With more than 15 years of experience spanning Europe and Africa, security entrepreneur Tayo Adelakun is at the forefront of efforts to modernize access management and infrastructure systems across Nigeria and the continent.
Adelakun, founder of Lockworth Nigeria and Chief Executive of Adekolme Nigeria Limited, is working with South African partners Yebotech to bring advanced technologies that replace traditional locks with digital, trackable systems.
His journey began in Europe, where he represented global security giant ABLOY in Nigeria—supplying locks and padlocks that secured MTN and Airtel base stations nationwide. His portfolio later grew to include landmark architectural projects such as the tower cladding of Zenith Bank’s headquarters on Ajose Adeogun, Lagos, and the Civic Towers on Victoria Island.
“We believe in African connections,” Adelakun said. “Security is no longer about physical locks alone—it has moved into access management and digital innovations.”
Through a partnership with Yellow Tech, Adelakun is introducing Bluetooth-enabled smart locks that allow organizations to manage access digitally. These systems provide over 10,000 programmable options on a single key, giving security departments the ability to revoke or adjust access instantly—without changing locks.
Beyond security, Nigerian businesses are finding broader applications. Companies now use the technology to track staff attendance, prevent fraudulent billing, and enhance accountability. “If you don’t show up on time, your key simply won’t give you access,” Adelakun explained.
While cautious about branding the innovation as an anti-corruption tool, Adelakun acknowledges its power to reduce inefficiency and misuse of resources.
On Nigeria’s broader security challenges, such as porous borders, he is pragmatic:
“That is a different ball game. Our expertise is in access management for offices, estates, banks, and secure premises. That’s where we add value—ensuring only authorized people gain entry and leaving a digital audit trail.”
Adelakun insists these solutions are not a cost but a long-term investment.
“What you lose in five years by not adopting this technology will be far greater than the cost of deploying it today,” he said.
Looking ahead, he believes Nigerian corporations, especially banks and large institutions, must align with global standards to stay competitive.
“Technology is no longer optional—it is about trust, risk reduction, and aligning Nigeria with world standards. If New York or London can secure their cities with modern systems, then Lagos can too.”
For Adelakun, the vision is clear: to build Nigerian infrastructure and corporate culture on a foundation of smart, transparent, world-class security.
