In a significant boost for Nigeria’s technology sector, Cynthia Alabi, Enterprise Sales Manager at Uber Technologies System Nigeria Ltd, has been named Tech Business Development Manager of the Year at the 6th Nigeria Technology Awards (NiTA), 2020.
The award recognizes Alabi’s outstanding contribution to the tech industry, her humanitarian efforts, and her role in fighting the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is incredibly encouraging,” Alabi said in an interview. “It’s not easy thinking of new ideas, advocating for businesses, and pushing innovation in tech every day. Being recognised externally means a lot.”
NiTA, hosted by Beta Media Group in partnership with nonprofit Community Support Advocacy, honours individuals and organisations driving change through technology. This year’s edition highlights innovators who used tech to support communities through the pandemic.
Alabi was celebrated for her work with Uber in partnering with Nigeria’s Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs during the peak of COVID-19, helping to distribute palliatives to vulnerable households. “That initiative alone showed how tech can be a real solution provider,” she said.
Felix Nnuji, Event Director of NiTA, said Alabi’s recognition was well-deserved. “Her leadership and dedication to leveraging technology for humanitarian support stood out to the Advisory Board,” Nnuji said. “The Nigeria Technology Awards are not just about innovation; they are about impact, and Cynthia exemplifies both.”
Reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, Alabi said the crisis forced organizations to rethink business models. “COVID created opportunities. Businesses had to adapt; many leaned into digital delivery models and remote operations. That’s innovation,” she said.
She believes recovery lies in lean process reviews and more innovative use of technology. “Companies now realise they don’t need to keep fleet cars as ride-hailing works. Physical meetings aren’t always necessary. Virtual collaboration saves money and time.”
Alabi said she remains focused on growing Uber’s B2B segment in Nigeria. “It’s beyond revenue. It’s about forming meaningful partnerships and solving real problems.”
The NiTA Advisory Board stated that nominees were selected after a “thorough screening process,” adding that the awards aim to spotlight efforts that blend innovation, impact, and kindness.
The award ceremony also featured a community outreach project in which winning companies donated relief materials to needy households.
Cynthia Alabi’s recognition reinforces Uber Nigeria’s role in driving innovation, resilience, and social impact at a time when these qualities are most needed.