Task Systems Wins Microsoft Award: A Boost for Nigerian Tech, But What’s the Real Story?

Task Systems, a Nigerian tech outfit and part of the Zinox Group, snagged a Microsoft Best Partner Award. Announced at Microsoft Ignite 2025 in California, this win places them among a select group from over 4,600 nominees worldwide. Notably, they were the sole recipient from West Africa. Certainly, this shines a light on the burgeoning tech scene in Nigeria.

Gozy Ijogun, Task Systems’ CEO, accepted the award, hailing it as a testament to Nigerian tech ingenuity. She properly thanked the Nigerian government, alongside multinational and local business allies who have sustained the organization. Task Systems says the recognition encourages the company to innovate more, be more technically efficient and engage with stakeholders more. It makes one wonder, what does this really mean for the average Nigerian?
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Microsoft emphasizes the award’s significance, citing innovation, technical excellence, and inclusivity among the key criteria. The awards spanned various categories, judging companies on global competitiveness, solution quality, and adherence to corporate governance standards. Task Systems clearly ticked those boxes.

The company started as an indigenous start-up in 1987. It now functions as a systems integrator that avails information and communication technology solutions to its clients. Over the years, Task Systems became a partner for businesses in search of technology infrastructure, enterprise solutions and support services. And has been involved in deployments. At one point, Task Systems provided 257 technology experts to big companies like Shell, Chevron and Total. It’s a solid track record, to be sure.

Ijogun took the helm as CEO in April 2023. Reportedly, she has guided the company to broaden its operations, bolster its financials, and accumulate even more international accolades. The Microsoft award adds to a collection of over 27 global awards. Not a bad run.
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It’s worth noting Ijogun’s background. She comes from a family deeply entrenched in the tech world. Her father, Leo Stan Ekeh, founded the Zinox Group. Her mother, Lady Chioma Ekeh, leads TD Africa, a major tech distributor. Even her siblings participate in tech-related activities, cementing the family’s involvement in the sector. She has a masters in accounting, organizations and institutions from the London School of Economics and launched TD Mobile, a mobile device distribution company. She has an exceptional background.

She occupied the seat of managing director of TD Africa, introduced new products and grew the company’s reseller network. She improved financing options for partners. Her resume includes senior management programs at Harvard, focusing on leadership. This exposure, coupled with her experience, appears to have provided her with a nuanced view of the digital economy.

Beyond business, she spearheaded “This is Me,” a TD Africa CSR program that supports marginalized groups. This initiative, with backing from multinationals, advocates for inclusion and dignity. It strikes a chord, given the frequent lack of social responsibility among tech companies.

Since her appointment as Tasks System CEO, she has guided the company’s operations, while overseeing projects and partnerships.

This award sounds like a victory, especially for a Nigerian company in a competitive global landscape. But let’s dig a little deeper. Is this recognition merely a PR boost, or does it signify something more substantive? How does this award translate into tangible benefits for the Nigerian tech ecosystem, or for the average citizen? That remains to be seen.

One thing is certain: Nigeria’s tech sector continues to mature. Success stories like Task Systems contribute to a narrative of progress and potential. The talent is there; the ambition is evident. The challenge now lies in fostering an environment where such achievements become the norm, not the exception. We need to be asking more questions about how these wins trickle down and positively impact the wider economy.

The Microsoft partnership provides access to resources, technologies, and a global network. Yet, it also entails a degree of reliance. Does this partnership truly empower Task Systems, or does it create a dependency that could stifle independent innovation? It’s a delicate balance.

Ultimately, Task Systems’ success reflects a broader trend: the growing importance of technology in driving economic growth in Africa. The company’s journey from a small start-up to an internationally recognized player embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship and resilience. Nevertheless, true progress lies not just in individual achievements, but in creating a sustainable and inclusive tech ecosystem. That’s the real challenge ahead. This is not just about the technology sector. This is about real progress.

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Keywords: Task Systems, Microsoft Award, Nigerian Tech, Zinox Group, Gozy Ijogun, West Africa Tech, TD Africa, Leo Stan Ekeh