We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Samuel Efosa-Austin. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Samuel below.
Alright, Samuel thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?
The Legacy
For me legacy is important. I would like to be remembered as the man who changed the Economy of Africa creating alternative GDP using data and technology.
As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?
Samuel Efosa-Austin: Leading Africa’s Tech-Driven Future
In every conversation I have, whether on stage, in boardrooms, or in interviews, my message remains the same: Africa’s new economy will be built by us, for us.
Through ECO Africa, we are creating a blueprint for Africa’s future—where Energy = Media + Data + Design drives innovation and investment. With Tech 4 Good Africa, we ensure that technology is a force for impact, connecting policy, startups, and digital transformation. And at the Africa Technology Leadership Academy, we are shaping the next generation of leaders who will define, not just follow, global trends.
For me, this work is more than strategy—it’s a movement. Every time I share my story, I extend an invitation: Let’s build the future of Africa, together.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
Returning to Build: A Story of Resilience
In 2019, I stood at a crossroads. After 16 years of building a career across the USA and UK—immersed in the best of global technology, leadership, and innovation—I felt a deep pull back home. Nigeria, with all its challenges and boundless potential, was calling me.
Many thought I was crazy. “Why leave stability for uncertainty?” they asked. But for me, the real risk wasn’t returning—it was staying away while Africa’s future was being shaped.
The transition wasn’t easy. I had to relearn the system, rebuild networks, and reestablish credibility in a market that had evolved in my absence. There were infrastructure challenges, cultural shifts, and moments of deep frustration. But resilience isn’t about avoiding obstacles—it’s about pushing through them with purpose.
Today, through ECO Africa, Tech 4 Good Africa, and the Africa Technology Leadership Academy, I’m not just navigating the system—I’m helping to reshape it. The move back was never about comfort; it was about impact. And every challenge I’ve faced has reinforced one truth: Africa is worth building for.
How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?
It comes down to vision, execution, and consistency.
Through ECO Africa, Tech 4 Good Africa, and the Africa Technology Leadership Academy, I’ve been driving conversations and building ecosystems that connect people, data, and innovation for investment, and policy. My work spans mentorship, capacity-building, and thought leadership, ensuring that African talent doesn’t just participate in the global tech revolution but leads it.
Returning to Nigeria after 16 years in the US and UK was a defining moment—it tested my resilience and proved that African excellence thrives on the continent. By engaging with global networks, speaking on significant platforms, and mentoring the next generation, I’ve positioned myself as a builder, strategist, and ecosystem leader committed to shaping Africa’s future.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.seatheECO.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecoevangelist?igsh=ZGZnbG0ydmU1azNw&utm_source=qr
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15hnzWvtNw/?mibextid=wwXIfr
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelefosaaustin?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
- Twitter: https://x.com/ecoevangelists?s=21&t=X58fuHTn4P3q-D3Ay6gvLA
- Youtube: https://youtube.com/@samtalkforafrica9936?si=8m5l9iUl1SvzBilT
Image Credits
fliq Media Photographers.