Chairman of Zinox Group, Leo Stan Ekeh, has urged young Nigerian entrepreneurs to shift focus from chasing short-term wealth to building sustainable systems that can drive national progress and long-term prosperity.
Speaking to a gathering of emerging business leaders, Ekeh drew from his extensive journey in the tech industry, offering insights on leadership, nation-building, and legacy.
Turning Down Silicon Valley for Nigeria
Ekeh, who studied at the University of Punjab and completed a postgraduate program in computer science at Cork City University, Ireland, shared a defining moment in his career—rejecting job offers from global tech giants like Apple in Silicon Valley to return home and build something lasting.
“I founded Zinox to instill confidence in our digital economy and equip the next generation to navigate the digital storm ahead,” he told the audience via an email to The PUNCH.
This decision, he said, was anchored in a deep conviction to pioneer change in Nigeria’s nascent digital space rather than chase comfort abroad.
Early Disruption and Tech Advocacy
In the early years, Ekeh revolutionized Nigeria’s media and publishing sectors by introducing desktop publishing and computer graphics to outlets like Daily Times, Vanguard, University Press, and Longman. These innovations laid the foundation for the country’s modern creative and digital industries.
He also played a critical role in establishing Nigeria’s tech ecosystem by facilitating strategic partnerships with OEMs like HP, Microsoft, Dell, and Apple, helping to foster a competitive and innovative environment still benefiting the country today.
Ekeh pointed to his pivotal involvement in the 2010 ICT deployment with INEC, Africa’s largest single tech rollout at the time, which he says contributed to Nigeria’s democratic transformation. He has also led successful tech initiatives across Africa, including Gambia’s largest e-library and wireless cloud rollout.
Beyond Borders: A Pan-African Tech Vision
Under his leadership, the Zinox Group has expanded into multiple sectors—e-commerce, manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, real estate, and entertainment—positioning itself as a global force with African roots.
In the energy sector, Zinox pioneered digital fuel dispensers and supported global oil companies like Shell, Chevron, and Total with key tech infrastructure.
Patriotism Over Profit
Despite facing personal losses, blackmail, and policy challenges, Ekeh has remained steadfast in his mission to create value for Nigeria.
“True patriotism lies in building systems that serve Nigeria’s long-term prosperity—not individual gain,” he stressed.
He also cautioned young entrepreneurs to avoid idolizing short-term wealth and corrupt influences, urging them to resist distractions and focus on national impact.
Empowering the Next Generation
Highlighting Nigeria’s impressive digital growth—20% of GDP from the digital economy, 163 million internet users, and a fintech sector that processed ₦611 trillion in 2023—Ekeh expressed optimism about the future.
To close the gender gap in tech, he announced a new initiative to train 10,000 women in technology over the next five years, with 400 already graduating in 2025 alone.
A Legacy of Discipline and Vision
In his final remarks, Ekeh called on young Nigerians to lead with purpose:
“The future belongs to those who prepare for it. Build systems. Build people. And build a country you can be proud of.”
