Digital services can help curb corruption — Dell Country Lead, Abimbola Owoeye

The Country Lead (Nigeria) at Dell Technologies, Abimbola Owoeye, speaks to OGHENOVO EGODO-MICHAEL about his career, the tech industry and other issues

What inspired you to pursue a career in technology?

I graduated with a B.Tech in Applied Geophysics from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, Ondo State. My initial plan was to take on a career as a geoscientist. However, during my time as a National Youth Service Corps member, I was placed in the currency processing office at the Central Bank of Nigeria. This was a turning point for me. It was one of the few departments with computers back in 2002, and getting hands-on experience with them sparked my interest in information technology.

At that time, tech companies were just beginning to emerge in Nigeria but only a few caught my eye, like the Computer Warehouse Group and other budding startups.
Sunsequently, I realised that my interests extended to the business side of IT. This passion for the tech business steadily grew. It wasn’t easy at first because like many young people, I was figuring out my direction. As my NYSC year wrapped up, I prayed for guidance and I felt a strong sense that technology was where I was meant to be. Faith and curiosity led me to this exciting industry, and I haven’t looked back.

What makes information technology interesting to you?

What fascinates me most about technology is that it never stops evolving. I’ve watched tech grow from its early days, and it is incredible to see how far we have come. The field is in constant motion; what’s trendy today can be outdated tomorrow, which means there’s always something new to learn. It’s impossible to get bored because the pace of change keeps you on your toes.
Looking back, I remember when we thought desktop computers with Pentium processors were revolutionary. Now, they can barely support modern applications. The  arrival of mobile phones in Nigeria was a huge leap. Technology has completely reshaped our lives since then, especially with the power of the internet. Uber, for instance wouldn’t even be a possibility without the internet. It is the web that connects people to their rides and powers the service.

This constant innovation is what makes technology so rewarding. It’s exciting to be part of an industry where you can look back and see just how much has changed in a short time, knowing that there’s still so much more to come.

You mentioned that constant innovation excites you, but it sounds like a lot to keep up with. How do you stay abreast of trends?

Working at Dell gives me an inside view of tech trends and innovation, which is a huge advantage. In this industry, you can’t just sit back; you have to keep transforming, innovating, and looking ahead. If you don’t, you risk becoming irrelevant. I have been fortunate to witness Dell’s own evolution, starting as a PC company to becoming one of the world’s leading technology infrastructure provides. Today, Dell’s technology supports sectors that form the backbone of many economies, from banking to telecommunications. It is exciting to know that we’re equipping businesses worldwide with the tools they need to stay competitive.

At Dell, we’re encouraged to learn and relearn, which keeps us adaptable. Right now, Artificial Intelligence is the buzzword, and I believe any business that doesn’t adapt to AI will go extinct in future. The tech adoption trend is making everything, from shopping to logistics, more efficient. One can  order whatever one needs with just a tap on the phone and get it without the need for large storage facilities or shelves full of expiring products. Amazon is a prime example of this shift. The convenience of ordering from anywhere and getting delivery is changing how we think about stores entirely and this trend isn’t confined to the West. For Nigeria, and other parts of the world, catching up with the global tech landscape is essential. As technology advances, so do the possibilities, and I’m excited to be part of that journey.

What do you envision as the future of tech in Nigeria?

I see huge opportunities for tech in Nigeria. Although we often start by adopting advancements from other countries, it could be to our advantage. In the financial sector, Nigeria’s banking technology is among the most advanced and secure globally, largely because we were able to skip older, outdated solutions and move straight to innovative, future-ready ones. Our bank cards, for instance, are some of the most secure available anywhere.
The tech market here is also wide open. Even older generations, who didn’t grow up with the internet, have embraced digital platforms like WhatsApp because they can see the value in them. Nowadays, phones are more essential than computers for most of us, as it is  loaded with apps that allow us to manage finances, connect with people, and even run businesses from anywhere. Life in Nigeria is going digital, and it will only continue.

