Bukola Sobowale is a senior software engineer and tech expert with a speciality in web and cloud technologies, Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Machine Learning (ML). He recently developed a tech surveillance solution that can solve insecurity in public places. In this interview by KINGSLEY ALUMONA, he speaks about his work, the security situation of Nigeria, among others.
Why did you decide to study Electrical and Electronics Engineering after your microbiology programme?
I have a Microbiology degree from Obafemi Awolowo University, where I was first introduced to programming through a year-long Java course. My interest grew in my third year after discussions around data science and machine learning, which led me to pursue a second degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering at the University of Ibadan to deepen my technical foundations. Although I have moved away from lab work, the analytical thinking and attention to detail I developed in microbiology continue to influence how I approach engineering problems, especially in high-stakes fields like healthcare and blockchain.
As an electrical/electronics engineer and software engineer, which aspects/areas of tech do you major in and how long have you been working in these areas of tech?
I am a multidisciplinary engineer with experience across hardware, embedded systems, and full-stack web and mobile development. I have worked in logistics and sustainability, edtech, blockchain, and healthtech.
I began my career building platforms for hackathons and startup incubators then led the development of a digital waste management solution adopted by the Lagos State Waste Management Authority. I later joined Cognota, a Canadian edtech startup serving large enterprises. More recently, I have been focused on building healthcare software for intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) agencies in the United States of America. Alongside software, I have built hardware projects like a smart weapon detection system using artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and a smart irrigation prototype for large-scale farming. Overall, it has been a fulfilling journey with a meaningful impact across industries.
You recently announced that you built a tech surveillance solution that can help curb insecurity. What inspired you to develop such a solution?
The idea stemmed from the increasing insecurity in public places, where traditional surveillance falls short. I wanted to create a smart, cost-effective solution that could be deployed even in resource-limited environments.
I trained a custom YOLOv8 object detection model on weapon datasets using Roboflow, deployed it on a Raspberry Pi with a CSI camera for real-time detection, and set up SMS alerts for security personnel when a weapon is detected. The project combined machine learning, the Internet of Things (IoT), and deep learning to provide an accessible, scalable solution to a pressing security issue.
Has the solution been launched, who is eligible or capable of using this solution, and how exactly would it solve insecurity in Nigeria?
The working prototype has been tested and deployed, though not yet at full scale. The solution is designed for use in high-risk areas like schools, malls, and transport hubs. It uses real-time weapon detection to alert security personnel via SMS, helping them respond quickly to potential threats. This system provides an affordable and effective way to enhance public safety and curb insecurity in Nigeria.
Are you in talks with private or government security agencies on how this solution could help them and what is your plan for the public usage of the solution?
I am not currently in talks with private or government security agencies, but I plan to engage with them as the solution scales. The goal is to collaborate with security organisations to refine the system and ensure it meets their operational needs.
For public usage, the plan is to start by deploying the solution in high-risk areas like schools, malls, and transport hubs, where it can have an immediate impact. However, one major limiting factor right now is that the system can only detect visible weapons and not concealed ones. Over time, we aim to address this limitation and expand the solution’s capabilities, making it more effective in enhancing public safety across Nigeria.
Crime and insecurity have recently risen in Nigeria. How would you advise the Federal Government on the use of tech and artificial intelligence in curbing insecurity across the country?
It is true that crime and insecurity are on the rise in Nigeria, and I believe technology, especially artificial intelligence, can play a critical role in addressing this. I would advise the Federal Government to invest in AI-driven surveillance systems that can support real-time threat detection in public spaces. Tools like facial recognition, object detection, and predictive analytics can help security agencies respond faster and more accurately.
Additionally, the government should partner with local tech talent and startups to build scalable, homegrown solutions tailored to our environment. This includes supporting research, funding pilot projects, and creating policies that ensure responsible and ethical use of AI. With the right investment and collaboration, technology can become a powerful tool in improving national security and restoring public trust.
You also work around edutech, blockchain, and environmental solutions. Do you have any notable work in these areas you would like to talk about?
Yes, I have had the opportunity to work on impactful projects across edtech, blockchain, and environmental solutions. In edtech, I contributed to Cognota, where I was part of a global team that built a platform to help enterprise teams manage and streamline internal learning programmes.
In the blockchain space, I have worked on Algodex, one of the first decentralised Automated Market Maker (AMM), which facilitates trading of Algorand assets and other tokens with a focus on speed, low fees, and security. I have also worked with OffBlocks, a UK-based blockchain company. OffBlocks provides a decentralised payment network and a developer toolkit that enables web3 developers to issue compliant bank accounts and debit cards, which brings a real-world financial infrastructure into the blockchain ecosystem.
On the environmental solution, I was a lead and founding engineer at Pakam, a platform that connected informal waste collectors to recycling companies using real-time logistics and geofencing, promoting sustainability and accountability in waste management.
How are you managing the challenges you face in the tech industry and where do you see yourself and your tech career in five years?
In the tech industry, challenges are constant ─ whether it is rapid shifts in technology, limited infrastructure, or building solutions for complex, underserved markets. I tackle these head-on by staying relentlessly curious, upskilling consistently, and leading with a problem-solving mindset. I don’t just adapt, I anticipate and build for what is next.
In five years, I see myself at the forefront of innovation, leading high-performing engineering teams, driving AI-powered solutions at scale, and mentoring rising tech talent across Africa. I am committed to building technology that does not just work but transforms lives, and I intend to keep pushing those boundaries.
Do you think the government and its policies are doing enough to support tech startups in the country? What is your advice to young people hoping to make a career in tech and software engineering?
There has been progress, especially with the appointment of leaders like Bosun Tijani as Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy. His background in tech and innovation brings a much-needed perspective. However, there is still a long way to go. Many tech startups still face challenges around funding, infrastructure, regulation, and access to global markets. The government needs to create more enabling environments through policies that encourage innovation, reduce red tape, and offer real support for local founders building high-impact solutions.
To young people hoping to build a career in tech or software engineering, I would say: Start where you are, stay consistent, and build real things. Focus on solving problems, not just writing code. Learn in public, contribute to communities, and do not wait for perfect conditions. The tech ecosystem rewards action, and there is room for talent at every level.
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