Expanding Innovation Beyond Urban Borders: Expert Advocates for Nationwide Impact
In a recent development, Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa, the Director of NitHub and a Senior Lecturer at the University of Lagos, highlighted a concerning trend in Nigeria’s innovation landscape.
Speaking at the FSI Innovation Showcase Contest, Dr. Odumuyiwa emphasized that a majority of the technological advancements in Nigeria are concentrated in the major cities of Lagos and Abuja.
While acknowledging the efforts of stakeholders in the ICT sector for organizing forums and innovation contests, Dr. Odumuyiwa expressed his concern that the positive impacts of these initiatives are disproportionately felt in urban areas.
He stressed the need for a more inclusive approach to encourage innovation among young Nigerians across the entire country.
Dr. Odumuyiwa underlined the importance of extending innovative programs beyond major cities, stating, “If we want to solve Nigeria’s problems, we have to keep encouraging the young ones to innovate.”
He pointed out that millions of young people in the hinterland, particularly in the North, lack access to education and opportunities for innovation.
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Highlighting the University of Lagos’ initiatives, Dr. Odumuyiwa discussed the institution’s commitment to becoming an innovation hub.
He mentioned various platforms on campus designed to support innovation, including an innovation office managing intellectual property registration and fostering talent upskilling.
Dr. Odumuyiwa encouraged a shift in mindset among students, emphasizing the importance of creating solutions rather than merely seeking good grades and degrees.
He applauded the alignment of the university’s initiatives with the goals of FSI, which aims to support the development and growth of innovative products.
Additionally, Dr. Odumuyiwa urged the Nigerian government to create an environment conducive to the growth of local industries in digital technology.
He advocated for a departure from dependence on imported technologies, emphasizing the need to foster an ecosystem that promotes the development of homegrown digital solutions.
As Nigeria grapples with various challenges, Dr. Victor Odumuyiwa’s call for nationwide innovation serves as a rallying cry to bridge the gap between urban and rural areas, ensuring that the benefits of technological advancements reach all corners of the country.
