George Zhu: The Visionary Behind 3CHUB and Nigeria’s Smartphone Revolution

Smartphones have become central to how Nigerians live, shaping communication, work, and income generation across the country. At the center of this transformation is George Zhu, the brilliant mind behind Transsion Holdings — the parent company of Tecno, Infinix, Itel, and the popular retail chain 3CHUB.

3CHUB: Powering Nigeria’s Smartphone Market

3CHUB, officially registered as 3CHUB Brand Management Limited, is the retail arm of Transsion Holdings in Nigeria. Founded in 2015, the company began as a single outlet at Otigba, Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos — the heart of Nigeria’s mobile phone trade.

Through innovation, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of the Nigerian market, 3CHUB has grown into one of the country’s largest smartphone retail chains.

A defining moment in its growth came in 2018, when Transsion acquired Micro-Station, a major retail chain in Computer Village, for around $5 million. This move expanded 3CHUB’s presence nationwide, as all Micro-Station outlets were rebranded under the 3CHUB name, giving the brand a stronger foothold in the Nigerian smartphone ecosystem.

The Man Behind the Brand: George Zhu

Born in 1973 in Ningbo, Zhejiang Province, China, George Zhu Zhaojiang is a visionary entrepreneur with a passion for technology and emerging markets. After earning a degree in Electrical Engineering from Zhejiang University, he started his career at Rockwell International before co-founding Zhima Tech, a retail analytics company that studied consumer behavior during China’s early e-commerce boom.

In 2006, Zhu founded Transsion Holdings in Shenzhen, China. Initially focused on data analytics, the company soon pivoted to developing smartphones tailored for emerging markets, especially Africa.

How Transsion Transformed Smartphone Usage in Nigeria

Under Zhu’s leadership, Transsion launched Tecno, Infinix, and Itel, three brands that have become household names across Africa. These devices are designed specifically for affordability, durability, and user-friendliness, catering to the real needs of African consumers.

Today, Transsion dominates the Nigerian smartphone market, commanding over 63% market share. This success highlights not only Zhu’s business acumen but also how smartphones have become central to how Nigerians live — connecting millions, powering digital businesses, and creating countless job opportunities.

3CHUB’s Nationwide Presence

From one store in 2015, 3CHUB has expanded to over 46 outlets across 12 Nigerian states, with Lagos serving as its commercial anchor. The company’s headquarters, located at No. 20, Awolowo Way, Computer Village, Ikeja, manages a robust supply and retail network that supports both Transsion brands and other smartphone manufacturers.

Through its wide reach and commitment to quality service, 3CHUB has become an essential part of Nigeria’s mobile phone retail landscape — a testament to George Zhu’s commitment to innovation and inclusion.

The Future of Smartphones in Nigeria

As broadband penetration rises and mobile commerce expands, smartphones will continue to shape how Nigerians live, work, and connect. Entrepreneurs like George Zhu and companies like 3CHUB are ensuring that this growth benefits everyone, from urban consumers to small business owners across the country.