Yuhuai (Tony) Wu announced late on Monday night that he was leaving the company. “It’s time for my next chapter,” Wu wrote in a post on X. 

“It is an era with full possibilities: a small team armed with AIs can move mountains and redefine what’s possible.”

Less than 24 hours later, Jimmy Ba followed. In his own post on Tuesday afternoon, Ba thanked Musk and said he would remain close to the company. 

“Enormous thanks to @elonmusk for bringing us together on this incredible journey. So proud of what the xAI team has done and will continue to stay close as a friend of the team,” the post read in part.

Neither Wu nor Ba explained their reasons for leaving or outlined their next steps. Both departures were publicly cordial. Ba, who reported directly to Musk, did not respond to a request for comment sent via X messaging.

The exits mean six of xAI’s original 12 co-founders have now left the company since 2024. Infrastructure lead Kyle Kosic departed for OpenAI in mid-2024. 

He was followed by former Google researcher Christian Szegedy in February 2025. Igor Babuschkin left in August to start a venture firm, while Greg Yang, previously at Microsoft, stepped down last month due to health reasons.

The Financial Times reported that Ba’s resignation followed challenges within xAI’s technical team over demands to improve the performance of its Grok chatbot, as Musk pushes to close the gap with competitors such as OpenAI and Anthropic.

We were unable to independently confirm those internal discussions.

The co-founders’ departures come days after SpaceX announced it would acquire xAI in a deal that values the combined company at $1.25 trillion, with plans to list later this year. 

The transaction is part of Musk’s goal to expand computing capacity, including proposals to place data centres in orbit to support future workloads.

xAI’s flagship product, Grok, has faced complaints in recent months for erratic behaviour and signs of internal tampering. 

Separate changes to the company’s image-generation tools also led to a surge in deepfake pornography on the platform, triggering legal and regulatory attention.

The post xAI Co-Founders Tony Wu and Jimmy Ba Resign Ahead of IPO appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Even with a rebound of nearly 25% in the second half, the continent still couldn’t meet up, largely because digital access is tangled in complexity and misaligned systems that don’t always reflect how Africans live and work.

Consider that 61% of sub-Saharan Africans live within broadband coverage but do not use it. Not because the internet is absent, but because access is limited by poor localisation affordability, digital illiteracy, friction-filled user journeys and at times, poor design.

That’s the battlefield where Jecinta Fabiyi has pitched her tent. For her, design is about ensuring access, trust, and opportunity in a region where the gap between technology and people can feel like a canyon. She has built her career around one core conviction, which is: technology must be human before it can be powerful.

So, when Fabiyi was named a Global Tech Hero by The Connected Awards, it was not a polite nod to another rising designer. It was a recognition of impact that is both statistical and human. The Awards, known for immortalising professionals who embody craft, impact, and legacy, singled her out as someone who consistently changes complexity into clarity.

The Making of a Hero

At Youverify, a Lagos-and San Francisco–based identity verification startup, Jecinta Fabiyi designed YouverifyOS (YVOS), a compliance and verification platform now powering over 5 million identity verification processes. 

Through the simplification of KYC, KYB, and AML compliance into intuitive digital flows, she directly contributed to Youverify’s scale from 400 million to over 2 billion identities verified.

Her design of vFORM, a drag-and-drop onboarding tool, went further. What could have been another clunky enterprise form-builder became a seamless experience for businesses onboarding customers. The results?

• 300% increase in Youverify’s customer base, spreading across more than 400 banks and startups in Africa.
• 1,000% surge in application volumes, making identity verification almost routine for financial services and ride-hailing companies.
• A direct link to Youverify’s $1M seed extension funding, proving that design can, quite literally, drive investment.

These reveal how Fabiyi’s work answers one of Africa’s biggest problems: the trust deficit in digital finance and identity. In a continent where over 30 countries now enforce KYC/AML regulations, her designs are helping businesses keep pace without losing customers to bureaucracy.

