Lagos: 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. Dr Arinze Madueke, Founder of Arigo Technologies, made the statement during the simultaneous launch of seven distinct, multisector digital platforms by the company at an event in Lagos on Saturday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, 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 epoch-making moment. You are part of history as we showcase years of research, innovation, and sacrifice,” he said. He explained that 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.
Madueke shared personal experiences that inspired some of the platforms. CribsAndRides emerged after he was scammed by a supposed land agent shortly after returning to Nigeria from abroad, while FutbolConect was born from his journey as a football club owner, addressing gaps in talent discovery, transfer processes, and agent reliability in the global football ecosystem.
He encouraged Nigerian startups and tech enthusiasts to keep innovating and noted 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.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the event showcased Arigo’s flagship platforms, including MyArigo.com, a business marketplace and professional networking platform for African entrepreneurs and professionals. Other platforms launched include FutbolConect.com (a global football talent hub), Miamour.me (a marriage and therapy platform), and CribsAndRides.com (a luxury real estate and auto marketplace).
Also launched were Ijeuwa.com (a storytelling and reward platform), EduGlobal.international (a blockchain-secured edtech portal), and Twy.app (an Agentic AI-powered brand for personal and business productivity). The event attracted representatives from government agencies, financial institutions, universities, investors, FIFA-licensed football agents, and prominent figures from Nigeria’s entertainment and technology industries.
