The digital revolution presents a profound opportunity for Nigerian youths to achieve self-reliance and economic empowerment, as emphasized by technology experts during the Lagos Spring School in Digital Entrepreneurship and Digital Culture. This convergence of academics, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders underscored the critical need for young Nigerians to embrace technology, not just as consumers, but as creators and innovators, harnessing its potential to drive economic growth and societal transformation. The traditional emphasis on seeking scarce white-collar jobs is becoming increasingly obsolete in the face of rapid technological advancements. Instead, the focus should shift towards equipping young people with the digital skills and entrepreneurial mindset necessary to create their own opportunities and contribute actively to the evolving digital economy. This shift requires a fundamental change in perspective, moving from job seeking to job creation, fueled by the innovative power of technology.
The accessibility of technology has democratized entrepreneurship, making it possible for individuals with limited resources to launch successful businesses. Professor Tunde Ope-Davies, the convener of the Lagos Spring School, highlighted the diminished importance of large capital investments in today’s digital landscape. He illustrated this point with the example of Uber, a multi-billion dollar company built by two individuals with laptops. This underscores the transformative power of technology, enabling individuals to leverage digital platforms and tools to create scalable businesses with minimal upfront investment. The shift from traditional brick-and-mortar models to digital platforms lowers the barrier to entry for aspiring entrepreneurs, empowering them to develop innovative solutions and reach global markets with relative ease. This democratization of entrepreneurship is a key driver of economic growth and social mobility, particularly in developing economies like Nigeria.
Tim Akano, CEO of New Horizon and keynote speaker at the event, issued a clarion call to young Nigerians to embrace technology as a means of personal and national advancement. He urged them to acquire the necessary digital skills to thrive in the rapidly evolving, AI-driven world. Akano’s message emphasized the urgency for Africa, and Nigeria in particular, to break free from historical disadvantages and actively participate in the global innovation race. He challenged the audience to move from the “luggage compartment of humanity” to the “front seat of technology,” competing with the rest of the world in technological innovation and development. This call to action underscores the potential for technology to transform Nigeria from a consumer of technology to a producer and innovator, driving economic growth and global competitiveness.
The imperative for educational institutions to adapt to the changing technological landscape was also emphasized by Professor Folusho Afolabi-Leshi, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos. Representing the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, Afolabi-Leshi stressed the need for universities to integrate technology into their curricula, preparing students for the demands of the digital age. Technology, he argued, is not merely a tool, but a catalyst for social development and empowerment. This perspective highlights the transformative power of technology to improve lives, create opportunities, and drive societal progress. It emphasizes the importance of equipping students with the digital literacy and skills necessary to navigate the increasingly complex digital world and contribute meaningfully to the digital economy.
The rapid pace of technological advancement necessitates a proactive approach to education and skills development. Afolabi-Leshi warned that many existing jobs will become obsolete within the next five to ten years due to automation and the rise of artificial intelligence. This stark reality underscores the urgent need for educational institutions to prepare students with relevant digital skills, ensuring their employability and competitiveness in the future job market. The traditional focus on theoretical knowledge must be complemented by practical skills training in areas such as coding, data analysis, digital marketing, and cybersecurity, empowering graduates to thrive in the evolving digital landscape. This proactive approach to education and skills development is essential for mitigating the potential negative impacts of automation and ensuring that young people are equipped to succeed in the future of work.
The Lagos Spring School served as a vital platform for fostering dialogue and collaboration amongst stakeholders in the Nigerian technology ecosystem. The event highlighted the transformative potential of technology to empower young Nigerians, drive economic growth, and position Nigeria as a global competitor in the digital age. The key takeaways from the event emphasized the importance of embracing technology, developing relevant digital skills, fostering an entrepreneurial mindset, and adapting educational curricula to meet the demands of the evolving digital landscape. By embracing these imperatives, Nigeria can unlock the full potential of its young population, driving innovation, creating opportunities, and securing a prosperous future in the global digital economy. The shared vision and collaborative spirit fostered at the event are crucial for driving progress and achieving the shared goal of a technologically advanced and economically empowered Nigeria.
