From the dimly lit streets of Lagos to bustling tech showrooms and fast-food counters, Biodun Marquis has carved a name synonymous with innovation and excellence. Often referred to as the “IT Wizkid,” Marquis is a man of many firsts and countless feats, his signature early grey hair, a testament to wisdom honed over decades of relentless ambition and groundbreaking ideas.
More than 15 years ago, when Nigeria’s power crisis was at its peak, Marquis introduced inverter systems paired with deep-cycle batteries to the local market through his company, Pragmatic Technologies Limited. This wasn’t just a product launch; it was a lifeline for businesses and individuals struggling with erratic power supply. His efforts didn’t stop at Nigeria’s borders—neighbouring countries also benefited from his innovations. Pragmatic’s batteries, known for their durability, remain unmatched in the market, setting Marquis apart as a leader in alternative energy solutions.
Today, Pragmatic Technologies continues to be a major force, supplying unique energy solutions tailored to individual needs. Marquis’s unrelenting commitment to quality has earned him a reputation as one of the biggest names in Nigeria’s renewable energy sector.
Marquis’ legacy in technology is nothing short of extraordinary. At a time when smartphones and AI were mere whispers of the future, Pragmatic Technologies was retailing futuristic devices. From high-capacity memory cards to niche mobile phones, his products stood out in a tech landscape that was still finding its feet. His offerings were not just gadgets; they were glimpses into the future, blending innovation with practicality.
One of his steps forward was in tech endeavour, was the launch of www.buyright.biz nearly two decades ago—a pioneering e-commerce platform that predated the likes of Jumia and Konga. Marquis envisioned a Nigeria where shopping was just a click away, and while the market wasn’t fully ready for the idea at the time, his foresight laid the groundwork for the booming online retail industry we see today.
Marquis’s entrepreneurial spirit doesn’t end with tech and energy. Several years ago, he ventured into the fast-food industry, launching Awoof Brekete, a fast-rising chain that started its journey on Ikorodu Road, Lagos. Known for affordable, delicious meals, Awoof Brekete has quickly become a household name, with expansion plans promising to bring its offerings to every corner of Nigeria.
What sets Marquis apart is his relentless quest for the best. He is a globetrotter, frequenting international trade shows and factory tours to bring unique and cutting-edge products back home. His Pragmatic showrooms, situated in high-profile malls across Lagos and Port Harcourt, showcase a range of Prag-branded products, including their signature inverters and batteries.
Colleagues and business partners describe Marquis as a brilliant strategist and an innovator with an uncanny ability to predict market trends. His achievements span industries, yet his focus remains firmly on solving problems and improving lives.
With his ventures flourishing and new opportunities on the horizon, Biodun Marquis exemplifies what it means to be a visionary leader. Whether through powering homes, redefining retail, or serving up culinary delights, his contributions continue to resonate, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs in Nigeria and beyond.
Marquis’s story is not just one of success—it’s a tale of resilience, foresight, and an unyielding drive to make a difference.
KELECHI OKORIE
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