Emmanuel Benjamin’s Post

The Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Domineum/Edenbase UK, heralding the birth of Abuja Tech City. This strategic alliance aims to harness the transformative power of technology, emulating the remarkable success of London Tech City and setting a new benchmark for innovation in Africa. Abuja Tech City is envisioned as a sustainable, smart city integrating tech startups, industries, education, and green spaces, anchored by the ministry's ambitious Agenda 8 and 9 initiatives focused on clean technology and green manufacturing. This project not only signifies Nigeria's commitment to fostering a thriving tech ecosystem but also marks a significant step towards realizing the nation's potential as a global tech hub. With the backing of the team behind London's tech success story, Abuja Tech City is set to redefine the landscape of technological innovation, creating a hub that promises to drive economic growth, foster international collaboration, and propel Nigeria onto the global stage of tech giants. #AbujaTechCity #NigeriaTechRevolution #InnovationInAfrica #GreenTech #SmartCities #TechHub #GlobalTechLeaders #SustainableDevelopment #TechEcosystem

When I was in school, all I wanted was to move to Lagos. A land of OPPORTUNITIES. I believe the same was true for some people. Want to make it big? Move to Lagos, the land of opportunity for every field. Nowadays, I hear younger people in my estate feel the same way about Lagos. “If I want to make it big, I have to go to where the opportunities are,” they say. My answer? Almost anywhere. In today's fast-paced world, technology has become a game-changer for everyone. From streamlining operations and enhancing productivity to opening new markets and fostering innovation, the impact of technology is undeniable. This transformative power of technology is what makes events like the Akwa Ibom Tech Week so important. The AKTW goes beyond an event; it’s your opportunity to dive into innovation, connect with industry leaders, acquire practical skills, and become part of future tech giants. Akwa Ibom is another state creating a tech ecosystem outside of Lagos. So, don't miss out on this unique opportunity to be part of a transformative experience. Akwa Ibom Tech Week promises to be an enriching event that will not only boost your knowledge and skills but also inspire you to take your career or business to the next level. Join Akwa Ibom Tech Week and be part of the tech revolution that's shaping the future of the tech ecosystem in Nigeria. #nigeria #todayafrica #africa #africanstories #africanentrepreneur #storytelling #startupstories

Picture this: You step into a city where innovation hums in the air, and every corner resonates with the rhythm of collaboration. That's Itana (Formerly known as Talent City)- a digital residency with builders, innovators, and entrepreneurs deeply passionate about Africa's destiny. Itana is Africa's first free zone, built on three pillars - policy, infrastructure, and community. It offers a haven for businesses by providing robust digital infrastructure, fostering innovation-friendly policies, and creating a vibrant, like-minded community. It is an ecosystem built for global businesses to access Africa's thriving markets. More than being a digital space, the first phase of Itana physical district development is slated for completion by 2027, laying the groundwork for a model city and infrastructure that will redefine how tech thrives in Africa. It is being built on a 72,000-square-meter plot of land located in Alaro City, a 2,000-hectare city-scale development area in the Lekki Free Zone. Itana's story began with Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, co-founder of Andela and Flutterwave. Faced with infrastructure challenges, he envisioned a place where tech innovators could thrive in a conducive environment. Itana is co-founded by Luqman Edu (CEO) alongside Coco Liu (COO). Itana isn't just a place on the map; it's a vibrant community where minds converge, ideas flourish, and collaboration isn't just encouraged; it's a way of life. #buildlagos #innovationspotlight

"Unlocking the Potential of African Entrepreneurs: Insights from the Katapult Pre-acceleration Research Report" Early-stage entrepreneurial support organizations (ESOs) in Africa play a crucial role in nurturing the continent's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Having worked closely with numerous startups, I understand the challenges and opportunities that pre-acceleration programs present. This Katapult Pre-acceleration Research Report sheds light on these critical aspects. The report reveals several key insights: 1. Structured Data and Clear Definitions: There's a pressing need for more structured data, clear definitions, and consistent performance metrics to enhance the effectiveness of pre-acceleration programs. 2. Best Practices: Successful programs implement rigorous selection processes, tailored program delivery, and robust outcome measurement. 3. Challenges: Inconsistent terminology, lack of alignment with local contexts, insufficient qualified staff, and data inconsistencies are significant hurdles. 4. Data-Driven Optimization: Emphasizing data-driven optimization and stakeholder alignment is essential for the success of these programs. What do you think are the most critical factors for the success of pre-acceleration programs in Africa? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments! #Entrepreneurship #PreAcceleration #Africa #StartupSupport #KatapultReport

