Victor Chukwunonso Okoli, founder of Vnox Technology Inc. (USA) and Vnox Limited (Nigeria), is steadily emerging as one of the most promising new voices in global travel-tech. His mission is clear: bridge the technological gap between Africa and the United States, redefine global travel systems, and empower a new generation of skilled youths through innovation-driven opportunities.

In a statement issued in Onitsha, Anambra State, by Vnox Limited (Nigeria), the company emphasized Okoli’s growing influence as a Nigerian international graduate student contributing meaningfully to U.

S. innovation. His rising travel-technology platform, FlyVnox, currently valued at an estimated $1.7 million, is positioning itself as a competitive player in the global travel ecosystem.

Okoli explained that Vnox Technology was founded to “train, empower more youths, create global employment opportunities, and drive business growth through our coming B2B portal inside the FlyVnox app.” The platform’s new B2B system aims to support travel agencies, entrepreneurs, and businesses across Africa and the diaspora—giving them access to modern tools, previously inaccessible technologies, and global opportunities.

Several young men and women are already employed under the expanding Vnox group, with more expected to join as the brand grows internationally.

Born and raised in Eastern Nigeria, Okoli’s early life exposed him to the realities and frustrations faced by international travelers and diaspora communities. After moving to the United States for graduate studies, he transformed those experiences into a bold technological vision—building systems that connect continents and create seamless mobility for users worldwide.

At the center of that vision is the FlyVnox app, a modern airline-ticketing platform built with global users in mind. Combining American engineering precision with African mobility realities, FlyVnox offers international flight search, multi-currency support, secure payments, transparent pricing, and a clean, intuitive interface.

Beyond FlyVnox, Okoli has built a growing tech ecosystem under Vnox Technology Inc., which oversees several innovative ventures, including: Vnox TravelTech Solutions LLC (FlyVnox App), VnoxPay (fintech), VnoxShop / Zyrlia (e-commerce)

VnoxID / Nexora (digital identity and smart business card solutions)

Vnox Limited (Nigeria) anchors African operations, media services, and talent development—ensuring the brand remains rooted in its home continent even as it grows globally.

Okoli’s work has broad significance for both Africa and the United States. He represents the powerful impact of immigrant entrepreneurship on global competitiveness—creating new jobs, driving innovation, strengthening U.S.–Africa commercial ties, and contributing to the development of practical, scalable technologies.

The statement concludes that Vnox Technology is a brand to watch. As FlyVnox gains international traction and the Vnox group expands its footprint, Victor Okoli stands as a symbol of a rising generation: African-born, globally minded, and building technologies that connect and serve the world.

From Leo Zwanke, Lafia

In Nigeria’s evolving governance, few leaders have gained as much recognition for reform-driven innovation at the subnational level as Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State. From fiscal prudence to industrialisation, agricultural transformation to human capital development, the engineer-turned-technocrat has steadily positioned Nasarawa as a model for how subnational governments can translate macroeconomic reforms into tangible benefits for their citizens.

At the recent Nigeria Development Update (NDU), organised by the World Bank in Abuja with the theme “From Policy to People: Bringing the Reform Gains Home,” Governor Sule was a panellist alongside national and international development leaders.

He was introduced as a governor whose economic insight and governance style exemplify how reform implementation at the grassroots can sustain the federal government’s policy direction.

“Governor Sule represents the bridge between Nigeria’s macroeconomic reforms and how these policies are domesticated at the state level,” said Shubham Chaudhuri, the World Bank Country Director for Nigeria. “He’s not only talking about reforms; he is implementing them in ways that citizens can feel.”

Before venturing into politics, Abdullahi Sule built a career in engineering, energy, and industry—serving as Managing Director of Dangote Sugar Refinery and leading other private sector initiatives. His private sector exposure, as many observers note, shaped his pragmatic approach to governance.

“The Governor came into office with a technocrat’s mind,” noted Dr. Ahmed Mohammed, an economist and lecturer at Nasarawa State University, Keffi. “He understands that policy documents mean little unless they are converted into livelihood gains.”

That philosophy—bridging policy with the people—is evident across his governance initiatives, aligning seamlessly with the World Bank’s recent development theme.

Agriculture remains Nasarawa’s economic backbone, engaging over 70 percent of its population. Governor Sule’s administration has revitalised the sector through targeted mechanisation, input distribution, and market linkage interventions.

