Yesterday marked a significant milestone in our efforts to support and enhance the Nigerian SME sector within the tech ecosystem. The day was filled with key engagements and discussions aimed at fostering collaboration between our local initiatives and the U.S. government.
The day commenced at the Global Tech Africa Conference, where I had the honor of meeting with U.S. Consul General Will Stevens from the US Mission Nigeria. This meeting was crucial as it set the stage for our collaborative efforts to strengthen Nigerian SMEs through governmental support and resources. Our discussions were both insightful and promising, highlighting the mutual commitment to advancing technological innovation and entrepreneurship in Nigeria.
Later that morning, I participated in a fireside chat alongside esteemed colleagues Kenise Hill and Jennifer Adighije. Our conversation focused on strategies to accelerate Nigeria’s digital economy, sharing valuable insights and perspectives on the opportunities and challenges facing the tech sector. This dialogue was instrumental in shaping our approach to driving digital transformation and economic growth.
A highlight of the day was the formal signing of the partnership agreement for the Start-Up Support and Engagement Portal. This agreement, forged between NITDA and Venture Garden Group, marks a significant step towards creating a robust support system for Nigerian startups. The portal is expected to provide crucial resources and networking opportunities, thereby boosting the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
In the afternoon, I made a brief but impactful visit to ARISE News, where I recorded a segment for Business Week with AraMidé and Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani. Our discussion centered around the vital role of MSMEs in driving economic growth and sustainable development, emphasizing the need for continued support and investment in this sector.
The day concluded with a delightful and intimate dinner hosted by Consul General Stevens at his residence. This gathering was a perfect opportunity to continue our earlier discussions, engage with other key stakeholders, and enjoy a warm and engaging evening in honor of Global Tech Africa. The dinner provided a relaxed setting for building relationships and exploring further collaboration opportunities.
Overall, yesterday’s events were a testament to the strong and growing partnership between Nigeria and the U.S., promising exciting developments for our tech ecosystem and SMEs.
