In today’s dynamic business landscape, access to substantial capital is no longer the sole determinant of success for startups. Mr. Femi Adeoti, Co-founder and Group Managing Director of Routelink Group, articulated this crucial point at the ICTEL EXPO 2025 held in Lagos. He underscored the transformative power of technology, emphasizing its role as a “great equalizer” that allows businesses to scale rapidly without the traditionally required massive financial investments. Adeoti’s message challenged the conventional notion that significant capital is a prerequisite for growth, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). He emphasized the role of strategic technological deployment and partnerships as key drivers of expansion, effectively shifting the focus from financial barriers to ingenuity and strategic vision.
Adeoti’s assertion was rooted in the increasing accessibility and affordability of technology infrastructure. He highlighted how cloud-based solutions, readily available and often more cost-effective than traditional on-premise systems, can empower startups to reach wider audiences and markets. These digital tools enable businesses to compete on a larger scale, bypassing the historically prohibitive cost barriers associated with scaling operations. This paradigm shift, facilitated by technology, democratizes access to market opportunities, placing greater emphasis on creative problem-solving and a clear understanding of business objectives. Essentially, Adeoti proposed that capital, while important, is no longer the primary hurdle; rather, the ability to leverage technology effectively, combined with a sharp business acumen, determines success.
The discussion, part of a panel session titled “Financial Technology Innovation and Business Growth of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises in Africa,” provided a platform for prominent business leaders and innovators to share insights and explore the evolving relationship between technology, finance, and business growth. The panel included Mrs. Modupe Ladipo, Founder of Prospera Consulting; Mr. Segun Akintemi, CEO of Page Financials; Mr. Deremi Atanda, Managing Director of Remita Payment Services; and Mr. Solomon Ayodele, Head of Corporate Transformation and Innovation at Wema Bank. Moderated by Mr. Seye Obisesan, MD of Bright Trends Consulting, the session fostered a rich exchange of ideas, focusing on the opportunities and challenges facing SMEs in the African context.
Adeoti’s call for increased collaboration between fintech innovators and regulatory bodies further highlighted the importance of a supportive ecosystem for startup success. He argued that a balanced regulatory environment, one that encourages innovation while mitigating risks, is crucial for fostering SME growth. The removal of unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles and the implementation of policies that promote technological adoption can significantly contribute to a more vibrant and competitive business landscape. This collaboration between innovators and regulators is essential to ensure that the regulatory framework keeps pace with the rapid advancements in technology and facilitates, rather than hinders, the growth of SMEs.
Routelink Group, the ICT company led by Adeoti, exemplifies the transformative potential of technology. Specializing in cybersecurity, telecoms, and payment solutions, the company empowers businesses across various sectors with cutting-edge tools and strategies. Their commitment to driving digital transformation initiatives underscores the increasing importance of technology in achieving business objectives. By providing innovative solutions, Routelink actively contributes to the growth and development of SMEs and corporations, both within Nigeria and internationally, aligning with Adeoti’s vision of a technology-driven business landscape.
The ICTEL EXPO 2025, themed “Connect, Learn, Grow,” served as a vital platform for industry stakeholders to converge and explore the latest trends and opportunities in the ICT sector. Organized by the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the event attracted hundreds of participants, including industry players, policymakers, tech founders, and innovators. Through exhibitions, business pitches, panel discussions, and networking sessions, ICTEL EXPO 2025 fostered a dynamic environment for knowledge sharing, collaboration, and innovation, further solidifying the role of technology as a catalyst for economic growth and development in the African context. The event provided a crucial space for exploring the potential of technology to transform the business landscape and empower entrepreneurs, particularly within the SME sector.
