ARISE, MTN, Others Shine at CIO Awards

Omolabake Fasogbon

The Chief Information Officer (CIO) of MTN Nigeria, Shoyinka Shodunke and Arise News Channel’s Adetunji Ayoade, amongst others emerged winners at the recently held CIO Awards Africa in Lagos, recently. The awardees were recognised for their outstanding achievements in technology and innovation. 

The award initiative which has now extended to other African countries with the aim to enhance the growth of technology across Africa by rewarding organisations and tech leaders, including CIOs, CTOs and CISOs who are working round the clock to create, spread and sustain technological innovations. 

Speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Mr. Saheed Alao, emphasised the role of technology to the economy, stating that recognising its drivers would further spur innovation and offcourse, a key to unlocking economic growth. 

According to him, achieving 10 per cent in broadband penetration could actually translate to 2. 5 per cent growth in GDP.

On his part, Chairman, CIO Awards Grand Jury, Dr. Ayotunde Coker, told CIOs to aspire for greater role like CEO, advising them to acquire skills that will prepare them for the higher tasks. 

He urged players to see technology as not just a tool but a driver of transformational leadership. 

“Always think about Leadership transformation and impact and not just technology transformation”, he maintained. 

Earlier in the opening speech, Convener of CIO Awards Africa, Abiola Laseinde said the award initiative was a testament to the unyielding spirit of innovation, collaboration, and progress that defines African continent.