Tinuade Oguntuyi, a leading expert in IT and Network Infrastructure, predicts a dramatic shift in Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, with more telecom companies evolving into technology-driven enterprises, or “Techcos,” in 2025. This transformation will see telecoms integrating advanced technologies such as cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, and machine learning (ML), becoming key players in the broader tech ecosystem.
Speaking to Techeconomy, Tinuade, who has led the design, deployment, and optimization of network solutions for over 30 telecom base stations across Nigeria, pointed to the partnership between MTN and Cloudflare as a key indicator of this shift. MTN Converged Solutions and Cloudflare, a global leader in internet security and performance, have joined forces in a strategic collaboration aimed at enhancing cybersecurity standards across Africa.
“We are witnessing a rapid evolution of Telecommunications companies into Technology companies,” Tinuade said. “This transformation, as seen in MTN’s partnership with Cloudflare, is just the beginning. Telcos are broadening their focus to become crucial players in the tech space, not just the telecommunications sector.”
Tinuade emphasized that the move from ‘Telco to Techco’ marks a strategic pivot that will empower telecom companies to offer comprehensive, end-to-end digital solutions in 2025 and beyond. She also pointed to the accelerating commercialization of 5G technology as a significant milestone, with AI tools poised to spark innovative breakthroughs across industries.
However, she cautioned that while AI holds tremendous potential, it also presents new challenges. “AI will play a key role in areas like fraud detection, but it also opens doors for increased threats, especially in the dark web,” she noted. Additionally, she highlighted the rise of hyper-personalization, which, although convenient, raises important questions about privacy, data security, and the ethical implications of algorithm-driven content delivery.
Tinuade also addressed the macroeconomic challenges facing Nigeria, emphasizing the need for government action to support the growth of the tech sector. “Investors must be assured that the telecom sector holds significant growth potential,” she said. “But to achieve this, the government must tackle inflation, refine monetary policies, and focus on overall economic growth to create a more conducive environment for tech innovation.”
On the issue of talent migration, Tinuade noted a shift in the workforce, with many telecom engineers diversifying into other core tech fields such as machine learning and cybersecurity. “While this trend is positive for the industry, we still need quality talent in sectors that are facing challenges in attracting skilled professionals,” she explained.
Tinuade also underscored the importance of government support in areas like taxation and forex access, calling for stronger incentives for indigenous companies. “The government needs to make it easier for companies to do business, especially in terms of foreign exchange, which has had a negative impact on the telecom sector,” she said. “Incentives like the Universal Service Provision Fund (USPF) should be amplified, and infrastructure support, particularly in power, is critical for sustainable growth.”
As Nigeria’s telecom sector continues its evolution into the tech space, Tinuade’s insights suggest that 2025 will be a year of significant transformation. The shift from ‘Telco to Techco’ offers new opportunities, but also comes with its fair share of challenges. How the industry adapts to these changes will shape its future trajectory.
