Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to building a robust digital ecosystem in Anambra State.
The Governor made this assertion during the grand finale of the Anambra Innovation Week 2024, held at the International Convention Centre, Awka, on Friday.
He emphasized that technology and innovation are pivotal to Anambra’s future, noting that they are integral to his administration’s agenda.
“The importance of this event has been underscored,” Soludo stated. “This week-long event highlights the significance we attach to this journey.”
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He explained that Anambra is on a transformative path, envisioning a future where the state evolves from a departure lounge to a destination point.
“We are building the African Dubai-Taiwan. Think of our own Silicon Valley,” he said. “We are nurturing human capital that is productive at home and exportable abroad.
“I commend all participants from 24 states in Nigeria. This initiative will only grow stronger and more impactful.”
The Governor also reaffirmed Anambra’s position as Nigeria’s leading commercial and logistics hub, as well as an entertainment powerhouse. He emphasized his administration’s deliberate efforts to deepen technology and innovation across the state.
“Technology and innovation define Anambra’s future. Technology is key,” Soludo added.
The keynote speaker, Ehia Ehabo, Co-Founder of AI in Nigeria, spoke on Driving Investment in Africa Through Technology, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship. He highlighted that every challenge in Africa presents multiple opportunities, particularly given the continent’s vibrant youth population.
Ms. Chinwe Okoli, Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, whose agency organized the Innovation Week, applauded the Governor for his unwavering support and vision.
“This is the first of its kind in Anambra State; a week-long event dedicated to innovation and technology.
“Governor Soludo believes in technology. His administration’s mantra is ‘everything technology, technology everywhere,’ and he is intentionally fostering the ecosystem,” she said.
The event was attended by notable figures, including Secretary to the State Government Prof. Solo Chukwulobelu, Head of Service Barr. Theodora Igwegbe, Chief of Staff to the Governor Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, and tech leaders from organizations such as AI, Meta, and UNDP.
Hundreds of youths, primarily inventors, were rewarded with ₦100 million in cash prizes during the “Battle for Solution” competition.