With this digital transformation, we’re finding ways to do more with less. I believe we’ll see even greater innovation in tech-driven solutions across industries, and Nigeria’s readiness to adopt and build on these technologies is what makes the future here so exciting.

Over your 18 years in the industry, what key skills have you developed that you believe are essential for achieving success?

In the tech industry, especially on the business side, success often comes down to building meaningful connections and understanding the numbers. One of the most valuable skills I’ve developed is the ability to connect with people, understand their needs, and help them achieve their goals through technology. I remember my time at CWG Plc, where I worked with a telecom company in its early stages. At that time, they had about 18 million subscribers, and I watched as that number grew to 20 million, then 40 million, then 60 million. It was incredible to witness that growth and play a role in enabling it by providing tech solutions that aligned with their business goals.

Along the way, I learnt that one of the most critical skills in sales is building trust. People buy from those they trust, and it’s essential to stand out by offering value in a unique and reliable way. I focus on delivering measurable outcomes that clients can rely on. In a competitive field, being able to showcase success through numbers, achievements, and testimonials sets you apart.

Of course, building trust and connecting with clients takes patience and courage so, it hasn’t always been easy. But with every challenge, I have strengthened my skills in understanding people, adapting to their needs, and earning their trust. That’s the foundation of my approach to success in tech.

How do you navigate the numerous laptops and other products you deal with at Dell?
At Dell, it’s not just about laptops. We  operate two main business units which are the Infrastructure Solutions Group and the Client Solutions Group. The ISG unit focuses on enterprise solutions, covering everything from servers and software to storage and data protection services. The CSG unit is where we deal with our laptops, desktops, and related products. With over 1,000 solutions across these units, keeping track can be quite the challenge.

To help manage this complexity, we leverage Artificial Intelligence to streamline information and assist with product knowledge. Internally, we have a well-structured system that designates business champions for each unit, ensuring that expertise is readily available. I also participate in quarterly training sessions that cover each of our lines of business, which keeps me updated and equipped to understand and sell our solutions effectively.

This allows me to provide the best recommendations to clients, ensuring they find the right technology to meet their needs. So while there are plenty of products to navigate, our structured training and support systems make them manageable.

Can you share a notable experience in your career that significantly changed your perspective?

Throughout my career, I’ve encountered ups and downs, and each has shaped my journey. One particularly challenging experience was when I had to accept the reality of stepping into an individual contributor role. Initially, this felt like a setback, but it ultimately became a pivotal moment for me.

I have always believed that titles don’t define us. While it’s natural to take pride in our achievements and accolades along the way, it’s crucial to remain grounded and not let titles elevate our sense of self-worth. What truly matters is the impact we have on others and the quality of life we cultivate for ourselves and those around us.

This experience taught me to focus less on status and more on the value I bring to my work and the people I interact with. By prioritising meaningful contributions over titles, I’ve found greater fulfillment and purpose in my career. It is all about the legacy we leave in the hearts of others and how we choose to navigate our paths with humility and intention.
Are there any initiatives at Dell Technologies aimed at supporting local startups and entrepreneurs?

Absolutely! At Dell Technologies, we’re deeply invested in supporting local startups and entrepreneurs through a variety of initiatives. We engage in numerous activities and partnerships with schools and organisations that play a vital role in shaping the future of students. These collaborations help young people understand the possibilities that lie ahead and inspire them to define their desired futures.

Giving back to the community is also a key focus for us. My colleagues and I contribute to programs that use our donations to make a positive impact. We often get involved in community service, whether it’s cleaning up the environment, volunteering in schools, or providing gifts that enhance people’s lives.

Recently, we launched an internship program led by one of our business units. This initiative aims to prepare Nigerians for the job market by offering mentorship from professionals across various fields. We’re also focusing on human development through skills acquisition and educational partnerships with the government to enhance learning opportunities.

In the past, we’ve collaborated on developing impactful curricula for universities and worked with local Non Governmental Organisations to deploy solar labs in Lagos, where people can gain valuable digital skills.

