Rachael Omidiji, Author at Tribune Online

In Africa’s rapidly evolving fintech landscape, few stories stand out like that of Obiex Inc, a Nigerian cryptocurrency exchange that went from a backroom idea to processing billions in trades across the continent. And behind some of its boldest, most transformative ideas stands a woman whose name is now synonymous with strategic vision and data-powered disruption: Chidimma Umeaduma. The Spark Amid a SlumpIn December 2021, as the crypto market nosedived, Obiex faced an existential challenge. Trading volume was down, user engagement was slipping, and investor confidence was at a low. The leadership team looked to Chidimma, then Senior Financial/Data Analyst, for a way forward.But she didn’t suggest a flashy new token or gimmick. She suggested utility.“She came into the meeting and said, ‘Our users can’t spend. Let’s fix that,’” recalls CEO Ikechukwu Okeke. “That’s when the idea for the Obiex Virtual Crypto Card came into being.” The card allowed users to convert crypto into fiat and use it for international purchases, bypassing the $20 cap on Naira card spending. In the months following its release, Obiex saw $1 million in card transactions and a 200% increase in overall volume.“It was unprecedented,” said fintech analyst Ngozi Ajayi. “At a time when other exchanges were floundering, Obiex surged ahead.” Data-Driven, People-Centered SolutionsWhat makes Umeaduma unique isn’t just her technical skills—it’s her ability to translate data into actionable, human-centered solutions. After the virtual card, she went on to lead the design of the Token Insight Platform—a real-time analytics dashboard for token behavior, market patterns, and risk forecasts. “It was like giving traders night-vision goggles,” said CTO Emeka Ogundipe. “They saw opportunities—and threats—clearly and in real time.”User engagement jumped by 40%. Positive feedback rolled in. The platform became a daily tool for thousands of traders seeking smarter strategies.At the same time, Umeaduma launched a compliance overhaul. Leveraging AI, she introduced systems for detecting irregular behavior and transaction fraud. The results were staggering: fraudulent activity on Obiex fell by 80% in just three months.“She built safety into our growth model,” said Obiex compliance head Ifeanyi Nwoke. “And regulators noticed.” Obiex: A Platform on the RiseFounded in 2021, Obiex now boasts 80,000 users, a presence in Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon, and over $4 billion in cumulative trading volume. Its signature features—including utility bill payments with crypto, a Naira-pegged stablecoin (NGNX), and regional fiat on-ramps—have made it one of the most versatile and trusted platforms in African fintech. Media houses such as TechCabal, The Guardian Nigeria, and Cryptotvplus regularly cite Obiex as one of the continent’s fastest-growing crypto firms. In 2023, it was nominated for recognition at the Africa Crypto Giants Awards.Much of that acclaim is rooted in Umeaduma’s impact. Legacy of a Quiet InnovatorThose who work with Chidimma describe her as focused, collaborative, and unassuming. But her impact? Loud and lasting.“She’s the kind of professional who doesn’t chase the spotlight,” said co-founder Chidozie Ogbo. “But the spotlight finds her because her work speaks volumes.”As Obiex continues to push the boundaries of financial innovation in Africa, Chidimma Umeaduma’s legacy as a catalyst for its success is firmly established.“She didn’t just shape Obiex’s strategy,” said Okeke. “She helped shape the future of African crypto.”