By Oluwayanmife Ayobami
Born and raised in the vibrant city of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, Olatunbosun Tijani has emerged as a leading figure in the country’s ever-evolving startup landscape.
With his entrepreneurial spirit and passion for innovation, he has become an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs across Nigeria and beyond.
Early life and Education
He was born on July 20, 1977, in Agege, Lagos, Nigeria, and grew up there before moving to Abeokuta for high school. In 1996, he headed to Jos, Nigeria, and initially pursued a diploma in Computer Science at the University of Jos. Later, he shifted to Economics, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 2002. In 2007, he obtained an MSc in Information Systems and Management from the Warwick Business School in the United Kingdom.
In 2023, Tijani completed a PhD in innovation and economic development from the University of Leicester’s School of Business. His research focused on understanding how a network perspective on innovation capacity could explain innovation adoption in developing countries, suggesting alternative paths for African countries to organize their innovation ecosystems.
Tijani also participated in the Innovation for Economic Development program at Harvard Kennedy School in 2013 and was a 2014 Draper Hills Fellow at Stanford University’s Centre for Democracy, Development, and the Rule of Law.
Olatunbosun Tijani’s Career Highlights
Before CcHUB, Tijani worked at the International Trade Centre in Geneva, Switzerland, focusing on trade development. He successfully led a web-marketing and information services program in Ghana, Uganda, and Kenya.
Hewlett Packard Days
During his time at Hewlett Packard, Tijani managed various projects, including deploying learning centers in Kenya and Nigeria and supporting initiatives in Egypt and Morocco.
Pera Innovation Network Role
Joining Pera Innovation Network in 2007, Tijani served as the European Innovation Manager, coordinating innovation agencies across Europe and managing projects like the Pan-European Research Network.
Co-Creation Hub (CcHUB) Journey
In 2010, Tijani co-founded CcHUB, a tech innovation center. He spearheaded projects like Lagos Innovation Hotspots, played a role in turning Yaba into a tech hub in Africa, and led CcHUB’s impactful work in sectors like healthcare, education, and cybersecurity.
Tijani’s Family
Olatunbosun Tijani lives in Abuja, Nigeria, and Leicester, United Kingdom, with his wife, Moji Tijani, and their three children.
Recognitions
Olatunbosun’s exceptional leadership and innovative mindset have earned him numerous accolades and prestigious awards.
His contributions to the startup ecosystem have been acknowledged both locally and internationally, solidifying his position as a respected figure in the industry. He received an award from Desmond Tutu Leadership Fellowship.
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