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SystemSpecs Founder John Obaro Bags Honorary Doctorate for Trailblazing Impact in Tech Innovation
In a notable acknowledgement of his transformative contributions to Nigeria’s technology landscape, John Tanimola Obaro, the Founder and Group Managing Director of SystemSpecs Holdings Limited, has been honoured with an honorary Doctor of Science (D.Sc.) degree by Kings University, Odeomu, Osun State.
This distinguished award highlights Obaro’s pioneering impact on technological innovation and his outstanding leadership within the industry, celebrating a career dedicated to advancing digital transformation and empowering future generations of innovators.
The honour was conferred during Kings University’s 5th and 6th Combined Convocation Ceremony on Friday, October 25, 2024, marking a significant milestone in Dr. Obaro’s illustrious career. His journey, marked by relentless dedication, has not only reshaped Nigeria’s digital landscape but has also influenced technological advancements in the country. Through his leadership at SystemSpecs Holdings Limited, Dr. Obaro has consistently championed innovation, fostering a culture of creativity and progress within the software tech industry.
Presenting the distinguished award, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Chancellor of Kings University and Senior Pastor of Kingsway International Christian Centre, commended Dr. Obaro’s impactful contributions to technology. He praised Dr. Obaro’s commitment to regional growth and development, recognizing him as a visionary whose work continues to drive progress and inspire future generations of innovators.
Dr. Obaro’s transformative leadership at SystemSpecs, one of Africa’s premier software technology powerhouses, has left an indelible mark on the digital landscape of Nigeria and beyond. Under his guidance, SystemSpecs has pioneered solutions that drive growth and foster innovation, notably through its flagship e-payment platform, Remita, as well as its Human Resource management application, HumanManager. These groundbreaking products empower governments, businesses, and individuals to harness technology as a powerful tool for streamlining financial transactions and human resource management, setting new standards in the industry.
SystemSpecs extends its impact through its forward-thinking subsidiaries namely Remita Payment Services Limited (RPSL), HumanManager Limited (HML), SystemSpecs Technology Services Limited (STSL) and SystemSpecs Deelaa Limited. STSL offers bespoke technology solutions and consulting services tailored to meet the unique challenges of the African market, while SystemSpecs Deelaa delivers eCommerce tools to drive business growth, provides efficient travel solutions, and offers diverse entertainment options. Together, these entities embody SystemSpecs’ commitment to expanding access to technology-driven success across various sectors, reflecting a dedication to regional advancement and sustainable progress. During the event, Dr. Obaro delivered a lecture titled “Navigating the Digital Era: Embracing Creativity and Unlocking the Boundaries of Technology,” in which he emphasised the importance of creativity in the ever-evolving digital world. He encouraged the graduands to explore new possibilities within technology, saying:
“As we navigate this digital age, creativity becomes the key to unlocking boundaries and pushing the frontiers of technology. Innovation is not confined to traditional tech sectors; rather, it can benefit several fields seamlessly. The integration of technology in areas like law, medicine, and engineering opens unprecedented pathways for growth and success. Our capacity to innovate and embrace the opportunities before us will define not just our future, but that of generations to come.”
He also advised the graduating students to embrace the responsibility of innovation, emphasising that the future hinges on their courage to push boundaries and create transformative change. “As you enter this next chapter, remember that each of you owes humanity a debt of innovation. You are the inheritors of a legacy, with the tools to build on past achievements and the responsibility to chart new courses for progress. Make excellence your calling card as you step into new spaces, owning your narrative and pushing beyond boundaries, because the world is watching,” remarked Dr Obaro.
The convocation ceremony brought together notable figures from various sectors, including distinguished awardees Mr. Paul Alaje, Senior Economist and Partner at SPM Professionals, Abuja, and Ms. Yemi Adeyinka, Team Lead at Eaglecrest Legal Consult, Lagos State. Both were honored with Awards of Excellence in recognition of their outstanding achievements and contributions within their respective fields, adding to the significance of the event.
