Florence Seriki facts for kids

Florence Seriki (16 August 1963 – 3 March 2017) was a pioneering Nigerian engineer and businesswoman. She founded Omatek Ventures Plc., a company that became the first in Nigeria, and even in Africa, to build and make computer parts. This included things like computer cases, speakers, keyboards, and computer mice. She was a true leader in the world of technology.

Early Life and Education

Florence was born in Lagos, Nigeria. Her family was from Delta State. She went to Reagan Memorial Baptist Secondary School in Lagos from 1975 to 1980. After that, she studied at the Federal School of Science in Lagos.

She then earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Ife. This university is now known as Obafemi Awolowo University in Ile-Ife.

Omatek Computers

In 1993, Florence Seriki introduced the Omatek brand of computers. This happened at an exhibition organized by the American Embassy in Nigeria. It was the very first time anyone had tried to make computers in Nigeria.

By 2003, she made history again. Florence became the first African to produce computer parts like cases, speakers, keyboards, and computer mice. These parts were made in Nigeria from scratch. Her factory produced "Made in Nigeria" Omatek computers, notebooks, and servers. All their parts were made right there in Nigeria.

Awards and Recognition

Florence Seriki received many awards for her amazing work. These awards celebrated her leadership and how she changed technology in Nigeria. Some of her awards include:

• Most Outstanding/Innovative company of the decade – Africa Digital Awards 2010
• Computer Hardware of the Year 2010 – National Information Technology Merit Awards
• Best Computer Company of the Year 2010 – West Africa ICT Development Awards
• Professional Fellowship Award – Nigerian Computers Society
• Female Entrepreneur of the Year 2009 – Equisite Magazine/Eloy ’09 Awards
• Life Time Achievement Award for revolutionizing IT in Nigeria – 3rd Lagos Enterprise Award 2009
• Distinguished Alumni Award – Obafemi Awolowo University Alumni Association (Lagos Branch)
• Legend of Technology 2009 – Titans of Technology
• Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the year, 2003
• Best IT Woman of the Year 2003

Personal Life

Florence Seriki was married and had three children. She had one son and two daughters.

Death

Florence Seriki passed away on Friday, March 3, 2017. She died at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH) in Lagos.