In a world where the technology sector remains predominantly male-dominated, Funke Opeke shines as a symbol of excellence, determination, and success. She is a trailblazer who has shattered barriers for women in tech, not only in Nigeria but across Africa. As the CEO of MainOne, one of West Africa’s leading providers of connectivity and data solutions, Opeke has solidified her position as a key player in the tech ecosystem. However, her journey extends beyond technology; it is a narrative of resilience, vision, and an unwavering desire to create lasting impact in a country fraught with challenges.
Born and raised in Ibadan, Nigeria, Opeke graduated with a degree in Electrical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University—an unusual feat for women at the time. Her thirst for knowledge propelled her further, leading her to earn a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University in New York. Over the course of more than two decades, Opeke worked in the United States, gaining extensive experience in major telecommunications companies.
Upon returning to Nigeria in 2005, Opeke was immediately struck by the vast digital divide in the country. Having worked in the highly developed tech environment of the US, she recognised how Nigeria’s poor infrastructure was hindering growth and limiting opportunities, particularly in the telecommunications and internet sectors, where connectivity was both unreliable and scarce.
Initially, she joined the public sector, taking up the role of Chief Technical Officer at Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL). This experience exposed her to the deeper structural problems facing Nigeria’s telecommunications industry, especially the critical underinvestment in infrastructure. Fueled by a determination to address these issues, Opeke ventured out on her own, founding MainOne in 2008.
MainOne was a product of Opeke’s bold vision to enhance internet connectivity across West Africa, starting with Nigeria. She understood that for Nigeria to thrive on a global stage, it needed a robust and reliable digital infrastructure. MainOne began as an ambitious project aimed at laying a 7,000-kilometre submarine fibre optic cable from Portugal to Nigeria. Completed in 2010, this project marked a pivotal milestone in West Africa’s telecommunications history.
Opeke’s journey with MainOne was not without challenges. She faced considerable obstacles, including securing funding and navigating the bureaucratic complexities that are characteristic of Nigeria’s business environment. Nevertheless, her persistence paid off, and MainOne has since grown into a major force in the tech industry, providing connectivity to some of West Africa’s largest businesses, educational institutions, and government entities.
The success of MainOne has not only revolutionised Nigeria’s tech landscape but has also empowered other African countries by offering the infrastructure necessary to foster growth in their tech sectors. Funke Opeke’s leadership is defined by resilience and vision. As a woman leading in a male-dominated industry, she encountered significant challenges, from scepticism about her capabilities to the difficulties associated with raising capital for such a large-scale project. However, her unwavering commitment to her goals, combined with a clear and determined vision, has repeatedly proven that these barriers can be overcome.
Opeke’s impact extends beyond her role as CEO of MainOne. She is a strong advocate for gender equality in the workplace and is dedicated to empowering the next generation of tech leaders, particularly women. She has spoken extensively on the importance of mentorship and the creation of opportunities for women in technology, firmly believing that diversity fosters better decision-making and innovation.
Her vision is not confined to the tech world. Opeke is a passionate proponent of sustainable development and has consistently promoted the idea that technology should be utilised to solve real-world problems. Whether through improving educational access with better internet connectivity or empowering businesses with reliable digital infrastructure, she remains focused on creating solutions that have a tangible and meaningful impact.
While Opeke is widely recognised for her achievements in the technology sector, her influence reaches far beyond. She serves as a mentor and role model to countless young women aspiring to break into the tech industry. Through various initiatives, she has actively worked to bridge the gender gap in technology, advocating for more women to pursue careers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields.
Opeke’s involvement in mentorship programmes has seen her offer guidance and support to young professionals and students alike. Her message is clear: women belong in the tech space, and they are as capable as their male counterparts. Her advocacy has inspired many women to enter the technology industry, gradually breaking down the barriers that have traditionally kept women out.
Funke Opeke’s contributions to the fields of technology and business have not gone unnoticed. Over the years, she has received numerous awards and accolades for her work. She has been featured in several prestigious rankings, including Forbes Africa’s Most Powerful Women and CNN’s Leading Women. Her leadership and visionary approach have earned her respect both locally and internationally, solidifying her status as a tech powerhouse.
One of her most significant recognitions came in 2018, when she was awarded the Nigerian National Honour, the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), in acknowledgement of her outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.
Funke Opeke’s legacy will undoubtedly be remembered for generations. She has not only transformed Nigeria’s tech landscape but has also paved the way for future generations of women and young professionals to follow in her footsteps. Her story is one of resilience, innovation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
Through MainOne, Opeke has provided the backbone for West Africa’s digital transformation, helping to build a more connected and prosperous region. Her work has empowered countless businesses, improved educational outcomes, and spurred economic growth in ways that were once unimaginable.
Beyond her professional achievements, Opeke’s commitment to mentoring young professionals and advocating for gender equality ensures that her legacy will extend far beyond her lifetime. She has demonstrated that women can not only thrive in technology but also lead major transformations. With the right infrastructure in place, she believes that Nigeria—and Africa at large—can compete on a global scale.