In his address to the graduating class, Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo encouraged them to recognize the abundant opportunities within Nigeria, a nation he described as rich with potential for those ready to innovate. “There is serious unemployment everywhere in the world; it is your creativity that companies want to hire you for. There is money in Nigeria, and you can find it by making a difference through creativity, innovation, the digital world, and business ideas,” he emphasized. “If anybody tells you there is no money in Nigeria, they lie to you. Nigeria is at a crossroads with a record number of graduates without jobs. Look into the horizon. It’s hard for anyone to promise you anything better than what you see for yourself.”
Expressing his heartfelt gratitude to Kings University for the prestigious honor, Dr. Obaro also took the opportunity to acknowledge the unwavering support of his family and the talented team at SystemSpecs. He remarked, “I am deeply honoured to receive this recognition, and I dedicate this award to the many innovators who continue to shape Africa’s digital ecosystem. This recognition is as much a testament to the passion and dedication of the incredible minds I have had the privilege of working with.”
Dr. Obaro’s words reflected his belief in collaborative success and his commitment to advancing technology across the continent through a shared vision of innovation and progress.
The Group Managing Director of SystemSpecs, Dr. John Tanimola Obaro, is a distinguished alumnus of Ahmadu Bello University, where he earned his Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science and Mathematics in 1979. He furthered his academic journey with an MBA from the University of Lagos in 1981, followed by the Chief Executive Program at Lagos Business School in 1999. His dedication to the advancement of Nigeria’s tech industry was also recognized by Trinity University in 2024, which awarded him an Honorary Doctorate in Computing and Information Technology for his pioneering contributions to the software sector.
Dr. Obaro’s professional affiliations underscore his impact across policy, finance, and technology. He is a Fellow of the Centre for African Policy Development and Research in Glasgow, Scotland, a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, and a Fellow of the Nigeria Computer Society. His visionary leadership at SystemSpecs has been instrumental in driving technological advancements and shaping the future of digital payments and human capital management across Africa, reinforcing his influential role within the continent’s technology landscape.
MTN Nigeria’s Go Make A Difference (Go MAD) campaign brought its message of innovation and empowerment to Aba, the renowned hub of enterprise, on Sunday, March 23, 2025. The event, held at Sugarland, Luxury City Hotel, celebrated local creativity and resilience while encouraging Nigerians to take bold steps toward transforming their communities.
Onyinye Ikenna-Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria had earlier the inspiration behind the Go M.A.D initiative. “The Go M.A.D. campaign is rooted in the belief that MTN data gives you the power to take on the world, to achieve the extraordinary, and to make a meaningful difference, in your community, your family, and your workplace.”
The campaign has already made stops in cities like Abuja, Enugu, Calabar, Ibadan, and Benin, showcasing changemakers who embody the spirit of progress. In his opening remarks, MacDaniels Enwemuche, Regional Manager, Sales & Trade Development at MTN Nigeria, emphasised the importance of resilience during challenging times. He stated: “MTN is here to remind us that every great achievement starts small. We’re providing a platform for Nigerians to showcase their skills and products, not just locally but globally, removing limitations and amplifying their impact.”
Describing Aba as Nigeria’s “Silicon Valley”, Enwemuche explained the need to activate this campaign in Aba, due to the city’s industrious spirit and alignment with the Go MAD philosophy: “Aba is already making a difference. Every person — doctor, teacher, shoemaker — has a role to play in our ecosystem. Do it well.”
The event featured inspiring stories from local changemakers. Like chessmaster Tunde Onakoya, the campaign’s ambassador, these stories reflected how small steps can lead to global impact. Onakoya rose from humble beginnings to become a Guinness World Record holder for the longest chess marathon. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of determination and digital connectivity.
Local talents also took centre stage in a vibrant showcase. A body painter, tailor, and mechanical engineer demonstrated their crafts live, while fashion designer Prinna Nnanna unveiled an athleisure line sewn overnight and modelled on-site.
