Entrepreneurs, business leaders, and government officials gathered in Abuja to celebrate the 50th birthday of Sim Shagaya, the visionary entrepreneur behind Konga, uLesson, DealDey, and Miva University.
Among the notable figures honoring Shagaya were Chalya Shagaya, Senior Special Adviser to the President on Entrepreneurship, and Abubakar Suleiman, CEO of Sterling Bank, who praised his innovative contributions to Nigeria’s digital and educational landscape.
A Tech Visionary and Bold Thinker
Chalya Shagaya described her brother as one of Nigeria’s most influential tech entrepreneurs, recognizing his efforts in transforming e-commerce, education, and online learning.
“Sim redefined online shopping in Nigeria with Konga and brought classrooms into homes across Africa with uLesson. As an administration under the Renewed Hope agenda, we deeply appreciate entrepreneurs like him, who drive economic growth and create meaningful opportunities,” she said.
She also emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurship-friendly policies that foster innovation and inclusive growth.
A Trailblazer Ahead of His Time
Sterling Bank CEO Abubakar Suleiman commended Shagaya’s forward-thinking approach, admitting that he was ahead of his time with many of his groundbreaking ideas.
“What makes great men is that they reach a point where their options are limitless. When Sim invited me to join the board of Miva University, I didn’t hesitate, and it’s one of the best decisions I’ve made,” he shared.
He described Shagaya’s entrepreneurial journey as one marked by creativity, resilience, and a willingness to challenge existing limitations, adding that his vision could have easily led to a billion-dollar company had the timing been different.
Transforming Education with Miva University
Professor Tayo Arulogun, Vice Chancellor of Miva University, also lauded Shagaya’s contributions to education, stating that the institution is setting a new standard for online learning in Nigeria.
“At Miva, we ensure graduates not only earn degrees but also develop skills that make them employable and entrepreneurial. We integrate courses on artificial intelligence and business creation, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving job market.”
As Nigeria continues to embrace digital transformation, Shagaya’s work across e-commerce, edtech, and higher learning remains a testament to his commitment to shaping the country’s economic and educational future.
A Lasting Legacy
With a career marked by bold innovations and impactful ventures, Sim Shagaya remains a pioneer in Africa’s tech ecosystem. His legacy is not just in the businesses he has built but in the opportunities he continues to create for others—a true testament to his influence as a visionary leader and changemaker.
