Funke Opeke has established herself as one of Africa’s most influential technology leaders, pioneering digital infrastructure that has reshaped connectivity across West Africa. As the founder and CEO of MainOne, she spearheaded the development of West Africa’s first privately owned open-access submarine fiber-optic cable system, connecting the region to Europe and enabling faster, more reliable internet for millions. Her work has positioned her as a trailblazer in technology, business leadership, and regional economic development.
Born in Nigeria, Opeke earned a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Obafemi Awolowo University and a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University in New York. Her early career took her to the United States, where she worked as Executive Director of the Wholesale Division at Verizon Communications, gaining experience that would later inform her leadership of MainOne. She returned to Nigeria, contributing her expertise as Chief Technical Officer at MTN Nigeria, advising Transcorp, and briefly serving as Chief Operating Officer of NITEL, demonstrating a deep commitment to advancing technology and telecommunications in Africa.
In 2008, she founded MainOne, which under her leadership, became a cornerstone of West Africa’s digital ecosystem. The company not only built a submarine cable system but also developed Tier III data centers in Lagos, Accra, and Abidjan, supporting cloud computing, hosting, and digital services across multiple countries. In 2024, MainOne was acquired by Equinix for $320 million, and Opeke transitioned to a strategic advisory role, continuing to guide digital infrastructure development in the region.
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Opeke’s work has earned her significant recognition. She has been named CNBC All Africa Businesswoman of the Year, included among Africa’s Most Powerful Women in Technology, and recognised by Forbes as one of the World’s Top 50 Women in Tech. She was also awarded Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by the Nigerian government and, in 2024, received a distinguished award from Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) for her leadership and impact.
Beyond corporate achievement, Opeke has played a role in shaping policy and mentorship for Africa’s technology sector. She joined the Board of Trustees of the Shell Foundation and has contributed to national broadband development initiatives, reflecting her broader vision of using technology as a driver of economic growth and inclusion.
Funke Opeke exemplifies how visionary leadership, technical expertise, and entrepreneurial courage can transform industries. Through MainOne and her ongoing advisory roles, she continues to expand Africa’s digital frontier, creating opportunities, inspiring innovation, and empowering the next generation of African tech leaders.