Through partnerships with the African Development Bank (AfDB) and the World Bank’s Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACReSAL) project, the state has distributed modern tractors, improved seedlings, and irrigation facilities to thousands of farmers.

In Yamaltu Deba, a community in Awe Local Government Area, farmer Mallam Abdullahi Umar explained how the tractorisation scheme has transformed their operations.

“Before, we used hoes and cutlasses. It took us two weeks to plough a hectare. Now, with tractors, we do that in one day. Our yields have doubled,” he said proudly.

Governor Sule himself often emphasises the need for “commercially viable farming” and “agriculture as a business, not a subsistence activity.” His administration has created a framework for farmer clusters, linking smallholder producers with large-scale processors, thereby addressing one of Nigeria’s major agricultural bottlenecks—post-harvest loss.

These interventions are not isolated. They feed into the national agenda of improving food security, generating rural employment, and reducing inflation. In Nasarawa, farmers are reporting higher incomes and expanded market access, a reflection of the governor’s commitment to inclusive growth.

Often called the “Home of Solid Minerals,” Nasarawa State is richly endowed with tin, lithium, barite, and other minerals. Yet, for decades, the sector remained largely informal, with little contribution to state revenue.

Governor Sule has changed that narrative through policy reforms that encourage private sector participation and responsible mining. Under his administration, Nasarawa has developed a solid minerals development policy, created a one-stop investment office, and attracted both domestic and foreign investors.

Earlier this year, the governor led an investment mission to India, where he met with industrial leaders and promoted opportunities in Nasarawa’s mining, energy, and agricultural value chains. The result was a flurry of interest from companies seeking to establish operations in the state.

“Governor Sule’s investment drives are opening Nasarawa to the world,” said Mr. Nabil Saleh, a consultant in mining development. “For the first time, there’s a clear structure and transparency around mining licences, community agreements, and environmental safeguards.”

In Karu and Keffi, local youths who previously relied on artisanal mining now participate in formalised mining cooperatives supported by state-led training programmes. This not only ensures environmental safety but also helps the state retain a greater share of mining revenue.

Additionally, Governor Sule’s administration has set up an Industrial Development Plan anchored on the establishment of industrial parks in Lafia, Doma, and Karu. The parks are designed to host agro-processing, mineral refining, and light manufacturing industries. This initiative ties directly into the World Bank’s message of translating macro-level reforms into job creation and improved livelihoods at the subnational level.

Economic reforms cannot thrive without functional infrastructure. In Nasarawa, infrastructure development has been a cornerstone of the Sule administration.

From the dualisation of major highways connecting the state to Abuja, to the ongoing construction of feeder roads linking rural communities with markets, the administration has prioritised roads as key drivers of commerce.

The Mararaba–Udege–Uke feeder road, completed in 2024, now connects thousands of farmers to urban markets, significantly reducing transport costs and spoilage.

“It used to take us two hours to reach Lafia with our goods; now it’s less than 40 minutes,” said Mrs. Asabe Luka, a tomato farmer from Obi LGA. “We no longer lose our produce on bad roads.”

Power and energy are also central to Nasarawa’s reform narrative. Through collaboration with the Nigeria Electrification Project (NEP) and independent power producers, the state is expanding rural electrification, powering small businesses and industries.

Governor Sule’s energy policy aims to make Nasarawa a net supplier of power to neighbouring states, leveraging its hydro and solar potential.

“Access to power is central to our industrial ambition,” the governor said at a recent state economic forum. “Without energy, reforms remain theoretical. That’s why we’re integrating renewable energy solutions into our development plan.”

For Governor Sule, economic growth is only sustainable when accompanied by human capital development. The state has, therefore, increased investment in education, healthcare, and social protection programmes.

In 2025, the governor flagged off the integrated Measles-Rubella and Polio Immunisation Campaign in Akwanga, with support from UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO). This campaign, which is said to reaching over 1.37 million children, was part of the administration’s wider commitment to preventive healthcare.

“We are determined to eliminate vaccine-preventable diseases and ensure that every child in Nasarawa can live a healthy life,” Governor Sule declared during the flag-off.

The state has also revitalised its primary healthcare centres, constructed new hospitals, and initiated the Nasarawa Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS), which now covers over 120,000 residents.

