Tuesday, June 16, 2026

The Sun Nigeria

Benjamin Oyemonlan: The architect of Africa’s digital future

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In the bustling landscape of Africa’s burgeoning tech scene, certain names resonate with an undeniable force. Among them is Benjamin Oyemonlan, professionally known as Trillbjm, a Nigerian technology executive whose visionary leadership has not only shaped the continent’s digital economy but also extended its influence across global markets.

From pioneering Africa’s first Bitcoin-powered card to guiding over 50 startups to international prominence, Oyemonlan stands as a testament to innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.

At the heart of Trillbjm’s impressive portfolio is his role as Founder and CEO of Platnova, a lifestyle-centric digital finance platform. Platnova is more than just a financial tool; it’s a bridge for global connectivity, offering multi-currency wallets, virtual and physical USD cards, worldwide bill payments, and even travel solutions. This venture epitomizes Oyemonlan’s commitment to solving real-world challenges with innovative digital solutions.

His journey to becoming a fintech luminary began with a groundbreaking achievement: developing Africa’s first Bitcoin-linked payment card while serving as CTO of Patricia Technologies in 2020. This breakthrough, enabling seamless crypto-fiat transactions, solidified his reputation as a leading innovator and earned him the title of the Youngest Blockchain CTO in Africa. His expertise has since been sought after by high-growth startups like Gloverapp, Hank Device, and Room Xix, where he has contributed to scalable product architecture in blockchain, payment infrastructure, and digital wallets.

But Oyemonlan’s impact extends far beyond a single innovation. As Co-Founder of Zap Africa, a decentralized crypto exchange, he is democratizing access to digital assets across the continent. With BJM MULTISERVICES, a consulting firm, he’s facilitating market entry and regulatory compliance for startups expanding into diverse international markets, including North America, the UK, UAE, and Europe. Even in the realm of real estate, his co-founding of Shortlet.app is revolutionizing short-term rentals in major African cities.

Recognized with accolades such as an Honorary Doctorate in Fintech & Leadership and the Most Innovative Blockchain CTO by the IFM Forum in Dubai, Oyemonlan’s influence is global. He holds dual residency in the UK and UAE, and his operational footprint spans Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Europe. His work is not just about technology; it’s about fostering financial inclusion and empowering the next generation of tech talent, a philosophy encapsulated in his guiding mantra: “Create your own opportunities.”

Benjamin Oyemonlan isn’t just building companies; he’s building an ecosystem, driven by a solutions-first mindset and an unwavering belief in the power of innovation to transform lives.