📢Save the date! Join us in Swakopmund on 29 January 2024, for a Community Dialogue on Entrepreneurship and Opportunities for Employment Creation. Let’s unite for insightful discussions, networking, and shaping a community that champions our shared goals. Together, we make a difference! 🌐🤝 #namibianeedsme #strenghteningdemocraticparticipation #nextgeneration #NNM #namyouth4change #init2gether #futureleaders #educateyourself #namibiamycountry #youthadvocacy #democracy4namibia #iplaymypart #mydutytovote #iwillvote #embraceyourcivicrights #namibia Disclaimer: The Namibia Needs Me Project is funded by the EU. This post and its content is the sole responsibility of the NID and does not necessarily reflect the views of the European Union.

Is Kenya slowly becoming Africa's Silicon Valley? Kenya has been touted to be a major hub for tech companies which are seeking to develop products and solutions that are fit for the African market. The country is also home to many tech start-ups that are seeking to solve African problems by incorporating technology in their solutions. The current growth trajectory in this nascent industry presents the country with an opportunity to cement its position as a technology hub. The availability of talent and access to affordable internet are some of factors that have contributed to the rise of the country’s prominence in technology matters. The Government, on the other hand, set out a framework to develop what has been dubbed as the Silicon Savannah and established Konza Technopolis. Konza Technopolis is a flagship project under Kenya’s Vision 2030 economic development blueprint. It is seeking to become a world-class city that is powered by information, communications, and technology (ICT) which is supported by a superior and reliable infrastructure. #siliconvalley #africanentrepreneurs #kenyabusiness

🌐💡 "Championing Tech Talent in Northern Nigeria: A Call to Action for Kashifu Inuwa (Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE)" As Director-General of NITDA, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, CCIE has undeniably supported the grassroots and initiated valuable projects in Northern Nigeria. His commitment to regional development is both notable and praiseworthy. 👏 Yet, there's a growing conversation about his engagement with the region's IT youth. Are we missing opportunities for mentorship and guidance? 🤔 While his broader contributions are appreciated, his presence and active involvement in local tech events seem limited. This raises a question: Is enough being done to nurture and recognize the emerging IT talents in Northern Nigeria? 🚀 Startups in the region, brimming with potential, require more than just financial aid. They need awareness, mentorship, and investor connections. Are we doing enough to bring these crucial elements to the forefront? 🌟 Kashifu Inuwa's role could be pivotal in elevating these young innovators. It's a call to reflect and ask - How can we better harness his expertise and influence to uplift the next tech generation in Northern Nigeria? 🤝 #TechTalent #NorthernNigeria #ITYouth #MentorshipMatters #InnovationGrowth #KashifuInuwa #NITDA Abubakar Baba AminNajeeb G. Abdulhamid, PhD Dr. Najib Dankadai Iklima Musa Murtala Nuhu CCISO, CCFE, ACE, MICT LAW Ahamed Sani Kazaure Murtala Lawan USMAN KAMILU YUNUSA

After a hectic week of meeting many entrepreneurs, young and old, male and female alike, from pregnant women to nursing mothers and physically challenged, the EISD-NEIP Startup Acceleration Selection Train has covered all the districts in northern region across the three zones. The week has not only been successful but all the more insightful. In all, we received a total of 568 applications and shortlisted 270 applicants for interviews across the three zones. 237 of the shortlisted applicants turned up for interviews and pitching, with 132 (56%) being females and 105 (44%) being males. There were 5 physically challenged applicants across the zones. The businesses were in Agricultural services, Agribusiness and Processing, ICT, Energy, Education, Green Industries, Beauty and Personal Care, Hospitality, Water and Sanitation, Health, Clothing, and Accessories. All of these applicants are out there breaking their backs trying to make a living; doing their very best to be relevant and make a difference in one way or another. After sifting through all the interviews and business ideas presented, the team would be selecting the finalists to face off at the Regional Pitch Competition in a fortnight. Stay tuned for more details on that. Below are pictures across the zones. National Entrepreneurship and Innovation Programme-NEIP World Bank World Bank Africa Ministry of Finance, Ghana #eisdfosteringsocietalequity #Eisdgh #NEIP

The big tech ecosystem in Nigeria is here Dont be left out

While technology, education and entrepreneurship are my core research areas, I also have a strong interest in research and policy works that target ordinary people. It was great interacting with the director of Ikhala Trust, and learning about their impactful works to support communities in the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa. #socioeconomic #africandevelopment #internationaldevelopment