Beyond Compliance: Human Impact

But Fabiyi’s influence isn’t limited to compliance dashboards. At Sidekick Health, she helped redesign the Zanadio obesity treatment platform, where patients were abandoning onboarding before accessing therapy. 

Her work simplified the funnel and reduced friction, leading to a 10% increase in visitor-to-signup conversions and a 12% growth in signups-to-activation. These numbers translate into something no spreadsheet can fully capture, more patients accessing life-changing treatment.

At Wunder Mobility, she shaped fleet management dashboards and rider experiences that made shared transport more reliable and scalable. In a continent struggling with urban congestion, such design work nudges cities closer to sustainable mobility.

Recognition Rooted in Impact

Her recognition as “Woman in Tech of the Week” by The Stack Journal and her feature in Daily Times Nigeria did not come from rhetoric but from measurable results. And now, with her new badge as a Global Tech Hero, she joins a circle of technologists celebrated for what they build and how their work ripples across communities.

The Connected Awards describe their honourees as “leaders whose work bridges the gap between complexity and clarity, between people and services, and between potential and lasting impact.” Jecinta Fabiyi fits that description without caveat. She has shown that design is not decoration, it is infrastructure. It determines whether millions of Africans can access services or remain excluded.

More than a Designer

Away from her corporate impact, Jecinta Fabiyi mentors junior designers, supports career switchers, and publishes free resources in the Figma Community, already used by 1,000+ designers. Her talks on accessibility, inclusivity, and design KPIs have equipped professionals to think beyond aesthetics and focus on outcomes. And on LinkedIn and Substack, she shares insights that demystify the tech industry for the next generation of creatives.

Why This is Important 

In African tech, funding is slowing, but adoption is growing. Emerging markets like Uganda (+304% growth in VC funding) and Tanzania (+108%) are proving that the future is not confined to Nigeria, Kenya, Egypt, or South Africa. However, the continent still struggles with high digital drop-off rates, compliance barriers, and trust issues.

This is why Fabiyi’s story is important. She represents a new kind of African tech leader, one who sees design not as the finishing touch but as the foundation. One who treats every interface as a bridge between ambition and reality. And one who insists that technology must include everyone, or it has failed.

As she continues to build products across industries, the Global Tech Hero award can’t be limited in description as a career highlight, but more like a milestone in an ongoing mission, which is to make digital experiences simpler, safer, and more inclusive for millions.

The post How Global Tech Hero Jecinta Fabiyi is Building the Infrastructure African Businesses Need to Scale appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Despite proposing some of the most lucrative packages in Silicon Valley history, the project is finding it difficult to hold on to its star hires.

The Superintelligence lab, launched in April 2025 with the aim of leapfrogging Meta competitors in artificial general intelligence (AGI), has been hit by high-profile departures.

Rishabh Agarwal, recruited from Google DeepMind earlier this year on a reported $1 million salary, announced in late August that he would be leaving after barely five months. 

“It was a tough decision not to continue with the new Superintelligence TBD lab, especially given the talent and compute density. But after 7.5 years across Google Brain, DeepMind, and Meta, I felt the pull to take on a different kind of risk,” Agarwal wrote in a farewell post on X.

He also repeated Zuckerberg’s own words back at him: “In a world that’s changing so fast, the biggest risk you can take is not taking any risk.” The quote has since been widely interpreted as researchers using the Meta chief’s mantra to justify walking away.

Avi Verma and Ethan Knight, both previously with OpenAI, have returned to their former employer after brief stints at MSL. In a further blow, longtime Meta executive Chaya Nayak has also left, joining OpenAI to work on special initiatives.

These issues have led to uncomfortable questions for Meta. If billion-dollar offers cannot retain talent, what can? Insiders point to structural problems: frequent reorganisations, shifting goals, and reports of micromanagement at the top. 

The company recently split its AI staff into four separate groups, creating suspense inside a lab already tasked with one of the most ambitious projects in tech.

Experts say money is not the ultimate driver for the best minds in the field. DeepMind cofounder Demis Hassabis once said frontier researchers want to “help influence how AGI plays out and steward the technology safely into the world” rather than simply chase paycheques. 

