Funke Opeke is a Nigerian engineer, entrepreneur, and telecom infrastructure pioneer, best known as the Founder and former CEO of MainOne, a leading provider of internet infrastructure and data services in West Africa. She is widely recognized for her transformative role in expanding broadband access and improving connectivity across the region.
Born in Nigeria, Funke Opeke pursued a degree in Electrical Engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University before furthering her education in the United States. She earned a Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering from Columbia University, equipping her with advanced technical expertise that would shape her career.
Opeke began her professional journey in the United States, working in the telecommunications industry with global firms such as Verizon Communications. During her time abroad, she gained extensive experience in network engineering and infrastructure development, building a strong foundation in telecom systems.
She later returned to Nigeria and worked as the Chief Technical Officer at MTN Nigeria, where she played a key role in expanding the company’s network and improving service delivery. However, recognizing the urgent need for reliable broadband infrastructure in West Africa, she took a bold step to address the gap.
In 2008, Funke Opeke founded MainOne with the vision of delivering high-speed internet connectivity to West Africa. She led the development of a 7,000-kilometer submarine fiber-optic cable system connecting Nigeria to Europe, significantly reducing the cost of internet access and improving bandwidth availability in the region.
Under her leadership, MainOne expanded beyond submarine cables into data centers, enterprise connectivity, and cloud services, becoming a critical player in Africa’s digital infrastructure ecosystem. Her work has enabled businesses, governments, and individuals to access faster and more reliable internet services, contributing to the growth of Nigeria’s digital economy.
Funke Opeke’s achievements have earned her numerous awards and international recognition. She is widely regarded as one of Africa’s most influential women in technology and a role model for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs.
Through her vision and leadership, Funke Opeke has played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for internet growth in West Africa, making her one of the most impactful tech leaders on the continent.