By Chinenye Anuforo
The Country Manager of Zoho Nigeria, a technology company that makes computer software and web-based commerce tools, Kehinde Ogundare, has described cloud technology as a catalyst for business growth in the country.
He described Nigeria’s entrepreneurial scene as vibrant and brimming with potential to become a regional and global force if only inherent challenges are tackled.
He, however, asserted that cloud-based technologies are crucial for Nigerian businesses to achieve sustainable growth through digital transformation.
“Nigeria’s entrepreneurial spirit is undeniable, but realising this potential requires navigating a challenging landscape, one marked by limited IT resources, complex operational hurdles, and the inertia of traditional business practices”, Ogundare stated.
He emphasised that digital transformation, with cloud technology as a key enabler, is the path to sustainable growth.
He highlighted Nigeria’s burgeoning middle class and tech-savvy population, noting that while the country offers fertile ground for innovation, many businesses are hindered by manual processes. “Traditional growth models lack the agility needed to keep pace with an evolving market. Manual processes lead to inefficiencies, limited data insights hinder informed decision-making, and restricted IT resources stifle innovation”, he explained.
He stressed that digital transformation is not merely about adopting technology, but about scaling efficiently in the digital economy. “Scaling is critical for businesses seeking to expand their market reach, remain competitive, and meet evolving customer demands. Digital tools enable businesses to amplify their impact, drive revenue growth, and optimize costs, ensuring long-term sustainability” Ogundare said.
According to him, cloud-based solutions offer significant advantages by eliminating the need for costly infrastructure investments. “Cloud-based platforms offer businesses access to cutting-edge technology on a flexible, scalable basis. By automating repetitive tasks, streamlining workflows, and enhancing productivity, these platforms free up valuable resources, allowing businesses to focus on strategy and customer engagement”, he explained.
He pointed to Zoho’s integrated SaaS platform as a prime example, offering a unified ecosystem to manage all business facets. “By providing a centralised suite of applications, it automates workflows, reduces manual data entry, and improves team collaboration. Businesses can reduce operational costs and accelerate decision-making, ultimately enabling faster expansion into new markets.”
Ogundare also emphasised Zoho’s focus on contextual intelligence and customer privacy. “In a market where customer experience is paramount, Zoho’s AI-powered insights enable businesses to personalize interactions, anticipate needs, and strengthen customer relationships. Zoho’s unwavering commitment to customer privacy also ensures that businesses can leverage data responsibly, fostering trust and long-term loyalty”.
Zoho’s holistic approach, optimizing the entire technology stack, ensures seamless integration and optimal performance, Ogundare explained. “This holistic approach translates into better technology for Nigerian businesses, enabling them to focus on their core competencies without being weighed down by technical complexities.”
He asserted that digital transformation is no longer optional for Nigerian businesses. “By embracing cloud-based technology, they can overcome traditional growth barriers, scale efficiently, and unlock their full potential. The future of Nigerian business is digital. By adopting the cloud, businesses can transform challenges into opportunities, paving the way for sustainable growth in an increasingly competitive global marketplace”, he stated.