GRLife
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.
The Friends of Regent Primary School (FORPS), Maitama, Abuja, has donated two manual boreholes to the Kogo II and Barangoni communities in Bwari Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory Abuja as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.
Chairperson of the Friends of Regent Primary School, Mrs. Salma Dahiru Muhammed, speaking at the commissioning of the boreholes which took place on Friday, 4th July 2025 in the two communities, described the project as a meaningful step in the group’s ongoing commitment to community development and social impacts.
“Access to clean water is a basic human necessity, yet it remains a challenge in many parts of Abuja. This initiative is aimed at providing sustainable potable water, thereby promoting better health, supporting development, and improving the living conditions of the beneficiary communities.
“These boreholes are testament and benefits of collective action and a shared vision and the attendant positive impacts,” she noted, while expressing gratitude to all donors and volunteers who contributed to the success of the projects, emphasizing that their generosity made the intervention possible. She reaffirmed the group’s dedication to continuing efforts to uplift underserved communities.
Also speaking at the event, the Headmaster of Regent Primary School, Mr. Shaun Stockden said that the borehole project was conceived and completed in just seven months. “We organize annual fundraisers that support impactful community projects, and we look forward to initiating more of such interventions.”
Vice Chairperson of the Friends of Regent Primary School, Mrs. Fiona Ewa recounted a viral video showing both people and animals sharing the same water source in some rural communities, an image that deeply moved the group to take action. “We knew something had to be done,” she said.
“Providing a clean, sustainable, and reliable source of drinking water can significantly improve hygiene and living standards of the people. Each borehole is estimated to supply up to 3,000 liters of water daily,” she said.
In appreciation, Chief Samuel Gimba of Kogo II and Mr. Timothy Yohana of Barangoni communities both in Bwari Area Council, expressed heartfelt thanks to the Friends of Regent Primary School and acknowledged the life changing nature of the donation, while pledging differently to maintain the facilities responsibly.
CampusLife
A Joyous Milestone: Pamela Iweze Celebrates Daughter’s Graduation with Pride, Purpose, and a Message of Hope
Reporter: SANDRA ANI
In a heartfelt celebration filled with joy, pride, and inspiration, Ms Pamela Iweze—renowned advocate and founder of Olivedoor Community CIC and the Pamela Iweze Kingdom Children Foundation (PIKCF)—witnessed a deeply personal milestone as her daughter, Princess Christiana Adebisi a Classical trained Music Scholar from the famous London Music Fund, graduated from the prestigious Royal Alexandra and Albert School.
The graduation ceremony was a proud and emotional moment not only for the family but for a broader community that has watched Ms Iweze dedicate her life to advocating for children, empowering women, and building bridges of support between Nigeria and the UK. For the many who gathered—family, friends, and well-wishers from both sides of the Atlantic—it was a celebration of legacy, resilience, and the fulfilment of a mother’s dream.
“It’s an incredible blessing to see my daughter achieve this milestone,” Ms Iweze shared emotionally. “Over the years, I’ve stood beside so many families celebrating their children’s growth. Today, I’m grateful to be the one celebrating mine.”
Princess Christiana’s achievement stands as a testament not only to her dedication but to the enduring value that Nigerians in the diaspora continue to bring to their host communities.
Her success adds to the growing number of Nigerian youths abroad who are making meaningful contributions—academically, socially, and professionally—putting Nigeria in a positive global spotlight.
This moment is also a powerful reminder of the intellectual excellence that Nigerians have long demonstrated across the world. It reinforces the importance of education, particularly for the girl child, and affirms that given the right support and encouragement, Nigerian girls can rise to the highest levels of academic and personal success.
For Ms Iweze, the occasion was more than a graduation—it was the embodiment of everything she has worked for: creating opportunities, nurturing potential, and promoting the importance of strong family and community values.
In a joint congratulatory message, Olivedoor Community CIC UK and PIKCF Nigeria commended Princess Christiana for exemplifying the very principles they stand for: excellence, integrity, and service.
Her journey, they noted, reflects the hope of a new generation of Nigerians shaping the future with courage and conviction.
As the celebrations continue, this milestone reminds us all that the empowerment of one child—especially a girl—can echo across nations, inspire communities, and transform futures.
Spotlight
PRCAN Congratulates Mrs. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi on Her Historic Election as President of NIMN
Reporter: SANDRA ANI
The Public Relations Consultants Association of Nigeria (PRCAN) has extended its heartfelt congratulations to Mrs. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi on her election as the President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN).
In a statement signed by Dr. Nkechi Ali-Balogun, fnipr, Chair/CEO of PRCAN, the association described Mrs. Bayo-Ajayi’s election as a landmark achievement and a significant moment in the history of the marketing and communications profession in Nigeria.
“On behalf of PRCAN, I extend our warmest congratulations to Mrs. Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi on her historic election as the first female President of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria. Her emergence is not only a celebration of professional excellence but also a beacon of inspiration to practitioners across the integrated marketing communications industry,” Dr. Ali-Balogun stated.
She further noted that Mrs. Bayo-Ajayi’s distinguished career and consistent dedication to the development of the marketing profession have earned her this well-deserved recognition.
“Her leadership comes at a critical time in Nigeria’s evolving marketing and communications landscape. We are confident that NIMN will continue to thrive under her visionary guidance, championing innovation, professionalism, gender inclusion, and sustainable growth in the sector,” she added.
PRCAN expressed optimism about strengthening institutional collaborations between NIMN and PRCAN to advance professional development and capacity building in Nigeria’s integrated marketing communications ecosystem.
“We look forward to deeper synergy between our two organisations as we collectively strive to elevate standards, empower practitioners, and shape the future of our industry,” the statement concluded.
PRCAN once again congratulates Mrs. Bayo-Ajayi on this outstanding achievement and wishes her a successful and impactful tenure.
FORPS Donates Boreholes to 2 Bwari Communities in Abuja
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A Joyous Milestone: Pamela Iweze Celebrates Daughter’s Graduation with Pride, Purpose, and a Message of Hope
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