An indigenous technology company, Arigo Technologies, says Nigeria and Africa have all it takes to become creators and leaders in the digital economy, not just consumers of foreign technology. Founder of the company, Dr. Arinze Madueke made the statement during the simultaneous launch of seven distinct, multisector digital platforms by the company at an event in Lagos on Saturday.
Madueke said the platforms were designed to address Africa’s unique challenges and prove that the continent could be positioned as a leader in global technology innovation and digital transformation. “We are not just building apps; we are building solutions that create jobs, empower entrepreneurs, connect talents, and demonstrate that Africa can lead the world in innovation,” he stated.
He commended the federal government’s current efforts in supporting the tech ecosystem but called for more involvement in technology events for improved visibility, support, and encouragement for industry players.
Madueke also urged the government to provide a more enabling environment, including infrastructure and policy frameworks, to help innovators and startups thrive in the evolving technology-driven economy. “I am delighted to have all of you here today in this epochmaking moment.
You are part of history as we showcase years of research, innovation, and sacrifice,” he said. He said the platforms were developed over five years within the Arigo Innovation Lab, involving intense testing, intellectual property, unquantifiable investment, and personal sacrifice from the founding team. “Some of the platforms stem from personal experience.
For instance, CribsAndRides was born after I was scammed by a supposed land agent shortly after returning to Nigeria from abroad. “It addresses gaps in talent discovery, transfer processes, and agent reliability in the global football ecosystem,” said Madueke. He encouraged Nigerian startups and tech enthusiasts to keep innovating, noting that Arigo’s innovation hub was opened to support entrepreneurs with ideas linked to technology and digital solutions.
Speaking at the event, sports journalist, Mr Ralph George revealed that FutbolConect had already onboarded more than 800 football clubs globally since its initial soft launch earlier in the year. George noted that more than 35,000 players had registered on the app, with a total transfer value of 1.2 billion naira already executed through deals made via the platform and website.
He disclosed that more than 180,000 people had visited the site across various countries, made possible by an earlier launch of the platform in London on May 30, 2025. “This platform helps bridge the gap where players, clubs, agents, and managers fall victim to fraud. “Nigerian clubs spend millions bringing agents who often disappoint,” George said.