In education, Nasarawa has built and renovated hundreds of classrooms, recruited teachers, and introduced digital learning tools in partnership with donor agencies.

Mrs. Rachael Musa, a teacher in Keana, described how digital education is changing learning outcomes:

“We now use tablets to teach basic science and mathematics. The children are more interested, and parents are beginning to value education even more.”

The Nasarawa State Scholarship Board has been revamped to ensure fair and transparent allocation of bursaries, especially for female students pursuing science and technology courses.

According to the chief press Secretary to the Governor, Ibrahim Addra who noted that the Nasarawa State Governor, His has been honoured with the prestigious Platinum Award and recognition as Education Ambassador in Lagos Nigeria.

He said the honour bestowed on Governor Sule is at the instance of the Independent Newspaper which referenced the Governor’s “investment, advocacy and promotion of child education in Nasarawa State which resonate across the country.”

In a letter notifying the Governor of the award, Independent Newspaper said, “If Sir Ahmadu Bello were to look back from his grave, he would no doubt be proud of Governor Abdullahi Sule for sustaining the legacy of free primary education.”

The award ceremony was held on Thursday, October 9, 2025, at the Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Governor Sule has since expressed gratitude to the Daily Independent for recognising the efforts of his administration to give the education sector the deserved attention through huge budgetary provision, innovation, supervision, and uncommon commitment.

These social investments and Educational Reforms directly support the World Bank’s reform agenda, which emphasises human capital as the foundation of economic transformation.

Under Governor Sule, Nasarawa has emerged as one of the most fiscally disciplined states in Nigeria. The State Fiscal Transparency, Accountability, and Sustainability (SFTAS) initiative—a joint programme of the Federal Government and the World Bank—ranked Nasarawa among the top-performing states in financial reporting, budget transparency, and citizens’ engagement.

The administration has digitised the state’s revenue collection system, introduced e-procurement, and created a Public Procurement Bureau to monitor contract awards. These reforms have improved public trust and investor confidence.

“Governor Sule’s approach to governance is evidence-based,” noted Dr. Joy Adamu, a governance analyst. “His administration publishes budget details online and invites civil society to track spending. That’s rare in many states.”

The 2025 budget, valued at over ₦149 billion, focuses heavily on capital expenditure, targeting agriculture, infrastructure, and education. The governor has described it as a ‘budget of continuity and consolidation’, aimed at completing legacy projects and sustaining fiscal reforms.

The Nigeria Development Update’s message is the need to ensure that macroeconomic reforms such as subsidy removal, foreign exchange unification, and fiscal tightening translate into visible improvements in citizens’ welfare.

Governor Sule’s Nasarawa model aligns perfectly with this philosophy. His state’s economic agenda mirrors national priorities while remaining locally driven.

“Reforms must touch the lives of people directly,” the governor said during the World Bank panel. “That is why we design our programmes to impact farmers, traders, miners, and small businesses, not just government statistics.”

By investing in production, transparency, and human capital, the Sule administration demonstrates that subnational governments can serve as catalysts for national reform success.

In Nasarawa, the story of reform is not just told in government memos—it’s lived by ordinary people.

In Doma, cassava processor Mrs. Maimuna Adogi recounted how a state grant enabled her to expand her processing mill.

“Before the grant, I employed only two people. Now, we are ten. I can feed my family and even save for my children’s school,” she said.

In Keffi, youth entrepreneur Tanimu Musa described how the Nasarawa Enterprise Development Scheme (NEDS) helped him scale his small welding business.

“The state gave us training and small loans. Now I get contracts from local construction firms,” he explained.

These micro-level testimonies echo the theme of “From Policy to People,” proving that reforms are only successful when their impact is measurable in people’s lives.

Governor Abdullahi Sule’s reform trajectory provides a powerful case study in how subnational leaders can domesticate and sustain national reforms. His administration’s blend of technocratic precision, fiscal responsibility, and citizen-focused programmes stands out in Nigeria’s subnational governance landscape.

As Nigeria seeks to stabilise its economy and build inclusive growth, the Nasarawa model offers valuable lessons in investing in sectors that touch people directly, agriculture, education, and health, while pursuing transparency and accountability as the foundation for investor trust, and engaging communities in policy design and delivery.

From the fields of Doma to the classrooms of Keana, and the mining pits of Udege to the industrial estates in Lafia, the gains of reform are becoming visible.

