Nnamdi Ezeigbo, the Brain Behind Techno and Infinix in Nigeria 

BY EMMANUEL CHIDERA AMOKE

While Techno and Infinix are widely recognized brands, not everyone is aware that the mastermind behind these brands is a Nigerian of Igbo descent. Engr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo, a highly driven and goal-oriented entrepreneur, is the brain behind the dual sim Techno and Infinix phones you see and buy in the market. Nnamdi was born on August 4, 1966, in Sapele, Delta State, into the family of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Ezeigbo. Originally hailing from Nsukwe in Ubakala, Umuahia, Abia State, he is the eldest of nine siblings.

He embarked on his educational journey by studying Electrical Electronics Engineering at Yaba College of Technology in 1988, earning a higher national diploma. His quest for knowledge led him to pursue a degree in Computer and Electronics Engineering at Lagos State University (LASU) in 1996, from which he graduated with second-class honors. Subsequently, he furthered his education at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology in Ogbomosho, Oyo State, where he obtained a master’s degree in information and management technology. In 2013, Engr. Ezeigbo successfully completed an Executive MBA at Lagos Business School and currently serves as a member of the Advisory Committee at Africa Retail Academy. In November 2021, he was honored with an Honorary Doctorate Degree of Business Administration (DBA) by Abia State University, Uturu.

After completing his diploma, Nnamdi chose an apprenticeship in phone and computer repairs, a decision made due to a lack of employment opportunities. He dedicated six months to learning from his mentor and then set up his own business while squatting with a friend.

The Techno initiative was conceived at a time when Nigerians had to use two phones to accommodate multiple SIM cards. Nnamdi proposed this idea first to Nokia, but it was rejected. Undeterred, he traveled to China, where he convinced the manufacturer of Techno phones to accept his proposal, resulting in the creation of the Techno T101 and subsequently, Techno T201. He also gained the opportunity to brand his phones.

Following the success of Techno, there was a growing need for more advanced yet affordable devices, leading to the development of Infinix mobile. Infinix phones offered similar features to Techno phones but with enhanced capabilities.

Nnamdi’s SLOT company, established in 1998, has grown to encompass over 70 retail stores nationwide, including Lagos, Abuja, Rivers State, Enugu, Oyo, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Kwara, Cross River, Osun, Delta, Ekiti, Edo, Abia, Imo, Kano, Ogun, Anambra, with over 40 branches and an online store (www.slot.ng).

Beyond founding the SLOT brand, Nnamdi Ezeigbo serves as the chairman of the Ezeigbo SLOT Foundation. Through the SLOT Academy, the foundation has provided training in mobile phone and laptop repairs to young Nigerians, empowering them with the skills required in the digital world, fostering self-sufficiency, wealth creation, and value contribution to Nigerian society.

Engr. Nnamdi Ezeigbo is also an author, having published the book titled “Entrepreneurship the SLOT WAY.” 

Today, Infinix and Techno have become some of the most sought-after mobile devices in the Nigerian market, tailored to meet the demands of every Nigerian. Nnamdi’s retail outlet, SLOT, has emerged as a major dealer across the country, making the SLOT brand synonymous with quality mobile phones, accessories, laptops, computers, and electronics.