Similarly, Anthropic’s cofounder Benjamin Mann said: “My best case at Anthropic is we affect the future of humanity. My best case at Meta is we make money.”

Meanwhile, rivals are capitalising. OpenAI has not only regained former staff but strengthened its bench at a time when it publicly criticised Meta’s aggressive poaching tactics. 

Elon Musk’s xAI is also pulling engineers away from Zuckerberg’s company, with reports noting at least 14 defections this year alone. Unlike Meta’s cash-heavy approach, Musk promotes a performance-driven culture anchored in equity and speed.

Meta has invested heavily in leadership, hiring Scale AI founder Alexandr Wang and former GitHub CEO Nat Friedman to run its AI efforts. But reports of disagreements between Zuckerberg and Wang over timelines for superintelligence highlight deeper tensions. 

Meta’s resources can buy time and talent, but not loyalty or mission alignment.

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Women are still underrepresented in tech leadership, but those who do break through are changing the rules.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, themed Accelerate Action, Techeconomy spoke with Erica Cronan, global director of Marketing at Datadobi, to uncover what it really takes to lead in tech, scale through bias, and drive marketing innovation.

The Journey to the Top: Strategy, Adaptability, and Trust

Erica’s career path wasn’t a straight shot to the C-suite. Instead, it went from experiences across high-tech, sporting goods, financial services, and retail. Each industry refined her ability to think on her feet.

“Key moments that shaped my journey include learning from diverse industries such as high tech, sporting goods, financial services, and retail. These experiences broadened my ability to adapt, be creative, and be resourceful. I have found that each experience has been invaluable in shaping today’s strategic plan.”

Leading a global marketing team means constantly staying ahead of trends, but for Erica, the secret lies in combining insight with agility.

“By engaging with industry reports, thought leaders, and events like tech conferences, I have maintained a pulse on emerging technologies. Our team has a very collaborative culture that provides fresh, innovative perspectives. Analytics allows for data-driven decision-making, ensuring strategies remain proactive and agile.”

But moving from an individual contributor to leadership comes with its own set of growing pains. Trusting others and striking a balance between strategic oversight and laser-sharp focus were key to Erica’s transition.

“Trust is key, as is clear communication and confidence in others’ abilities. You also have to be ultra-focused but strategic at the same time.”

Breaking the Glass Firewall: Women in Tech Leadership

We’ve heard it before—women have to work twice as hard to be seen as competent. But for those navigating male-dominated spaces, survival depends on both resilience and strong alliances.

“Navigating spaces where I was often the only woman required great resilience and adaptability. Building a network of mentors and allies was instrumental in helping me navigate challenges and reminding myself of the value I bring. Over time, and with confidence in my skills, I learned to amplify my voice and make meaningful contributions, even in environments where representation was scarce.”

The industry’s gender gap won’t close on its own, and Erica believes real change requires dismantling ingrained biases. Policies like paid family leave and flexible work arrangements are crucial—but they must come with accountability.

“We need to see more women in leadership roles and take active steps to dismantle the biases that hinder progress. Equitable mentorship programs, sponsorship opportunities, policies like paid family leave, and flexible work arrangements are just the beginning. These initiatives must be paired with accountability measures to ensure real change. By fostering inclusive environments and providing women with the tools and support they need to succeed, we can break barriers and create a more equitable industry for everyone.”

Diversity isn’t just a metric, but a competitive advantage. Companies that want real inclusivity must go beyond tokenism.

“Focus on creating a culture where every voice is valued. Set measurable diversity goals, invest in unconscious bias training, and actively listen to underrepresented voices in decision-making processes. It’s also crucial to create clear pathways for career advancement and professional development, particularly for those in underrepresented groups. By prioritizing these efforts, companies can drive meaningful change and ensure diversity and inclusion are at the heart of their success.”

Marketing in Tech: The Art and Science of Influence

Marketing in tech is a balancing act, between hard data and the softer, human side of storytelling. For Erica, numbers provide direction, but creativity makes an impact.