On a personal level, I’m passionate about increasing my contributions to social causes. I have partnered with the Headfort Foundation, which focuses on freeing inmates. Last year, we successfully assisted in the release of 416 inmates, and we aim to do even more. Our goal is to help these individuals develop skills while serving their sentences, so they can reintegrate into society without reverting to crime for economic stability.

Overall, Dell is committed to empowering local communities and fostering innovation.
What are the biggest challenges currently facing the technology sector in Nigeria?

When examining the technology landscape in Nigeria, one key challenge stands out: the role of government as a primary driver of tech adoption. A country’s technological growth often depends on how effectively its government embraces and implements tech solutions. Unfortunately, the current political will to adopt technology in Nigeria is lacking. For instance, while there’s a lot of talk about combating corruption when we can curb corruption by adopting digital services. By automating transactions and processes, we can create transparency. If money goes missing, we should be able to follow its trail.

The behavioural patterns we see aren’t unique to Nigerians, they exist everywhere. If individuals feel they can evade consequences, their moral compass may be the only thing that prevents misconduct. This highlights the urgent need for investing in infrastructure that discourages negative behavior and enhances our systems of accountability. For example, our court systems still rely heavily on paper, which leads to lost files and documentation. Embracing technology in governance is essential.

Imagine a scenario where getting a driver’s license could be done completely online, with no human interaction required. We should be able to access services electronically and have everything we need just a click away on our phones. Technology can simplify our lives, and embracing it at every level of governance would allow industries to flourish and make consumption more cost-effective.

Ultimately, we need our leaders to recognise the value that technology can bring to society. With the right investment and commitment to innovation, the potential for development is immense. We have a long way to go, but it all starts with the will of our leadership to prioritise and integrate technology into all aspects of governance and public service.

What impact does your executive education at Harvard Business School have on your role at Dell Technologies?

My executive education at Harvard Business School has had a profound impact on my perspective and role at Dell Technologies. When I first enrolled, the training materials included astonishing figures; like the trillions of dollars in revenue generated by companies such as Apple. It really opened my eyes to the scale of success that’s achievable in the global market. We explored fascinating case studies on iconic products like the iPhone and the market value of iTunes, which was a real eye-opener for me.
Coming from Nigeria, where the government owns many large enterprises, it was truly inspiring to engage with examples of thriving businesses built by individuals. The discussions around these case studies were transformative, especially when I had the opportunity to interact with classmates from diverse backgrounds.

One memorable experience was in a class with a billionaire entrepreneur who owned manufacturing operations in China. He had brought his executives along to discuss a crucial business expansion decision. During our discussions, I suggested exploring opportunities in Africa. However, he expressed skepticism, citing challenges such as inconsistent policies, a lack of skilled labor at scale, and difficulties in attracting investors; contrasting this with the more stable and predictable business environment in the UK.

This dialogue highlighted the complexities of doing business in Africa and made me appreciate the remarkable achievements of entrepreneurs like Aliko Dangote, whose ability to build a successful business and retain talent in Nigeria is commendable.

Overall, the Harvard experience significantly broadened my horizons and transformed my approach to business. It has inspired me to think more critically and creatively about opportunities in emerging markets. It has equipped me with the tools to envision and drive impactful initiatives within my role at Dell, influencing how we can contribute to technology adoption and innovation in Nigeria and beyond.

What is a misconception about tech you would like to correct?

One common misconception I would  like to address is the distinction between being a tech user and being truly immersed in the tech industry. Recently, I spoke with some interns who just joined us, and I emphasised that technology, much like fields such as medicine or banking, is simply a means to an end. The beauty of tech lies in its ability to intersect with virtually every career path.

For example, some digital marketers might say they are in tech, but they’re primarily leveraging technology to enhance their marketing efforts. That’s a different realm than being a tech manufacturer or a developer who creates tech solutions. The tech landscape is vast, and it encompasses both those who build technology and those who use it, but they should not be confused.
What advice do you have for young professionals out there?

