Technology experts want government to formulate policy that will boost innovative technology culture among Nigerians operating in both the public space and private sectors of the nation’s economy, stating that Nigeria cannot afford to be left out as the global economy is now driven by cutting-edge innovation and creative solutions.
The experts are worried that government is not harnessing innovative culture among Nigerians citing that it is high time to raise the bar with national policies geared toward the achieving a digital economic landmark that will transform socio-economic prosperity of the nation.
The experts spoke at the maiden edition of experiential tech-focused lifestyle and knowledge exchange event series, tagged UNCODE 2019 recently held at the Alliance Française, in Lagos. It was organised by Livespot360.
The forum had tech leaders including Iddris Sandu, Tech Virtuoso that built algorithms for Uber, Instagram and Snapchat; Co-founder of BuyCoins, Ire Aderinokun; Head at Africa Fintech Foundry, Segun Adeniyi; Co-founder of Andela and Eden Life, Nadayar Enegesi; Yvonne Alozie, Director of Programs at Gitgirl amongst others shared insight on how best to develop the nations digital economy.
Its key note speaker Iddris Sandu who spoke on the Future of Technology in Africa, said “Africans do not have the necessary skills set in technology to show the world how their culture works. What happens is we follow the western way of doing things… but we haven’t seen technology really emerge from Africa in the way that it was dictated by Africans and it was created for Africans, so what results is that Africans are not aware of their capabilities.“
“When we talk about funding and we talk about just why our apps aren’t trending in the top 100. It’s not really because of quality. It’s because the system wasn’t really designed for the metrics that define us to be at the forefront,” he explained.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Livespot360, Deola Art Alade who shared more light on the theme of the forum stated that “With UNCODE, we have created a platform for Nigeria’s top tech industry and creative players to come together to inspire new ideas that will serve as an accelerator for change.
“We want the participants to, after the event, seek boundary-breaking ideas that will provide sustainable digital solutions for Africa by Africans, ushering in a new era of globally relevant, yet locally developed technology solutions.
“UNCODE was created especially for digital enthusiasts, creatives, and futurists who desire an avenue for cultural technology synergy in Africa. We aim to inspire, educate and mentor local talents in digital and creative fields while preserving culture for truly indigenous and unique creations.”
The forum was supported by Africa Fintech Foundry, Mike Adenuga Foundation, Alliance Francaise, BHM, Beat FM, Lagos Talks, Rent A Rig, Cool FM, Wazobia FM, Nigeria Info, Nigerian Breweries and Pepsi.
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