In the words of the governor himself: “When people begin to feel government policies in their pockets and in their homes, that’s when reforms become meaningful. That’s what we are doing in Nasarawa.”

From Abel Leonard Zwanke

When the Secretaries to the State Governments (SSGs) from across Nigeria gathered in Jos, Plateau State recently, for their annual conference organized by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, it was expected that seasoned administrators would mount the podium and share perspectives on governance.

Yet, among the many voices that spoke, one stood out for his clarity, depth, and conviction, Barrister Labaran Magaji, the Secretary to the Government of Nasarawa State.

Representing the vision of Governor Abdullahi Sule with exceptional eloquence, Magaji delivered a presentation that left many delegates impressed.

His submission was not only a reflection of the policy thrust of the Sule administration but also a testimony to his own growing stature as one of the stabilising forces in Nasarawa’s governance structure. His speech was described by a delegate from the South West as “practical, well-grounded, and delivered with the confidence of someone who understands the heartbeat of his state.”

Speaking with journalists after the SSGs conference in Jos, Barrister Labaran Magaji, stressed that governance must be anchored on accountability and performance. According to him, no matter the size of a budget or the beauty of a policy document, real development will only happen when ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) are held to high standards of delivery and transparency. He described the SSG as the bridge between vision and implementation, ensuring that government policies do not remain mere promises.

Magaji explained further that peace and trust are central to any development agenda. He noted that while infrastructure and industrialisation remain priorities for Nasarawa, the state has equally invested in stability, community engagement, and conflict prevention. “Peace is the soil in which progress grows,” he remarked, adding that Governor Abdullahi Sule’s leadership has created an enabling environment for projects and investments to thrive.

The Nasarawa SSG also cautioned against early politicking, saying this is the time for leaders to focus on delivery rather than ambition. He urged his colleagues across the states to commit to building lasting legacies by ensuring projects are completed and lives are impacted positively. According to him, premature political distractions could derail the momentum of development that citizens urgently need.

Reflecting on his own stewardship, Magaji said he hopes to be remembered as an administrator who translated policies into tangible results. “It is not about how many ground-breakings we attend but how many lives are touched by the work we do,” he concluded, emphasising that the true measure of governance lies in trust, transparency, and visible change in people’s daily lives.

For close observers of Nasarawa politics and governance, this was not surprising. Since assuming the position of SSG, Labaran Magaji has become a bridge between policy and implementation, between the governor and the people, and between bureaucracy and political leadership. His style of leadership has earned him the trust of civil servants, the confidence of politicians, and the respect of citizens who see him as a steady hand working behind the scenes to make governance work.

Governor Abdullahi Sule came into office with a clear vision of industrialisation, infrastructural renewal, and social development. Translating such a vision into reality requires more than just political will—it requires a system anchored by competent hands. In this regard, Labaran Magaji has played a pivotal role.

Civil servants in the state speak of his accessibility and fairness. According to Mrs. Hauwa Ibrahim, a director in the Ministry of Finance, “The SSG has created an atmosphere where we can speak freely and contribute ideas. He is not only approachable but ensures that due process is followed in every decision. That has reduced tension among workers and helped build confidence in the system.”

Political actors, too, acknowledge his balancing act. Hon. Usman Bala, an APC chieftain in Awe Local Government, noted: “Magaji is one of those who has been able to manage political differences without making enemies. He knows how to carry everyone along, and that’s why he enjoys the governor’s confidence.”

It is no exaggeration to say that under Magaji’s coordination, the governor’s programmes, from road projects and investments in power to educational reforms, have enjoyed smoother execution. His understanding of both legal frameworks and grassroots realities has given him a unique edge in harmonising the diverse arms of governance in Nasarawa.

Trust in governance is often hard-earned, yet Magaji appears to have mastered the craft of building it. Stakeholders point to his honesty and consistency as key to his growing acceptance.

Comrade Daniel Ango, a civil service union leader, explained: “In the past, workers used to feel alienated. But Magaji has made the governor’s office more open. He listens and even when he cannot solve a problem immediately, he explains why. That sincerity makes a difference.”

Beyond the civil service, ordinary citizens also appreciate his interventions. From ensuring timely government responses during community crises to supervising relief distribution transparently, Magaji has quietly earned a reputation as someone who does not compromise public trust.

