Afeez Akinfola Oyinloye, the visionary chief executive officer of MacTech O.A Nigeria Enterprises, has achieved significant recognition by winning an award at the Finland Digital Technology Summer School, organised for digital technology entrepreneurs from around the world. Participants include innovators from the United States, Africa, Asia, Europe, and beyond, highlighting the programme’s global reach.
During the summer school, Oyinloye and his peers engaged in a digital technology business real-time simulator that allowed them to run tech businesses in a dynamic, real-time environment. Oyinloye excelled in this simulation, emerging as the most successful participant throughout the course, showcasing his strategic thinking and entrepreneurial skills.
In addition to his impressive performance in the simulator, Oyinloye delivered a standout presentation on emerging technology trends in Europe, captivating an international audience and spotlighting his expertise and ambitious dreams for the UK tech scene.
Armed with a BSc in Information Systems from the University of East London and currently a master’s student at Sheffield Hallam University, Oyinloye presented a paper titled, ‘Emerging Tech Horizons: Leveraging AI Application Development to Shape Europe’s Market Trends and Position the UK Among the Top 10 Global Tech Innovators.’ Drawing from his experience founding MacTech in 2014, he outlined the technologies poised to dominate Europe’s market—AI, cloud computing, and logistics platforms and urged digital tech companies to invest in scalable, inclusive solutions.
A key focus of his talk was AI application development, an area he sees as pivotal for the UK. “AI isn’t just a tool; it’s a game changer for efficiency and innovation,” Oyinloye told attendees. He highlighted his own ventures, like the WakaForMe Ride app, launched in 2021, which boosted Osun State’s transport efficiency by 20 per cent as proof of tech’s transformative power. “I dream of joining the UK’s top 10 tech companies, driving AI solutions that tackle real challenges,” he added, citing the UK’s need for advanced applications in public services and logistics.
The presentation wasn’t just aspirational; it was grounded in results. Oyinloye pointed to MacTech’s 2022 payroll system for Osun State, which saved over ₦750 million by eliminating 1,500 ghost workers, as a model for AI-driven governance. “This is the kind of impact I want to replicate in the UK and Europe,” he said, earning nods from European academics and tech peers alike.
The University of Vaasa recognised Oyinloye’s contributions as the Digital Technology Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2023 Summer School, praising his “insightful analysis and compelling vision.” Dr. Hanna, a summer school coordinator, noted, “Afeez brought a fresh perspective from Nigeria’s tech ecosystem, blending practical experience with global ambition. His work stood out.”
Back home, Oyinloye’s track record speaks volumes. MacTech’s WakaForMe app created over 500 jobs and generated more than ₦100 million in its first six months. His training of over 500 Nigerian youths in tech skills has fueled the country’s digital growth. His Finnish accolade builds on this legacy, signaling his readiness for a bigger stage.
Digital Technology analysts see Oyinloye’s focus on AI as timely. “The UK’s digital economy thrives on innovators like him,” said Lagos-based expert Chika Nwosu. “His experience in logistics and governance tech could push boundaries there.” Oyinloye agrees, envisioning partnerships with UK firms to enhance AI-driven public services.
As Oyinloye returns to his base, his sights remain on Europe and the UK. “This award is a stepping stone,” he said. “I’m ready to bring my expertise to a global hub like the UK and help shape its tech future.” For now, his triumph in Finland is a testament to what Nigerian talent can achieve on the world stage.
