Leo Stan Ekeh Calls for Tech-Focused Parenting as TD Africa Celebrates Partners at 12th Annual Awards Night

Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group, delivered a compelling message to Nigerian parents at the 12th edition of TD Africa’s “Celebrating You” Awards Night, urging them to prioritize technology education for their children as the nation positions itself for economic dominance.

Event Highlights

Speaking before an audience of partners, industry leaders, and distinguished guests at the event held at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Mr. Ekeh emphasized the transformative power of technology in securing Nigeria’s economic future.

“I advise you, if you have two, three kids, stick two in technology, it is a good gamble,” Mr. Ekeh stated, revealing his belief in technology as the cornerstone of national development and individual prosperity.

The annual “Celebrating You” Awards Night, themed “African Digital Renaissance,” is one of the most anticipated events in Nigeria’s technology ecosystem. The 12th edition recognized outstanding contributions to the sector.

TD Africa’s Commitment

Mrs. Chioma Ekeh, Chief Executive Officer of TD Africa, reinforced the company’s commitment to its partners, noting their trust, loyalty, and performance throughout 2025 were instrumental to the organization’s success.

“Our achievements this year were made possible by partners who demonstrate excellence,” she remarked, highlighting the collaborative spirit defining TD Africa’s business approach.

Leadership and Vision

Ekeh has built his technology empire alongside his wife, Mrs. Chioma Ekeh, CEO of TD Africa. Since its establishment in 1999, they have positioned the company as one of West Africa’s leading technology distributors. Their partnership extends beyond business, representing a shared vision for Africa’s digital transformation.

As Chairman of Zinox, Ekeh oversees a conglomerate including Task Systems, TD Africa, Zinox Technologies, and Konga, forming the backbone of Nigeria’s technology infrastructure. His leadership focuses on empowering Africans through accessible technology solutions.

Economic Outlook and Philosophy

Addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, Mr. Ekeh expressed optimism, declaring: “In the next 10 years, there would be no stronger economy than this country, so you must have faith but you must work with conscience.”

He shared a personal business philosophy: “When I started, two years into the business, I embarked on a principle of CORPORATE TITHE. It is uncommon but I have entrenched this value in my companies.” This principle has manifested in initiatives like a $75 million creative financing facility established 16 years ago to support Nigerian businesses unable to access traditional loans.

“All the monies you people are giving us are being returned to build a strong economy,” Ekeh explained.

Initiatives and Impact

Ekeh’s commitment to technology-driven empowerment led to the launch of the Computerize Nigeria Initiative, a partnership between Zinox Technologies and KongaCares. The program aims to provide at least one million Nigerian students with computers, alongside supporting infrastructure:

• Uninterrupted power solutions through iPower inverters
• Reliable internet connectivity powered by Starlink
• Comprehensive training and after-sales support

The initiative is one of the most significant corporate social responsibility efforts in Nigeria’s technology sector, designed to democratize access to digital education.

Awards and Recognition

The evening featured awards recognizing partners who demonstrated exceptional innovation, project execution, customer excellence, and strategic collaboration in 2025. Categories included:

• Partner of the Year
• Mobile Partner of the Year
• Legacy Award
• OEM Staff of the Year
• OEM of the Year
• Digital Impact Award
• Payment Discipline Award

A raffle draw saw Chukwuka Mmadu, Founder of Chimesco Standard Concept and a TD Africa Partner, win a brand-new SUV.

Notable Attendees

The event attracted influential figures, including:

• Mrs. Ibukun Awosika, former Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria and Special Guest of Honour
• Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, former Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission
• Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM)
• Dr. Stella Okoli, Founder/CEO of Emzor Pharmaceuticals
• Mr. Atedo Peterside, Founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank and Anap Foundation
• Mr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo, Founder of SLOT Systems and co-founder of TECNO Mobile

Entertainment

The awards ceremony was complemented by performances from Nigerian music icons Styl Plus and Wande Coal, comedian Kenny Blaq, and spoken word artist Chidalu Ekeh, blending professional recognition with cultural celebration.