Nigeria Startup Act Gains Momentum in Oyo as Buhari Urges States to Compete for Local Solutions

President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his desire for states in Nigeria to collaborate and compete not just with themselves but with other countries in the world.

President Muhammadu Buhari | Image Source: dailypost.ng

The president made this known today at the Ecosystem Engagement on the Adoption of the Nigeria Startup Act in Oyo State, which took place at The House of Assembly Complex Oyo State Secretariat, Ibadan.

Buhari, who was represented by his Senior Special Assistant on Digital Transformation, Mr. Oswald Osaretin Guobadia, noted that he wants states in Nigeria to provide solutions to local problems, as this is the only way the country can move forward in the right direction.

Mr. Guobadia, who is also the Nigeria Startup Act Lead, said the Nigeria Startup Act Ecosystem Engagement initiates the process of adopting the NSA in each state. He urged the Oyo state government to adopt the initiative and also fast track its implementation as it will enhance business and the economy of the state.

In his remarks, the governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, noted that his government was committed to providing an enabling environment for tech entrepreneurs to thrive and contribute to the development of the state.

The governor was represented at the occasion by his Special Assistant on Information Communication and Technology (ICT) and e-Governance, Mr. Adebayo Akande.

Mr. Akande reiterated the need for collaboration among Nigeria's states in the area of technology, urging them to work together to harness the opportunities offered by the digital age.

He emphasized the importance of technology in the modern world and its potential to transform various aspects of life, including business, healthcare, education, and governance.

Speaking at the event, Nigeria Startup Act State Adoption Lead, Mrs. Tracy Okoro, emphasized the need for Nigerians to stop waiting for the government to help with their problems. She noted that entrepreneurs and business owners are the major solution to issues affecting the country.

Mrs. Okoro also urged Nigerians to learn about web development as it is a major source of income for them.

Prof. Adenike Osofisan, the first female professor of computer science and the first president of the Computer Professionals Association of Nigeria, also spoke at the event. She advised the young ones to help improve and develop the country with their knowledge of Information Technology (IT).

Regarding the adoption and engagement of the Nigeria Startup Act, she expressed that it is favorable that this is occurring at present, as the country has been discussing the need for economic diversification due to dependence on oil, and the growth of the Information Technology sector through startups can lead to an economic boom.

Other dignitaries present at the event were: Prof. (Engr.) Oke of Seyi Makinde Innovation Technology Hub, Mr. Niran Oyekale, Executive Chairman of Commet Tech, among others.