Bosun Tijani: The Tech Enthusiast who may become Science, Technology, and Innovation Minister
By Abbas Badmus
TECHDIGEST – In the realm of innovation and technological advancement, the anticipation surrounding Bosun Tijani’s potential appointment as the Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation is nothing short of electrifying.
Tijani, a visionary entrepreneur and tech luminary, stands poised to revolutionize Nigeria’s technological landscape and spearhead a new era of progress. From his humble beginnings as a tech enthusiast to his meteoric rise as a prominent figure in Africa’s tech ecosystem, His journey is an inspiring testament to the power of innovation.
Bosun Tijani was born on 20 July, 1977 in Agege, Lagos, Nigeria and spent his formative years there before moving to Abeokuta, Nigeria for his secondary education.
In 1996, he went on to Jos, Nigeria to study at the University of Jos where he first started off studying for a diploma in Computer Science before going on to study Economics, graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in 2002. He later obtained an MSc in Information Systems and Management from the Warwick Business School, United Kingdom in 2007.
He is a Nigerian-British entrepreneur, co-founder and CEO of Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB), the leading Pan-African innovation and technology centre.Co-Creation Hub works at the forefront of accelerating the application of innovation and social capital for a better society.
Tijani is widely acknowledged as a pioneer and industry leader in the African technology ecosystem and was named as one of the 100 Most Influential People on the continent by New Africa Magazine.
READ ALSO: Digital Literacy: NITDA Has Empowered Over 3 Million Nigerians – Kashifu
He initiated the first visit of Mark Zuckerberg to Nigeria in August 2016 as part of efforts to place Africa on the global technology map.
He has also hosted other global technology leaders in Nigeria, including former Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey in 2019 and most recently in June, 2023, hosted a fireside chat with Microsoft founder and co-Chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Bill Gates.In 2019, under his leadership, CcHUB acquired Kenya’s iHub and launched the CcHUB Design Lab in Kigali, Rwanda in the same year.
He has also expanded CcHUB’s Pan-African footprint into Southern Africa by opening CcHUB Namibia, the main tech hub in Windhoek, Namibia in 2023.
Read Also:
Tijani is also currently an associate researcher at the Wits School of Governance,with research interests in collaborative projects that inform practice through support to policymakers, inventors and entrepreneurs while advancing theories in innovation systems and governance.
In 2023, Tijani earned a PhD in innovation and economic development from the School of Business, University of Leicester.
Tijani has also been part of the Innovation for Economic Development executive programme at Harvard Kennedy School in 2013 as well as being a 2014 Draper Hills Fellow of the Centre for Democracy, Development and the Rule of Law (CDDRL) at Stanford University.
One of Tijani’s most notable achievements is the establishment of the iHub, an initiative aimed at providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources and mentorship needed to transform their ideas into impactful businesses. Under his guidance, the iHub has incubated and accelerated countless startups, propelling Nigeria’s tech ecosystem to greater heights.
As a potential Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation, he brings a unique blend of business acumen, technological expertise, and an unwavering passion for progress. His extensive network within the tech industry, both locally and globally, positions him as a bridge between Nigeria and the global tech community, paving the way for collaborations, investments, and knowledge exchange.
Tijani’s vision extends beyond mere technological advancements; he envisions a future where innovation is harnessed to address pressing societal challenges. His emphasis on leveraging technology for social good, evident in initiatives such as the “Tech for Good” program, showcases his dedication to using innovation as a force for positive change.
Under his leadership, the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation could become a catalyst for innovative solutions to critical issues, ranging from healthcare to agriculture and beyond.
Furthermore, Tijani’s track record of advocating for policies that promote a conducive environment for tech startups and entrepreneurs is a testament to his commitment to nurturing homegrown talent. His involvement in crafting policies that facilitate access to funding, reduce regulatory hurdles, and encourage research and development could pave the way for a thriving tech ecosystem that rivals even the most advanced nations.
In conclusion, the prospect of Bosun Tijani assuming the role of Minister of Science, Technology, and Innovation is a thrilling one. With his unparalleled passion, extensive experience, and unyielding dedication to innovation, Tijani has the potential to not only elevate Nigeria’s tech sector but also inspire a generation of future innovators.
As Nigeria stands on the brink of a technological renaissance, Bosun Tijani’s appointment could mark a defining moment in the nation’s journey toward progress, innovation, and prosperity.
