By Martin Ekpeke
Dr. Krishnan Ranganath, Regional Executive for West Africa at Africa Data Centres, recently emphasized how the rise of smart devices and the explosion of information are fundamentally reshaping daily life, driven by the digital revolution and the interconnectedness of the internet.
Dr. Krishnan, who was honored as “Digital Economic Trailblazer of the Year” at the 2025 Digital Innovation Awards in Ghana, shared his valuable insights on TechnyFire, a TVC programme titled ‘The Internet, IoT, and Data,’ anchored by Oladapo Aruwajoye. With three decades of experience, including spearheading the construction of numerous data centers across West Africa, Dr. Krishnan is a pivotal figure in advancing Africa’s digital landscape.
Understanding Data Centres and the Essence of Data
Dr. Krishnan clarified Africa Data Centres’ role within the larger Cassava Group (Cassava Technologies), one of Africa’s leading IT conglomerates. “In simple terms, we are a digital archive, digital storage, or secured location for your data and a connectivity ecosystem,” he explained. He then defined data itself: “Any information captured digitally that is highly confidential, needed, and critical is data.”
The Symbiotic Relationship: Internet and Data
Distinguishing between the two, Dr. Krishnan elaborated, “The internet is a medium to communicate. Data, however, is not just a byproduct, but the main product. Without data, the internet lacks validity.” He offered a relatable example: “When we go to Google or YouTube to watch movies, that movie is data, content sitting somewhere. The internet connects you to that data or those available sources.”
Bridging Generations: Data’s Evolution
With over 20 years in the industry, Dr. Krishnan bridges the gap between “old and new” generations. He noted the significant difference between his generation and Gen Z, highlighting that while data has always existed, its current digital form is new. He drew a parallel to traditional banking ledgers, illustrating that “even in the ‘stone ages,’ data existed, but not in the way we keep it now – in a digital way. That’s the only difference; we’re just changing the approaches.”
The Pervasive Influence of AI
Discussing Artificial Intelligence, Dr. Krishnan stated, “AI is practically taking over your life.” He highlighted its benefits, such as providing “valid outputs based on individuals, behaviors, and businesses, offering more futuristic and predictive analysis when used correctly.” However, he also cautioned about its potential downsides, stressing that “the negative aspects stem from how people use it.” He lauded Nigeria’s proactive approach, noting that the “Honorable Minister came up with a framework for how to use AI and how not to use it” over a year ago.
Globally, there are 8,000 to 9,000 data centers, with over 45-50% in the US and a significant portion in Europe. Africa, with 54 countries, hosts approximately 180 to 190 data centers, primarily concentrated in South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. “Nigeria currently has around 14 data centers, and more are coming,” he revealed.
Data: The New Oil
Looking to the future, Dr. Krishnan declared, “Remember the old times when oil was the money? Data is everything; data is the new oil. This is a fact.” He exemplified this with Nigeria’s population: “We’re talking about 225 million people – that is data. Without that number, the government can’t plan anything.”
Navigating the Digital Future: Essential Advice
Offering guidance for the evolving digital landscape, Dr. Krishnan underscored that “change is the only constant.” His key advice centers on trust and embracing technology. “Technology is going to drive everything, whether you like it or not. Human life is driven by technology. Unless you believe in that, you won’t be comfortable.” He concluded by reiterating the paramount importance of security: “Nobody can run a data center without secured infrastructure because it secures your data.”