The Icons of Impact session highlighted changemakers using MTN data to drive social change. Dr. Precious Uche, CEO of Tonatel Beauty and Spa, shared her mission to redefine beauty standards:
“My business fights bleaching and promotes ‘black is beautiful.’ MTN data has helped me spread this message across Owerri and Aba.”
Fashion entrepreneur Michael Chinedu Ogbonna, CEO of Mua Couture, discussed how digital tools have expanded his reach: “The internet has made the world a global village. I now create clothes for clients in Malaysia, the US, and Canada — all thanks to data.”
Through storytelling, cultural showcases, and real-life examples, the Go MAD Aba activation reminded attendees that even small acts of courage can spark significant change. The campaign continues to celebrate resilience and innovation across Nigeria while empowering communities with digital tools.
With upcoming activations planned for cities like Jos, Lagos, and Kano, MTN remains committed to inspiring Nigerians to make a difference, one bold step at a time.
…reaffirms MTN Nigeria’s support following ‘draw’ with Zimbabwe.
MTN Nigeria, the official telecommunications partner of the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF), has reiterated its unwavering support for the Super Eagles following their spirited draw with Zimbabwe in the World Cup qualifier match at the Godswill Akpabio Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.
Building on the momentum from their recent victory against Rwanda, MTN Nigeria had expressed strong backing for the national team ahead of the crucial fixture. Tobe Okigbo, MTN Nigeria’s Chief Corporate Services & Sustainability Officer, stated before the game, “We are confident in the team’s ability to make Nigeria proud and qualify for the World Cup.”
Despite the draw, MTN Nigeria’s CEO, Karl Toriola, maintained a positive outlook. “While tonight’s outcome wasn’t what we hoped for, we remain steadfast in our support for the Super Eagles. This result is just part of the journey towards World Cup qualification, and we believe in the team’s resilience and ability to succeed,” Toriola said.
The match showcased the Super Eagles’ grit and determination as they found their rhythm against the Zimbabwean side. Nigeria scored the first goal, demonstrating their prowess and fighting spirit, although the match ultimately ended in a draw. This result has added to the excitement of Nigeria’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
MTN Nigeria, which signed a deal with the NFF in 2021 as the Official Telecoms Partner, has been a constant pillar of support for Nigerian football for over two decades. The company’s commitment extends from grassroots to national levels, investing significantly in the development of local football.
“Our support for the Super Eagles and all national teams is part of our long-standing tradition,” Toriola added. “We are building a sustainable legacy of collaboration, growth, and development in the football space. Tonight’s result doesn’t change our belief in the team’s potential to make all Nigerians proud on the global stage. We believe in our Eagles.”
As the Super Eagles regroup and prepare for their next qualifier, MTN Nigeria has called on all Nigerians to rally behind the team. The company emphasized that this is a crucial time for unity and continued support, expressing confidence that the Super Eagles will overcome this challenge and strive towards securing a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has commiserated with its member, Mr. Olatunde Abatan, publisher of Newdawn Online, over the passing of his beloved wife, Mrs. Desola Amoke Latifat Abatan (née Adewunmi).
Mrs. Abatan died on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, after a brief illness.
A press statement by the publicity secretary, GOCOP, Ogbuefi Remmy Nweke, quoted the guild leadership in a condolence message, signed by the President, Ms Maureen Chigbo and Secretary-General, Mr. Olumide Iyanda, said the loss was not only to her immediate family, but to the online publishing community.
“On behalf of the entire GOCOP family, we extend our heartfelt condolences to you and your family during this difficult time. The loss of a life partner is an indescribable pain, and we can only imagine the depth of your grief,” part of the condolence message read.
The guild prayed for the repose of her soul and asked God to grant her family the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss.
GOCOP further assured Mr. Abatan of members’ prayers and support during this trying period.
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