“For me, data acts as a compass—it provides the insights needed to understand audiences, measure performance, and refine strategies. However, creativity brings a campaign to life and makes it resonate on a personal level. I focus on blending the two by using data to inform and inspire creative decisions rather than dictate them.”

With AI reshaping marketing, personalisation is no longer optional, it’s highly expected. But it’s not just about automation; consumers crave authenticity.

“Personalisation, driven by AI and data analytics, is now essential as consumers demand tailored experiences. Authenticity and purpose are equally crucial, with brands needing to align values with audiences and act meaningfully. Staying relevant requires agility, experimentation, and a focus on genuine connections.”

The Power of Mentorship and Owning Your Value

One of the most overlooked career accelerators? Meaningful mentorship. Erica’s longest-standing mentor has been by her side for years, proving that career growth isn’t just about what you know—it’s also about who helps you grow.

“I look for women whose leadership and values inspire me, whether through industry networks or professional events. My first mentor is still my mentor today. We worked together at several companies, and she taught me the invaluable lesson of creating genuine connections. I love hearing about others’ experiences. I am good at staying in touch, offering support, and expressing gratitude to build trust and mutual growth over time.”

And for those struggling with imposter syndrome? Erica says don’t let it silence you.

“My advice is to trust your abilities and remember that your unique perspective brings immense value to the industry. Many face imposter syndrome, but instead of letting it hold you back, use it as a signal to keep growing and learning. Surround yourself with mentors and allies who inspire and support you, and don’t hesitate to advocate for yourself.”

Finally, Accelerating Action in Tech Leadership

The theme of this year’s International Women’s Day is Accelerate Action, but action doesn’t mean waiting for permission. It means taking up space, demanding equity, and refusing to settle for performative progress.

Being in tech leadership like Erica Cronan means going beyond succeeding in tech, to also rewriting the playbook. And for the next generation of women in tech, the message says the future isn’t waiting for you to fit in. It’s waiting for you to lead.

The post Interview: Erica Cronan Speaks on a Woman’s Guide to Thriving in Tech Leadership appeared first on Tech | Business | Economy.

Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and one of the most populous nations, stands at a technological crossroads.

The nation is home to a burgeoning tech scene characterized by innovative startups, a growing base of internet users, and increasing investment interest from both local and global investors.

However, the path to harnessing the full potential of Nigeria’s tech sector is fraught with unique challenges.

In this discourse, we will explore the multifaceted approaches to tech leadership and management that are requisite for steering Nigeria through the intricacies of the present digital era.

Understanding the Nigerian Context

The first step in leading and managing tech in Nigeria effectively is to understand the socio-economic and political environment within which the tech sector operates.

Despite impressive growth in certain areas, factors such as infrastructural deficiencies, policy uncertainties, talent gaps, and access to capital remain substantial barriers.

Effective tech leaders must possess an in-depth understanding of these challenges and devise innovative strategies to circumvent them.

To lead tech endeavours in Nigeria successfully, one must appreciate the cultural nuances and diversity that influence consumer behaviour and market trends.

A leader must be adept at navigating the complexities of each geo-political zone, respect the heterogeneity, and leverage the strengths vis-à-vis the national vision for technological advancement.

Innovative Leadership Approaches

In light of the diverse challenges, tech leadership in Nigeria demands a mix of innovative approaches. These include but are not limited to the following strategies:

1. Adaptive Leadership

Adaptive leaders are those who can respond quickly to changing technological trends and market dynamics. They ensure their teams are agile, can pivot when necessary, and are always learning.

In a nation like Nigeria, where change is constant, and unpredictability is often the norm, adaptive leadership becomes a crucial trait for a tech leader.

2. Servant Leadership

Servant leadership is characterized by the desire to serve others. In the tech industry, this means prioritizing the development and well-being of team members.

Leaders who empower their teams, encourage participation, and foster an environment of growth and learning will cultivate more effective and dedicated workforces.

3. Visionary Leadership

A visionary leader has a clear, long-term vision for the future of technology in Nigeria and can inspire their team to align with this vision.

