Collins Enebeli was fascinated by hardware as a child. His childhood dreams have since propelled him and informed his career choices in tech. Collins started with website development and became a competitive and sought-after Front-End Engineer for his exceptional technical competence and forward-thinking skills. This grit has taken him from participating in a mere tech boot camp to working with some of the world’s fastest companies, such as NexusLabs, Float, and LFG Gaming LLC, in the Fintech, Web3, and Gaming space.
In 2020, Collins Enebeli played a critical role towards the End SARS Movement, a groundbreaking, decentralised social movement and series of mass protests against police brutality in Nigeria. Recognising the importance of digital platforms in creating change, and with the limitations imposed by the lockdown, he developed a web platform that enabled and encouraged more citizens to engage with their local policymakers, which led to significant reforms in the law enforcement sector, influenced by Collin’s abilities to conceptualise and make it a reality.
Since these accomplishments, he has pushed through boundaries, using his innovative thinking and capabilities to solve problems in Web3.
Question: What initially sparked your interest in technology? Can you describe your early career experiences and how they shaped your approach to web development?
Collins Enebeli: My fascination with technology began with hardware during my childhood. I was captivated by how devices worked and wanted to understand them better. This curiosity naturally evolved into an interest in website development, where I could combine creativity with technical skills. That passion led me to become a Front-End Engineer, focusing on creating dynamic and interactive web experiences. I’ve been fortunate to work with several innovative start-ups, including NexusLabs, where I’ve applied my forward-thinking approach to technology.
Question: How have your experiences shaped your approach to problem-solving in the tech industry?
Collins Enebeli: My experiences have taught me the importance of innovation and adaptability. Whether it’s contributing to social movements or developing Web3 solutions, I’ve learned to push boundaries and think creatively. In today’s fast-paced tech landscape, it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve, continuously learning and applying new ideas to solve complex problems.
Question: How can Web3 be used to create more equitable and inclusive digital experiences for end users?
Collins Enebeli: Web3 has the potential to revolutionise digital spaces by making them more equitable and inclusive. One of the core principles of Web3 is decentralisation, which means that control is distributed rather than concentrated in the hands of a few large entities. This allows for more democratic participation and governance in digital platforms.
Through decentralised finance (DeFi), for example, people excluded from traditional financial systems can access services like lending, borrowing, and investing without needing a bank account. Web3 also enables the creation of decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs), where communities can collectively make decisions and manage resources transparently. This empowers marginalised groups to have a voice and control over digital spaces in ways that were impossible before.
Moreover, Web3 allows for self-sovereign identities, where individuals can control their data and digital identities without relying on centralised authorities. This can reduce discrimination and privacy violations, giving users more control over their online presence. By breaking down barriers and providing more opportunities for participation, Web3 can help create digital environments that are fairer, more inclusive, and truly reflective of diverse voices.
Question: How do you see the role of technology in social movements evolving in the future?
Collins Enebeli: Technology will continue to play a pivotal role in social movements, especially as more people access digital platforms. We already see how social media, blockchain, and other technologies can mobilise communities, provide transparency, and hold institutions accountable. In the future, I believe we’ll see even more sophisticated tools that allow for decentralised organisation, secure communication, and real-time decision-making. Technology will empower individuals and communities to drive change more effectively.
Question: In 2020, you played a significant role in the End SARS Movement in Nigeria. How did the idea for the web platform to support the EndSARS movement come about?
Collins Enebeli: The End SARS Movement was a crucial moment in Nigeria’s history, and I recognised the importance of digital platforms in amplifying voices during the lockdown. I developed a web platform that allowed more citizens to participate in the movement despite the physical restrictions. The platform not only enabled people to voice their concerns but also captured the attention of policymakers, contributing to significant reforms in law enforcement. When used effectively, it was a powerful example of how technology can drive social change.
Question: What advice would you give to young developers who aspire to make a difference through technology?
Collins Enebeli: My advice would be to stay curious and never stop learning. Technology evolves rapidly, so it’s important to keep up with new trends and tools. But beyond technical skills, it’s crucial to understand the real-world problems you want to solve. Impactful technology solutions come from a deep understanding of the issues at hand. Also, don’t be afraid to take risks and push boundaries. Some of the most significant breakthroughs happen when you step out of your comfort zone.
Question: What key trends in web development that you think will shape the industry’s future?
Collins Enebeli: I believe several key trends will shape the future of web development. First, the rise of AI and machine learning is already transforming how we build and interact with web applications. Personalisation, automation, and predictive analytics are becoming standard features. Second, the move towards decentralised web technologies, like those in Web3, is changing how we think about data ownership and internet governance. Lastly, the emphasis on user experience will only grow, with more focus on accessibility, speed, and seamless interaction across devices. Staying ahead in web development will require a strong grasp of these emerging trends.
Question: What’s next for you in your career?
Collins Enebeli: I’m focused on exploring new possibilities in Web3 and other emerging technologies. Web3 has the potential to create impactful solutions that can change how we interact with the digital world. I’m excited to continue pushing the limits of what’s possible and developing technologies that make a difference.