Task Systems’ Microsoft Partner of the Year Win: More Than Just an Award
Task Systems, a Nigerian tech firm, snagged Microsoft’s coveted Partner of the Year Award. It’s a big deal, no doubt. But beyond the headlines, what does this victory really signify? And what implications does it hold for the Nigerian tech scene and the broader African digital economy?
The award itself, presented in San Francisco, pitted Task Systems against a global field of over 4,000 entrants. That they emerged victorious underscores something significant: the increasing maturity and competitiveness of African tech companies on a global stage. It’s a re-branding opportunity for Nigeria. It tells the world that Nigeria is a real contender for innovation and investment.
Task Systems isn’t exactly new to the game. Founded almost four decades ago by Leo Stan Ekeh under the Zinox Group umbrella, they’ve quietly built a reputation as a dependable force in Nigeria’s ICT sector. Back when digital infrastructure wasn’t the fashionable topic it is now, Task quietly deployed expert ICT pros to keep things running smoothly for major players like Shell and Chevron. They crafted early IT architectures for banks and media companies. Their history reveals a pattern of being the reliable “engine room” for critical operations. The 27 global awards they have gotten over the years shows how much impact they’ve had in the ICT world.
The ascent of Gozy Ijogun to CEO has been key to Task Systems’ current trajectory. Her background is impressive – degrees from University College London (UCL) and the London School of Economics (LSE). Before taking the reins at Task, she launched TD-Mobile, which revolutionized mobile device distribution across Nigeria. Tasking her with leading Task Systems on April 1st, 2023 was no joke. Her vision was to make the company the best tech company in Africa.
Since Ijogun took over, Task Systems has demonstrably stepped up its game. She’s pushed for more innovation, strengthened partnerships, and broadened their digital solutions across different areas.
It’s worth pointing out that Task Systems has also recently secured some important certifications: ISO/IEC 27001 (Information Security Management Systems), ISO/IEC 22301 (Business Continuity Management), and SOC 2 Audit Compliance. Those accreditations speak to a seriousness about security, reliability, and operational discipline.
Ijogun, in her remarks, emphasized the importance of partnerships, acknowledging the support of the Nigerian government, major banks, and corporations like MTN and Dangote Group. She also recognized the help given by international clients like Bank of Ghana. She wants to push Task to a greater height in innovation in Africa.
Here’s where things get interesting. This award isn’t just about tech skills; it’s about impact. It spotlights companies that reshape industries, enable digital growth, deliver measurable results, and elevate customer experiences. Task System’s contributions range from cloud solutions to cybersecurity and workplace upgrades. They have shown that world class tech solutions can come from Africa.
In essence, Task Systems’ win acts as a powerful validator. It validates that African companies can compete and win on a global playing field. It validates that local knowledge, when combined with global expertise, can produce transformative solutions.
Still, let’s not paint too rosy a picture. Challenges remain. The African tech landscape, while burgeoning, still faces hurdles related to infrastructure, funding, and talent development. Sustaining this momentum will require ongoing investment and collaboration.
It’s not just about celebrating individual successes; it’s about leveraging those successes to inspire and empower the next generation of African innovators. It’s about creating an ecosystem where more companies like Task Systems can flourish.
So, what’s the takeaway? Task Systems’ Microsoft Partner of the Year Award is more than just a trophy. It’s a symbol of progress, a testament to potential, and a call to action. It signifies a turning point in the narrative of African tech, from a story of promise to a story of tangible achievement. This is only the beginning for Task Systems.
With leaders like Gozy Ijogun at the helm and strategic alliances like the one with Microsoft in place, Task Systems is indeed poised to lead the next chapter of Africa’s digital evolution. This award confirms it. The company doesn’t just participate in the revolution. They lead it.
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