Business a.m
In the face of on-going economic headwinds and the lingering effects of global macro-economic challenges, there have been calls for concerted efforts to create thriving technology hubs in cities outside of Lagos and Abuja. These calls are part of broader efforts to boost the Nigerian economy and shore up fiscal and monetary policy.
The potential of technology hubs to drive economic growth and address some of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges has been recognized by policy makers. These hubs are seen as catalysts for innovation, job creation, and inclusive development. They are also seen as a way to increase demand for digital solutions that can improve people’s lives across a range of areas.
Moniepoint, a leading fintech company, has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering individuals and businesses through financial technology, as it announced its support for the Enugu Tech Summit. The company believes that investing in tech hubs outside of the traditional tech centers is essential for creating a more inclusive technology landscape in Nigeria.
The Enugu Tech Summit, brought together industry leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and government stakeholders to discuss the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities in the technology sector. By sponsoring and actively participating in this event, Moniepoint aims to contribute to the development of the nation’s burgeoning tech sector which will give room for the creation of more startups that will positively impact the country’s economy.
According to Ifeanyi Duru, the vice president of sales and partnerships at Moniepoint, the company is excited to be supporting the Enugu Tech Summit because it aligns with its mission to promote financial inclusion. He noted that Moniepoint believes that by expanding the geographical footprint of technology hubs, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of the tech sector, and reap the benefits that come with a well-balanced system.
“We are confident that events like this and the recently held Akwa Ibom Tech Week which we also supported will play a crucial role in shaping the future of technology in Nigeria,” Duru said.
Peter Mbah,the Enugu State governor, delivered a keynote address at the summit in which he pledged to continue training at least 40,000 youths across the state in digital and entrepreneurial skills.
Speaking to the theme of the summit, “Innovation Unleashed: Transforming Enugu’s Future”, the governor stated that the training would be part of his administration’s effort to create an environment where the youths of the state can thrive. He also said that the government’s strategy was to provide opportunities for the youth to realise their full potential and contribute to the economic development of the state.
Governor Mbah emphasised that his administration is taking measures to encourage the young people of Enugu to harness their creative energies and embrace the future of robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, virtual reality, and innovation through information and technology skills. He stated that these measures will help to position the state for the Fourth Industrial Revolution and create opportunities for its residents.
“My objective here is to get you to begin to think digitally, to understand that the emerging future is the one that requires you to acquire a digital skill to thrive. The innovation landscape here is not barren at all. With your innovation here, you are able to create a greener pasture right here on our soil than any other place in the world. See this event as a serious business where you have come to acquire a skill; a skill of a lifetime. A skill that will enable you to conquer the world right here in Enugu State,” the governor said.
Williams Uchemba, the founder and convener of TxE Africa, expressed his gratitude to the sponsors of the summit, including Moniepoint. He noted that the event represented the immense potential and promise that Enugu holds for the youth in the fields of technology and entrepreneurship.