To young professionals, I want to stress the importance of character in any field, including tech. No matter how advanced civilisation becomes, foundational qualities like integrity and decency remain invaluable. Employers consistently seek individuals with strong characters because such qualities enhance their overall value. While skills can be learnt, a solid character must be cultivated.

I recall something the CEO of Nvidia, Jensen Huang, said to a group of Stanford students. “I wish upon you ample doses of pain and suffering.” This may sound harsh, but it highlights that enduring challenges helps build resilience. Great character alone isn’t enough, but it serves as a vital foundation. No employer wants to hire someone with impressive skills but a poor character. They seek a balance of both.

Outside of your role as Country Lead for Dell, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?

I enjoy playing video games, especially PS5, and hanging out with friends. I am also a big fan of dancing and music so karaoke nights are some of my favourite ways to let loose. I’m trying to carve out more time to read again, as it’s something I truly enjoy. I also love networking and meeting new people. If making money can be considered a hobby, I certainly enjoy pursuing opportunities that allow me to make money while always striving to do it decently.

Do you have family traditions that hold special meanings for you?

Yes. Coming from a Christian background, my family holds a deep-rooted belief in God, which significantly shapes our values and traditions. We often say, “remember the son of whom you are,” as a reminder of our heritage and the expectations that come with it.
Family gatherings are incredibly meaningful to us, and we try to come together as often as possible. However, as some family members have started their own families, it can be challenging to maintain those traditions consistently.

As a typical Yoruba family, respect is a cornerstone of our interactions. We place a high value on honouring one another and upholding our family’s legacy.

What role does spirituality or religion play in your daily life?

Spirituality and faith play a significant role in my life. While I wouldn’t claim to be perfect, my beliefs guide me and provide a source of strength and joy. My faith influences my actions and decisions, shaping how I interact with the world around me. It’s a constant reminder to strive for personal growth and to seek repentance when needed, which helps me stay grounded in my values.

How do you stay connected with friends and family amidst a demanding career?

I make the most of modern technology to maintain connections with my loved ones. WhatsApp has become a vital tool for keeping in touch, allowing me to reach out easily. I video call my children in Scotland every day, and it’s been wonderful to see our relationship evolve. They have grown to become not just my children but also my friends. Balancing a demanding career with family life can be challenging, but these daily interactions help me stay connected.

How do you react when they exhibit surprising behaviors?
I must say, my children are truly wonderful. Before they moved away, they were well-cultured, and they continue to make me proud. Of course, like any family, we experience our ups and downs. When they exhibit surprising behaviors, we approach it with love and understanding. We strive to communicate openly and supportively. It’s all part of the journey, and I believe that love and patience are key in guiding them through it.

What is your favourite travel destination, and what makes it special to you?

Dubai (United Arab Emirates) holds a special place in my heart. I find it incredibly inspirational. The city has done a remarkable job of attracting people from all cultures and backgrounds, creating a vibrant melting pot of experiences. My first visit to Dubai was back in 1999, and at that time, it wasn’t yet the go-to holiday destination it is today. Since then, I’ve watched it transform into what feels like a blend of heaven and earth. While it may not be perfect, the dramatic changes and growth I have  witnessed there are truly inspiring. There’s also an undeniable sense of security that envelops you while you’re there.

How do you personally celebrate achievements?

When I achieve something, I believe in taking a moment to reflect and give thanks. I often go on my knees to thank God because I recognise that every accomplishment is a privilege. It’s important for me to express gratitude for the opportunities and support that have led to those achievements.

What qualities do you value the most in your friendships?

In friendships, I deeply value authenticity. I don’t want friends who smile and pretend everything is fine while masking their true feelings. The friends I cherish are those who are willing to have difficult conversations and engage in meaningful dialogues.. It’s this trueness and openness that I celebrate in my relationships because it aids deeper connections and mutual growth.