Political commentators argue that Magaji’s rise within the Sule administration is both strategic and deserved. According to Dr. Alfred Umbugis, a political science lecturer at Nasarawa State University.

“Governance is not only about the governor. The SSG is a key player who ensures that decisions are implemented effectively. Labaran Magaji has demonstrated capacity and loyalty, which is why he is becoming more visible. He represents a younger generation of technocrats who combine knowledge with loyalty to leadership.”

Similarly, journalist and publisher Donatus Nadi observed that Magaji “has succeeded in aligning the governor’s industrialisation drive with the daily running of government. You need someone who can translate policy into actionable frameworks, and that is exactly what Magaji has been doing.”

The political climate in Nasarawa is not without its challenges. With multiple interests competing for influence, and with the 2027 governorship race already generating speculation, the role of the SSG becomes even more delicate.

Magaji has so far managed to maintain neutrality, focusing instead on governance. A legislator in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Hon Solomon Akwadhiki in an interview said: “Magaji’s strength lies in the fact that he does not allow himself to be dragged into petty politics. His loyalty is to the governor and the state, not to factions. That makes him reliable.”

Such a balancing act is rare in Nigeria’s political space, where government officials often tilt toward factions. He recently issued a statement as directed by the governor to go after political appointees who aligns themselves to aspirants for 2027 elections waring them to resign or face strict punishment.

Observers argue that his style has contributed to Nasarawa’s relative political stability compared to some neighboring states.

While Governor Sule takes the lead in negotiating investment deals, attracting industries, and pushing infrastructure projects, Magaji ensures that the bureaucratic machinery is aligned with those ambitions. Insiders at Government House, Lafia, note that the SSG’s office has become a hub of coordination, ensuring that ministries deliver on targets.

This coordination role became evident during the visit of president Bola Ahmed Tinubu to commission the flyover underpass Bridge, state Secretariate and other projects when the state’s response was praised for its orderliness. Though the governor led from the front, Magaji’s hand in ensuring smooth inter-ministerial cooperation, stakeholders’ arrangement and maintaining protocols unmistakable.

More recently, his role in ensuring government projects are executed, functional and better office vehicles are purchased and distributed to securities, MDAs and government ministers  has drawn commendation. “He personally supervised the process, making sure standard vehicles are purchased and got to the proposed people directly. That’s not something you see every day,” said Mrs. Ruth Yakubu, a community leader in Doma.

Yet, behind the official image lies a man with deep roots in the community. Magaji’s humility and ability to relate across social divides are often cited as key to his effectiveness.

“He has not allowed office to change him. When you meet him, you see someone who is simple, respectful, and ready to listen. That’s why many people trust him,” said Alhaji Musa Adamu, a traditional leader in Toto Local Government.

Labaran Magaji’s journey to the SSG’s office is marked by resilience, preparation, and service. Trained as a lawyer, he cut his teeth in legal practice and public service before venturing into politics. Over the years, he built a reputation as a grassroots mobiliser and an advocate of good governance.

His first major political outing was his bid for elective office where he contested the primaries for senate position in the Western zone where though he did not clinch the position, he gained visibility and respect across Nasarawa. He was appointed the Commissioner for Justice and Nasarawa state Attorney General. His legal background proved useful, as he became a resource person on governance, law, and civic engagement.

When Governor Sule appointed him as Secretary to the State Government, many saw it as a strategic decision to inject both loyalty and competence into the administration. Today, those who doubted his capacity have been convinced by his performance.

As Nasarawa continues on its path of development, stakeholders believe Magaji’s role will remain indispensable. His ability to interpret and implement the governor’s vision while keeping the machinery of government stable has made him a cornerstone of the Sule administration.

For now, Labaran Magaji remains content working behind the scenes, ensuring that governance does not derail. But his rising profile has sparked conversations about his future political prospects. Whether he chooses to remain a technocrat or step fully into partisan politics, one thing is certain: his imprint on the governance of Nasarawa State is already undeniable.

As Professor John Adeyemi, a governance expert, summed it up: “Every administration needs someone who stabilises the system. In Nasarawa, that person is Labaran Magaji. He may not always be in the headlines, but his impact is everywhere.”

Abel Leonard Zwanke is a veteran journalist and writes from Nasarawa

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