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Apex Network has marked its fifth anniversary with an industry event themed “The African Digital Economy: Building the Infrastructure for the Next Billion Users”.
The gathering, held at the Landmark Event Centre, brought together technology leaders, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to discuss the systems and partnerships required to expand Africa’s digital economy and prepare for the next wave of online participation.
The forum explored the technologies, policies, and innovations that can drive inclusive digital growth across the continent. It also examined how scalable systems could empower individuals, businesses, and governments while laying the groundwork for sustainable growth and seamless connectivity for the next billion Africans joining the digital economy.
Speaking at the event, Apex Network Founder and CEO, Abraham Ifemela, described the company as “a secure platform that allows its users to buy, sell, and swap cryptocurrency with ease”.
He said Apex is committed to “simplifying digital finance to all Africans” and positioning itself as a driver of accessible financial technology across the continent.
When asked about the role of the digital economy in youth employment, Ifemela stated that “it has created new ways for people to start making money online, you can even make much more than what you make from your 9 to 5 by understanding the market and investing right”. While encouraging young people to take advantage of opportunities in the crypto space, he acknowledged that regulation remains a challenge.
He pointed out that authorities such as the Securities and Exchange Commission are “working on crypto licensing” and engaging with innovators to better understand the technology.
On the subject of artificial intelligence (AI), Ifemela was clear in his view that “it has done more good than harm”. He noted that AI tools allow innovators to solve problems more efficiently, cutting down the time previously spent researching multiple sources of information. According to him, AI can simplify complex information and make knowledge more widely accessible, even to those who might previously have been excluded due to cost or location.
He added that new technology builders should “first build in their local market before scaling”, revealing that Apex currently operates in over seven African countries but is focused on understanding compliance requirements across the continent before entering more regulated markets abroad.
James John James, Engineering Manager at Apex, addressed the impact of digital technology on the entertainment industry. He explained that the company is developing a “business suite” that will enable creators, entertainers, and businesses to accept payments in multiple formats, including cryptocurrency, traditional bank transfers, and other digital channels. He said this could help remove friction between finance and entertainment, opening up opportunities for creators to reach global audiences. On AI’s effect on creativity, James argued that “it is reshaping creativity, it makes you creative in prompt creation and amplifies ideas”.
Gbenga Ogunbiyi, Marketing Manager at Apex Network, said that for platforms serving up to a billion users, success depends on more than just popularity. They must have strong traction and “top-notch cybersecurity architecture” to manage massive engagement and guard against attacks.
Reflecting on how digital platforms have changed opportunities for young people, he noted that “in the last 20 years, access to resources and platforms like TikTok and Instagram has made it easier to showcase talent without needing a record label”. In the past, he said, musicians relied on top record labels for commercial success, but social media now gives them direct access to audiences. His message to young people: “Keep building, one day, success will come.”
Other speakers included Adewale Yusuf, CEO and Co-Founder of AltSchool Africa; Joy Alabi-Hundeyin, Head of People and Operations at Apex Network; and David Efemena Ominiabohs, Chief Technology Officer at Apex Network. The event also featured product showcases from Basewallet, Lenco, and Zorvia, giving attendees the opportunity to explore new tools and services shaping Africa’s digital future.
Apex Network used its anniversary to reaffirm its mission of enabling secure, seamless transactions and contributing to Africa’s journey toward a digitally connected future. With a growing presence in multiple African countries and plans to expand further, the company aims to play a key role in building the infrastructure that will support the continent’s next billion digital users.