of tech professionals.

During the graduation ceremony of 400 female tech professionals in March this year, he unveiled an ambitious plan to produce over 10,000 female tech professionals in the next five years. This move is poised to bridge gender gaps in a sector historically dominated by men.

Ekeh’s influence is etched into the very fabric of Nigeria’s tech evolution. His path from turning down offers from Silicon Valley to creating a domestic tech company is a shining example of visionary leadership.

Today, as Nigeria reaps the benefits of a rapidly growing digital economy, it is clear that the groundwork was laid by pioneers like him, who saw tomorrow’s possibilities long before they materialized.

As Nigeria strides into an era of unprecedented technological advancement, the lessons from Ekeh’s journey remain indispensable: see beyond the immediate, build with purpose, and always prepare the next generation for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

His advice to young entrepreneurs is particularly poignant: remain focused and avoid being distracted by some respected individuals who, through their corrupt deeds, act against the country’s best interests.

True patriotism, he emphasizes, lies in building systems that serve the nation’s long-term prosperity rather than personal gain.

This transformation was powerfully underscored at the Enugu Tech Festival, a landmark event organized by the Enugu State Government through the Ministry of Science and Technology under the leadership of Commissioner Dr. Prince Lawrence Ezeh.

Themed “From Coal to Code,” the festival marked a bold shift from legacy industries to a future powered by innovation.

The event featured a constellation of industry leaders including Dr. Peter Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State; Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy; Mr. Ayodele Olawande, Minister of Youth Development; Prof. Bart Nnaji, Founder/Chairman Geometric Power; Dr. Kingsley Eze, CEO Tenece Holdings; Dr. Obinna Iyiegbu, Chairman Cubana Group; Tomi Davies, CiC at TVC Labs, among others.

Among the luminaries who graced the event was Africa’s celebrated digital disruptor, Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group.

His presence alone electrified the audience, but it was his electrifying speech that sealed the moment.

Drawing from his over three decades journey of pioneering success in Africa’s tech ecosystem, Dr. Ekeh captivated the audience with hard truths and inspirational insights on entrepreneurship, resilience, and the boundless potential of technology when deployed ethically.

“Hope is not a strategy in the 21st century,” he told the captivated audience. It was a sharp reminder that while optimism is valuable, it must be matched by concrete skills and bold execution. In a world dominated by algorithms, artificial intelligence, and disruptive innovation, he said success belongs to those who dare to act and build decisively.

The ovation that followed his address revealed the fire he had lit in the hearts of young tech enthusiasts present.

He charged them to use technology not just to make a living but to change lives. “Tech,” he declared, “has the power to redefine Enugu, Nigeria, and Africa — but only if we approach it with purpose.”

Everyone who spoke before and after echoed the same rallying cry: tomorrow begins now. The Minister for Youth Development, Mr. Olawande, characterized the event as the largest youth gathering for a technology-focused program.

He further praised the organizers and reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to youth empowerment.

In his speech, the executive governor of Enugu state stated that his government has set a bold target of growing its economy from $4.4 billion to $30 billion in eight years through a 27% annual growth rate.

Initiatives like this tech festival are strategic steps toward that vision, positioning Enugu as a hub for business tourism, innovation, and inclusive prosperity.

But for this dream to materialize, all stakeholders must act. Our future will match our imagination, only if we dare to build it.

The Nigeria we want will depend not on hope, but on action.

Under the theme, ‘Advancing Innovation for a Sustainable Future,’ senior executives from both organizations convened to explore collaborative opportunities aimed at promoting technological transformation and sustainable energy solutions within tertiary institutions nationwide.

The high-level delegation from Zinox, comprising members of its executive management team, was led by Leo Stan Ekeh, the chairman.

Representing TETFUND in the discussions was Sonny Echono, the executive secretary, along with his top management team.

The highlight of the visit was the establishment of a strategic partnership between Zinox Technologies and TETFUND to provide renewable energy solutions to universities and polytechnics across Nigeria.

Additionally, Mrs. Kelechi Eze-Okonta, Zinox managing director, delivered a comprehensive, world-class presentation on the company’s diverse verticals and advanced ICT services, underscoring the need for intentional policy measures to support indigenous technologies for sustainable economic growth.

The TETFUND team expressed their appreciation for Zinox’s contributions to technology awareness, implementation, and adoption in Africa.

Sonny Echono, the ES of TETFUND, conveyed his deep appreciation for the visit by the Zinox team.

He commended Dr. Leo Stan Ekeh for his unwavering and impactful contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation, and that efforts are underway to establish a framework for effective energy solutions in tertiary institutions.

Highlighting Zinox Technologies’ expertise and proven track record, Echono expressed optimism about partnering with the company to develop scalable and efficient power solutions for academic institutions.

While both organizations remain committed to implementing innovative initiatives that enhance institutional capacity across the nation’s higher education sector, the visit marks a significant milestone in establishing a strategic partnership to equip Nigeria’s tertiary institutions with the essential technological infrastructure for a sustainable, digitally-driven future.