Founder’s Profile
Biography
Saheed Azeez is a Nigerian artificial intelligence developer and entrepreneur best known as the founder of YarnGPT, a voice AI startup focused on developing text-to-speech systems tailored to Nigerian languages and accents. He gained building recognition localised AI technologies that reflect the linguistic realities of African users.
A graduate of the University of Lagos, Azeez developed YarnGPT as a personal AI research project that later evolved into a commercial voice technology platform.
Career & Leadership
Azeez founded YarnGPT in 2025 to address the lack of African representation in mainstream voice AI systems. Using locally sourced speech datasets and machine learning techniques, he developed a text-to-speech model capable of producing natural-sounding Nigerian-accented speech and supporting multiple local languages.
His work attracted attention within Nigeria’s AI ecosystem after he emerged as the first runner-up at the Bluechip Technologies AI Hackathon in 2023. The success of YarnGPT eventually led to its acquisition by Bluechip Technologies in 2026.
Vision and Impact
Azeez’s work focuses on making artificial intelligence more inclusive and representative of African cultures and languages.
His key focus areas include:
- Advancing African language AI research
- Building localised voice technology solutions
- Improving accessibility through speech technology
- Promoting indigenous language preservation through AI
- Expanding African participation in global AI innovation
Through YarnGPT, he has contributed to the growing movement of African founders building AI products designed specifically for local markets and users.
Professional LinkedIn Profile:
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Senior Reporter/Editor
Bio: Ugochukwu is a freelance journalist and Editor at AIbase.ng, with a strong professional focus on investigative reporting. He holds a degree in Mass Communication and brings extensive experience in news gathering, reporting, and editorial writing. With over a decade of active engagement across diverse news outlets, he contributes in-depth analytical, practical, and expository articles exploring artificial intelligence and its real-world impact. His seasoned newsroom experience and well-established information networks provide AIbase.ng with credible, timely, and high-quality coverage of emerging AI developments.