By Sabastine Adonu
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of S. Mobile Tech, Dr Ifeanyi Adonu, has called for increased participation of Nigerian youths in the digital economy, stressing that technology and telecommunications remain critical drivers of business growth and job creation.
Adonu made the call in Enugu shortly after receiving the “Icon of Entrepreneurship Award” from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Enugu State Council.
He noted that the world is rapidly becoming digital and urged young people to acquire relevant technological skills that would enable them create applications, develop innovations and thrive in the evolving global economy.
The telecom entrepreneur described the award as both a privilege and a motivation to continue contributing to economic development through innovation and youth empowerment.
“I am very happy about this award. It is a privilege I do not take for granted. I dedicate it to God and see it as encouragement to continue doing more,” he said.
Adonu explained that his company, S. Mobile Net Zone Limited, operates as a major distribution partner of MTN Nigeria, handling airtime, data and other telecommunications products across the South-East region.
According to him, the company has grown into one of the leading telecom distribution networks in the region, employing about 47 staff members while supporting a wide network of partners and retailers.
He added that the company recorded a major milestone in 2024 when it emerged as the top distributor of MTN products in Nigeria, attributing the achievement to innovative strategies and consistent customer engagement.
“In a competitive industry like telecommunications, strategy is everything. You cannot sit back and wait for customers to come to you. We actively reach out to customers and maintain relationships that encourage repeat patronage,” he said.
Beyond telecommunications distribution, Adonu said he established the S. Mobile Tech Institute to equip young people with relevant digital skills and redirect their talents toward productive ventures.
He explained that the institute provides training in areas such as cybersecurity, robotics, artificial intelligence and software development, with the aim of preparing youths for emerging opportunities in the digital economy.
“The idea is to change the mindset of the youth. Instead of using their knowledge for illegal activities, they can use it to build applications, develop software and create solutions that will benefit society,” he said.
Adonu disclosed that the institute, which was registered in 2024 and officially launched in September 2025, offers both physical and online learning programmes and has already begun attracting students from within and outside Nigeria.
He further revealed that the organisation provides free one-month training programmes for residents of Enugu to encourage wider participation, particularly among young people who may not initially afford the courses.
While highlighting progress in the telecommunications sector, Adonu noted that businesses in the region still face several operational challenges, including infrastructure limitations and intense competition.
He also identified the vandalisation of telecommunications facilities as a major threat to network stability, explaining that damage to telecom masts often disrupts services and places additional pressure on existing infrastructure.
Despite the challenges, he maintained that sustained investment in technology, improved protection of telecom infrastructure and increased public awareness would help strengthen Nigeria’s digital economy and create more opportunities for young entrepreneurs.
