Bosun Tijani: Biography, Education, Career, and Controversies
Biography
Olatunbosun Tijani, popularly known as Bosun Tijani, is a Nigerian entrepreneur, technology expert, and public servant. He is best known as the co-founder and CEO of Co-Creation Hub (CcHub), a leading technology innovation hub in Africa. Born on July 20, 1977, in Nigeria, Tijani has played a crucial role in the growth of the African technology ecosystem. In 2023, he was appointed as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Education
Bosun Tijani has an impressive academic background:
- University of Jos, Nigeria – Bachelor’s degree in Economics
- University of Warwick, UK – Master’s degree in Information Systems and Management
- University of Leicester, UK – PhD in Innovation and Economic Development
His research and academic work have focused on leveraging technology to drive economic growth, particularly in emerging markets like Africa.
Career
Bosun Tijani has built an influential career spanning entrepreneurship, technology, and policy-making.
- Co-Creation Hub (CcHub): In 2010, he co-founded CcHub, Nigeria’s first open living lab and pre-incubation space. CcHub has since expanded to Kenya and Rwanda, supporting numerous tech startups across Africa.
- iHub & Growth in Africa: Under his leadership, CcHub acquired Kenya’s iHub, further strengthening Africa’s tech innovation ecosystem.
- Public Service: In 2023, he was appointed as Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, where he focuses on improving digital infrastructure, AI adoption, and innovation-driven policies.
- Other Contributions: Tijani has worked with various global institutions, including the World Bank, Google, and Facebook, to drive digital transformation in Africa.
Controversies
Bosun Tijani’s appointment as a minister in 2023 sparked some controversy due to his past social media comments.
- Old tweets resurfaced where he criticized the Nigerian government and expressed frustration with leadership in the country.
- During his ministerial screening at the Nigerian Senate, he had to explain his past statements and assure lawmakers of his commitment to national development.
- Some critics questioned whether he would align with government policies given his strong opinions in the past.
Despite these controversies, his expertise and track record in technology and innovation earned him a place in President Tinubu’s cabinet.
Conclusion
Bosun Tijani is a highly respected figure in Africa’s tech ecosystem. From founding CcHub to shaping Nigeria’s digital economy, he has demonstrated his commitment to innovation and economic growth. While his past comments stirred political debates, his appointment as Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy shows confidence in his ability to drive technological transformation in Nigeria.
