In the heart of Bauchi State, Nigeria, a wave of innovation is transforming the local tech ecosystem, driven by a handful of young, ambitious minds. Among them is Usman Ilias, a trailblazer in the tech industry whose journey from a curious student to entrepreneur exemplifies resilience, passion, and a commitment to societal change.

Usman Ilias, the CEO of AVO ORIGIN Digital Enterprise and co-founder of Startup Bauchi, stands as a beacon of inspiration for young innovators in Northern Nigeria. His story is not just about personal success but about fostering an environment where technology can thrive and make a significant impact on the community.

His journey began not in a Silicon Valley garage, but in the heart of a community grappling with limited access to technology and resources. Witnessing this disparity firsthand ignited a fire within Usman, a burning desire to bridge the digital divide and empower his community through open-source technology.

Fueled by this purpose, Usman co-founded AVO ORIGIN Digital Enterprise and Startup Bauchi. Through these ventures, Usman and his team are not just building businesses; they’re building bridges. They’re developing innovative solutions like I-Attend, a smart attendance system, and AVOPAY for students, tackling real-world challenges and equipping communities with the tools they need to thrive.

But Usman’s vision extends beyond products. He recognizes the importance of nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation. Startup Bauchi serves as a launchpad for aspiring tech enthusiasts, offering mentorship programs, workshops, and networking events. By empowering the next generation of problem-solvers, Usman is laying the foundation for a sustainable tech ecosystem in Bauchi State.

Bauchi State, like many parts of Northern Nigeria, faces numerous challenges in its tech ecosystem. These include limited access to resources, visibility, and support for budding tech enthusiasts. Usman Ilias’ journey highlights these challenges and his relentless pursuit of solutions.

Despite the odds, Usman remains focused on his mission to make a nationwide impact. He dreams of a future where technology is accessible to all and innovation thrives in every corner of Nigeria. Together with his team, Usman actively advocates for support, acceleration, and visibility. They have attended major tech programs like GITEX Africa Briefing in Abuja, engaged with institutions like NNIA, NACOS, NITDA, and pitched their solutions to the NUC delegate at the ATBU Bio Tech Hub.

Continous efforts not just strength or our intelligence is the key to unlocking our potentials

Usman Ilias

In this Q&A, Usman shares his insights, challenges, and aspirations for the future.

What problem are you solving?

I’m dedicated to leveraging open-source technology to address various challenges in digital product development and foster innovation in the tech ecosystem, particularly in Bauchi State. Through AVO ORIGIN Digital Enterprise and Startup Bauchi, we aim to bridge the digital divide and empower communities through technology.

What inspired you to solve this particular problem?

Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the disparity in access to technology and opportunities between urban and rural areas. This glaring inequality ignited my passion to use open-source technology as a tool for social change and empowerment, particularly in underserved regions like Bauchi State.

What problems and difficulties have you encountered and how did you overcome them?

Building a startup and advocating for open-source technology comes with its fair share of challenges, from funding constraints to resistance to change. However, through resilience, strategic partnerships, and community engagement, we’ve been able to overcome these obstacles, turning them into opportunities for growth and innovation.

What keeps you going?

The unwavering belief in the transformative power of technology to create positive change and improve lives, coupled with the support and encouragement from the communities we serve, fuels my determination to keep pushing forward despite the challenges.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

In five years, I envision myself at the forefront of a thriving tech ecosystem in Bauchi State, with AVO ORIGIN Digital Enterprise and Startup Bauchi serving as catalysts for innovation and socioeconomic development in the region.

Which African inspires you to do and be better?

Nelson Mandela’s legacy of resilience, leadership, and dedication to social justice continues to inspire me to strive for excellence and make a meaningful impact in my community and beyond.

What advice do you have for young Africans? My advice to young Africans is to embrace curiosity, pursue their passions relentlessly, and never underestimate the power of collaboration and perseverance in achieving their goals and driving positive change in their communities.

What impact do you hope to make in your community? I aspire to leave a lasting legacy of empowerment and innovation by equipping individuals and communities in Bauchi State with the necessary tools, skills, and resources to thrive in the digital age and contribute meaningfully to socioeconomic development.

Can you share a pivotal moment that changed your life?

A pivotal moment in my life was witnessing the transformative impact of introducing open-source technology to underserved communities in Bauchi State, realizing the immense potential of technology to break barriers and empower individuals to create their own opportunities.

How has your journey impacted others, and what stories do you treasure?

My journey has inspired others to believe in the power of technology to transform lives and communities. I treasure the stories of individuals whose lives have been positively impacted by our initiatives, from young entrepreneurs launching their startups to students gaining access to quality education through digital platforms. These stories serve as a testament to the transformative potential of open-source technology and the importance of collective action in driving positive change.

Usman Ilias’ journey is a testament to the power of resilience, innovation, and community engagement. Through his work with AVO ORIGIN Digital Enterprise and Startup Bauchi, he is transforming the tech ecosystem in Bauchi State and beyond. By leveraging open-source technology, fostering local talent, and overcoming significant challenges, Usman is paving the way for a brighter, more inclusive future.

At Stories by Thrive Media Africa, we celebrate individuals like Usman Ilias who are making a positive impact across the continent. By providing a platform for problem-solvers and change-makers, we aim to inspire a new generation of leaders and contribute to a more balanced media narrative, promoting hope and empowerment. Usman’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved through dedication, collaboration, and a passion for social good.

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