With more than 15 years of experience across Europe and Africa, security technology entrepreneur Tayo Adelakun is driving Nigeria’s transition from traditional locks to digital access solutions.
Adelakun, founder of Lockworth Nigeria and Chief Executive of Adekolme Nigeria Limited, is working with South African partner Yebotech to deliver advanced infrastructure and access management systems designed to boost efficiency, accountability, and security across the country.
From Europe to Nigeria’s Corporate Landmarks
His career began in Europe, where he represented global security giant ABLOY in Nigeria, supplying locks and padlocks for major telecom operators such as MTN and Airtel. Over time, his portfolio expanded to include landmark projects like the Zenith Bank headquarters on Ajose Adeogun, Lagos, and the Civic Towers on Victoria Island.
“Security has gone beyond physical locks. It is now about digital access management and innovation,” Adelakun explained.
Smart Locks and Digital Access Management
In partnership with Yellow Tech, Adelakun is introducing Bluetooth-enabled smart locks with programmable keys that offer more than 10,000 configurations. These solutions give organizations the power to grant, restrict, or revoke access instantly, without physically changing locks.
Nigerian businesses are already extending the use of this technology beyond security. Companies are leveraging it to track staff attendance, monitor efficiency, and curb fraudulent practices. “If you don’t arrive on time, your key simply won’t let you in,” Adelakun noted.
Efficiency, Accountability, and Long-Term Value
While careful not to brand the system as an anti-corruption tool, Adelakun highlighted its ability to reduce inefficiency, prevent misuse of resources, and improve accountability.
On broader security issues, such as Nigeria’s porous borders, he remained pragmatic:
“Our focus is on access management for offices, estates, banks, and secure facilities. That’s where we add value, ensuring only authorized people gain entry while leaving a digital audit trail.”
He further emphasized that adopting digital access systems should be seen as an investment rather than an expense.
“What you lose in five years by ignoring this technology is far greater than the cost of deploying it today,” he said.
Aligning Nigeria with Global Standards
Looking ahead, Adelakun believes Nigerian corporations, particularly banks and large institutions, must embrace digital security to remain globally competitive.
“Technology is about trust, risk reduction, and aligning with world standards. If New York and London can secure their cities with smart systems, then Lagos can do the same,” he asserted.
For Adelakun, the mission is clear: to establish a world-class, transparent, and technology-driven security culture that strengthens Nigerian infrastructure and corporate governance.
