Breni: A Nigerian EdTech Rising in Asia

The Rise of Breni: A Nigerian Edtech Startup Redefining Learning

Two Nigerians are making waves in the global edtech space with an innovative education app that is changing how students and teachers approach learning. Abubakar Sadiq Umar and Bilal Abdullahi, co-founders of Breni, are working to bridge the gap in educational systems by offering a personalized learning experience tailored to individual needs.

Unlike many edtech startups in Nigeria that focus on online platforms with pre-recorded courses, Breni takes a different approach. The startup leverages artificial intelligence (AI) to create a more flexible and adaptive learning environment. This method addresses the diverse learning styles and language preferences of users, which traditional schools often overlook.

Addressing Educational Challenges

In Northern Nigeria, where language barriers and limited access to technology can hinder learning, Breni aims to provide a solution. Umar explains that the current educational system is outdated, with students being taught using methods from previous centuries. He emphasizes the need for modern approaches that cater to the unique needs of today's learners.

Breni was officially launched in August 2025 and has already attracted over 3,000 users from more than 20 countries. Surprisingly, 90% of these users are outside Nigeria, highlighting the app's global appeal.

From University to Entrepreneurship

Umar and Abdullahi met while studying computer science at Yusuf Maitama Sule University in Kano. Their shared passion for technology led them to explore ways to improve the educational ecosystem in Northern Nigeria. After graduation, they both worked at Kayi, a Nigerian fintech company, before leaving to start Breni together in 2024.

Despite being new to the edtech space, the founders recognized the potential for growth and impact in the sector. With the Nigerian edtech market valued at $400 million, there is significant room for innovation and expansion.

How Breni Works

Breni’s primary goal is to make learning personalized and accessible. The app uses AI-integrated tools to break down lessons into short, micro modules, making it easier for users to understand complex topics. Gamification elements such as streaks, leaderboards, and quizzes make learning engaging and fun.

The app also employs cognitive science techniques similar to those used by social media platforms to keep users engaged. Features like spaced repetition ensure that learners revisit concepts at optimal intervals, reinforcing memory retention.

Once users sign up, they receive content based on their personal information, including age, experience level, location, and preferred learning styles. Instead of creating its own content, Breni uses AI models and Large Language Models (LLMs) to generate courses based on user searches. Users can also set reminders and schedule classes at their convenience.

Multilingual and Versatile Learning

Breni supports over 100 languages, allowing users to learn in their preferred language, such as Hausa, Spanish, or French. The app is not limited to traditional subjects; users can learn anything from cooking rice to coding.

Breni operates on a freemium model, with a free version containing ads and a subscription model offering unlimited access to courses. Premium subscriptions range from $1 in Nigeria to $5 in other countries, reflecting the economic differences across regions. In just 37 days, the company generated N200,000 ($137) in revenue.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its success, Breni faces challenges. The business model, which relies heavily on ads and low subscription pricing, may be fragile in the short term. Additionally, the user base is still relatively small, limiting the potential for meaningful ad revenue.

Northern Nigeria presents unique challenges, including a smaller startup ecosystem, fewer investors, and limited technology adoption. However, the region is slowly seeing more tech breakthroughs as several tech hubs have been established in various states.

Global Reach and Competitive Edge

Although Breni was built for Nigerians, 90% of its audience is outside the country. Nepal has the highest number of users, followed by Russia and Nigeria. The app has also gained traction in countries like Uzbekistan, Azerbaijan, the UAE, South Africa, Canada, the US, and the UK.

While competitors like Coursera and Duolingo dominate the market, Breni’s AI-powered personalized and gamified learning offers a unique advantage. Its traction in unexpected geographies suggests strong adoption and could position it as a key player in the edtech space.