From LemFi and Kuda to SendSprint and Askam AI, discover 10 Nigerian-founded startups reshaping the UK technology ecosystem through fintech, AI, robotics and enterprise software
From Fintech to AI: 10 Nigerian Startups Expanding Across the UK and Beyond
Nigerian entrepreneurs are increasingly shaping the United Kingdom’s technology landscape, building startups that span fintech, artificial intelligence, robotics, enterprise software and digital payments while maintaining strong operational links with Africa.
Many of the companies have adopted a hybrid model, establishing headquarters in the UK to leverage its financial and regulatory environment while continuing to serve customers across Nigeria and other African markets. The approach has positioned Nigerian-founded startups as major players in cross-border innovation and global technology.
Among the standout companies is LemFi, formerly Lemonade Finance, the London-headquartered remittance platform founded in 2020 by Ridwan Olalere and Rian Cochran. The company has expanded across the UK, Nigeria, the United States and Canada, helping immigrants make seamless cross-border payments while securing significant investment to strengthen its UK operations.
Kuda, founded by Babs Ogundeyi and Musty Mustapha, has emerged as one of Africa’s best-known digital banks. Headquartered in London and licensed as a microfinance bank in Nigeria, Kuda offers digital banking services ranging from free transfers and budgeting tools to lending for individuals and small businesses.
Another player in the remittance market is SendOva, founded by Olufemi Anthony Olaogun. Operating from London, the platform focuses on transparent pricing and fee-free money transfers for Nigerians in the UK, addressing common challenges faced by migrants sending money home.
In robotics, NippyBot, founded by Samson Adewole in 2025, is developing autonomous electric delivery robots for food, parcels and essential goods. The company combines artificial intelligence with autonomous navigation to improve last-mile delivery services in urban communities.
Reach Industries, formerly Reach Robotics, was co-founded by Nigerian robotics engineer Silas Adekunle and Chris Beck. After gaining international recognition for MekaMon, the world’s first intelligent gaming robot, the company shifted its focus to industrial automation, providing cloud-based solutions for laboratories and manufacturing.
Fintech startup MoneyHive, founded by Ayodeji Jegede, is redefining remittances by allowing users to pay verified bills such as rent, school fees and healthcare directly, ensuring funds reach their intended purpose.
Technology firm Torilo Group, founded by Oluwaseun Farinre with Joe Odunayo as Managing Partner, has grown from a database management company into a technology group serving global clients, while its Bizedge platform provides integrated payroll, HR, accounting and asset management solutions.
Entrepreneurship platform Foundervine, co-founded by Izzy Obeng and Cecil Adjalo, supports founders from underrepresented communities by connecting them with mentors, investors and business networks, helping thousands of entrepreneurs launch and scale technology ventures.
Artificial intelligence company Askam AI Solutions, founded by Babajide Fakile and Emmanuel Mark Jonah, is making AI more accessible across emerging markets through its WhatsApp-powered chatbot, which supports local languages including Yoruba and Nigerian Pidgin.
Completing the list is SendSprint, founded by former Flutterwave executive Damisi Busari. With headquarters in London and Lagos, the company provides cross-border payment services for Africans in the diaspora and expanded its international footprint in 2024 through the acquisition of US-based remittance company Nobel Financial.
The rapid growth of these ventures reflects Nigeria’s expanding influence in global technology, with founders increasingly building businesses that combine African innovation with international scale, strengthening commercial links between the UK, Nigeria and the wider global digital economy.