In a landscape buzzing with potential yet riddled with obstacles, the ability to paint a compelling picture of what the tech sector can achieve is vital.

4. Ethical Leadership

Ethical leadership is particularly important in a tech world filled with data privacy concerns and the risk of fostering or perpetuating economic and social inequalities.

Nigerian tech leaders must commit to high moral standards and lead by example, fostering a culture of integrity and trustworthiness.

5. Transformational Leadership

Leaders who are transformational inspire team members to exceed their own self-interests for the sake of the company or even the nation’s interests.

These leaders are change agents who are passionate and capable of driving the innovation agenda.

Building a Collaborative Tech Ecosystem

The Nigerian tech ecosystem must be a collaborative network comprising government bodies, educational institutions, private sectors, and the entrepreneurs themselves.

Tech leaders and managers have a pivotal role here to act as facilitators:

1. Government Partnerships

Public-private partnerships can address infrastructural deficits, such as power and high-speed internet, which are crucial for a thriving tech sector.

Leadership involves advocacy and engagement with policymakers to create a favourable regulatory environment that spurs growth and innovation.

2. Educational Synergies

Establishing synergies with educational institutions can ensure that curricula meet the evolving needs of the tech industry, thereby addressing the talent gap.

Leaders should support programs that foster tech skills from a young age and build a pipeline of future innovators and tech experts.

3. Investment in Local Innovation

Supporting local innovation is essential. This involves not only providing funding but also creating mentorship networks, offering business development services, and facilitating access to markets.

4. Embracing Diversity

A leadership that values diversity will harness different perspectives and skills, ultimately leading to more robust problem-solving and creativity in technology solutions. This is particularly salient in a culturally rich and diverse nation like Nigeria.

5. Encouraging a Culture of Continuous Learning

The tech field is rapidly evolving; leaders must foster an environment of continuous learning and improvement.

This could be through professional development opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, or encouraging attendance at conferences and workshops.

6. Strategic Problem-Solving

Tech leaders in Nigeria must be strategic problem solvers able to identify and articulate the core issues facing the tech sector.

They should develop comprehensive strategies to overcome these problems, tapping into global best practices while localizing solutions to fit the Nigerian context.

Operational Excellence through Efficient Management

While leadership is about setting direction, management ensures that the organization can effectively follow that direction. Operational excellence is key in managing tech initiatives:

1. Risk Management

In a volatile technological and business environment, risk management becomes paramount. Tech managers must identify potential risks early, evaluate them, and implement strategies to mitigate them.

2. Agile Project Management

Implementing Agile methodologies improves responsiveness and ensures that products and services are developed in a manner that aligns with customer needs and market changes. Agile project management is instrumental in fostering innovation and achieving faster time-to-market.

3. Leveraging Technology for Management

Utilizing the very technology that is being developed and managed to improve operations is essential. This includes data analytics for informed decision-making, machine learning for operational efficiency, and blockchain for security.

4. Financial Acumen

Skilful financial management is crucial for tech leaders and managers. Understanding the financial implications of tech investments and operations and navigating the world of venture capital and fundraising is integral to the sustainability of tech initiatives.

5. Developing a Resilient Supply Chain

Building a resilient supply chain that can withstand global shocks, such as pandemics or economic recessions, ensures the continuity of tech operations. This means diversifying suppliers and leveraging technology for supply chain management.

Conclusively, the potential of the Nigerian tech sector in the digital era cannot be overstated. However, realizing this potential requires a multi-dimensional approach to leadership and management that navigates the unique challenges that Nigeria faces.

It will demand leaders who are adaptive, visionary, and ethical, as well as managers who are operationally astute and strategically minded.

By embracing a collaborative ecosystem, fostering continuous learning, and adopting a problem-solving attitude, tech leaders and managers can drive Nigeria toward a vibrant digital future.

This journey will involve learning, adaptation, and an unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence that will shape not just the future of Nigerian tech but perhaps the entire African continent.

*Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is the first Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and the first Professor of African descent to be awarded a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute.

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