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?
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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 discussions underway with both private and governmental security entities regarding how this solution can benefit them, and what strategy do you have for making the solution accessible to the general public?
At present, I have no discussions underway with either private or governmental security entities; however, my intention is to involve them as the solution expands. My aim is to work alongside these organizations to improve the system and make sure it aligns with their practical requirements.
For public use, the initial deployment of the solution will target high-risk locations such as schools, shopping centers, and transportation hubs, aiming for instant effectiveness. Currently, however, a significant constraint is that the system can only identify visible weaponry and cannot detect hidden threats. In the future, our objective is to overcome this limitation and enhance the system’s functionality, thereby improving overall public security throughout Nigeria.
There has been an increase in crime and insecurity in Nigeria lately. What recommendations do you have for the federal government regarding the utilization of technology and artificial intelligence to address this issue nationwide?
Indeed, crime and insecurity have been increasing in Nigeria, and I think technology, particularly artificial intelligence, could be pivotal in tackling this issue. I recommend that the Federal Government allocate resources toward AI-powered surveillance systems capable of facilitating real-time threat identification in communal areas. Technologies such as facial recognition, object detection, and predictive analytics can enable law enforcement agencies to react swiftly and precisely.
Moreover, the government ought to collaborate with nearby technological experts and emerging businesses to develop adaptable, locally sourced solutions customized for our specific conditions. This encompasses backing research initiatives, financing trial programs, and establishing regulations that guarantee the conscientious and moral application of artificial intelligence. Through appropriate investments and teamwork, technology has the potential to serve as a robust instrument for enhancing national safety and rebuilding public confidence.
You’re involved with EdTech, blockchain technology, and environmental solutions as well. Are there specific projects in these fields that you’d like to discuss?
Certainly, I’ve been fortunate enough to contribute to significant initiatives spanning edtech, blockchain, and environmental sectors. At Cognota within the edtech domain, I collaborated with an international group to develop a system designed to assist corporate teams in overseeing and optimizing their internal educational programs.
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.
What strategies have you employed to tackle the difficulties encountered within the technology sector, and what are your aspirations for both yourself and your technological profession over the next half-decade?
In the ever-evolving world of technology, one constantly faces hurdles such as swift technological advancements, inadequate infrastructure, or crafting answers for intricate and under-serviced sectors. To address these issues, I remain unwaveringly eager to learn more, continually enhance my skills, and approach every challenge through a lens of resolution. Rather than merely adapting, I strive to foresee future needs and construct accordingly.
Within the next five years, my vision is to be a leader in innovation, overseeing top-tier engineering teams as we implement large-scale AI-driven solutions. Additionally, I aim to guide emerging tech talents throughout Africa. My dedication lies in developing technologies that do more than function; they should revolutionize daily life. Continuously transcending these limits remains my priority.
Are you convinced that the government and its current policies are adequately supporting technology start-ups within the nation? Do you have any recommendations for individuals who aspire to build careers in technology and software engineering?
Progress has been made, particularly with the appointment of figures such as Bosun Tijani as the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy. With his expertise in technology and innovation, a valuable viewpoint has been introduced. Nonetheless, significant work remains ahead. Numerous tech start-ups continue to encounter difficulties related to financing, inadequate infrastructure, regulatory hurdles, and limited entry into international markets. It is crucial for the government to foster supportive conditions via regulations that promote creativity, streamline bureaucratic processes, and genuinely assist domestic entrepreneurs developing transformative answers.
For those eager to pursue a career in technology or software engineering, my advice would be as follows: Begin wherever you currently find yourself, maintain consistency, and create tangible projects. Concentrate on addressing issues rather than merely coding. Share your learning process publicly, engage with community contributions, and refrain from waiting for ideal circumstances. The tech world values initiative, and opportunities abound for individuals at all skill levels.
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