Presentations

Title: Positioning for Opportunities in the Digital Economy

The Chairman and Members Board of Trustees, esteemed members of the Ijesa Global Alliance for Development Inc. (IGAD) distinguished guests, graduates, friends, family, Ladies and Gentlemen.

It is a tremendous honor and privilege to stand before you today, the inaugural graduation ceremony of the Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub. Today, we recognize these talented individuals’ hard work and dedication and celebrate the dawn of a new era for our community, our very dear Ijesa Land, and our nation.

As we embrace the theme, “Positioning for Opportunities in the Digital Economy,” it is essential to understand the profound implications and boundless possibilities within this new frontier. The digital economy is not just a buzzword but a transformative force reshaping industries, societies, and the fabric of our daily lives.

The digital economy encompasses all economic activities that result from billions of online connections among people, businesses, devices, data, and processes. It is characterized by the pervasive use of digital technologies such as the internet, mobile devices, and cloud computing to create, process, and store information. This economy is driven by data and is marked by the rapid pace of technological innovation.

What does this mean for us? Nigeria is at the cusp of a digital revolution. Nigeria, with its youthful population and increasing internet penetration, presents a fertile ground for digital growth. Nigeria’s digital economy is a vibrant landscape teeming with opportunities that are transforming how we live, work, and interact. In recent years, we have witnessed remarkable strides in digital innovation and entrepreneurship across Nigeria.

Our nation is home to a burgeoning tech ecosystem that has produced some of the continent’s most successful startups and tech hubs. The Nigerian fintech industry, for example, has seen exponential growth, with companies like Flutterwave and Paystack leading the way in providing digital financial services. E- commerce giants like Jumia and Konga revolutionize retail, offering convenience and vast reach. Agriculture is digitally transforming with agritech startups like Releaf and ThriveAgric enhancing productivity, reducing waste, and increasing farmers’ incomes. Education is witnessing a digital renaissance, with uLesson and Gradely making learning more accessible and engaging through online platforms. Healthcare benefits from telemedicine and mobile health apps like Helium Health and 54gene, improving accessibility and efficiency. The creative industries thrive with platforms like YouTube and Instagram, providing global audiences and new revenue streams.

Your expertise in Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, and UI/UX Design fuels this digital revolution. AI and ML drive sector innovations, cybersecurity safeguards these advances, and UI/UX design ensures accessible, enjoyable user experiences.

In essence, Nigeria’s digital economy is a dynamic space where innovation drives growth and improves life quality, positioning the nation as a global digital leader.

One of Nigeria’s greatest assets in the digital economy is you! Our young population is tech-savvy, innovative, and eager to embrace new technologies. Nigerian youths have demonstrated their prowess in various other fields within the digital space.

Institutions like the Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub are crucial in harnessing this talent and equipping our youth with the skills they need to thrive in the digital economy. By providing training, mentorship, and resources, these hubs are nurturing the next generation of digital leaders and entrepreneurs. We all need to show our gratitude to the IGAD Board of Trustees led by Prince Bimbo Olashore, your instructors led by

our Coordinator Dr Conilus Adewale, and your mentors. We must especially thank Mr Femi Bakare our son and Olashore International School.

In positioning for opportunities in the digital economy, let me share a part of my journey, which I hope will inspire you for the opportunities that abound to you. I grew up in Osogbo and Ere-City, where I sold coconut candy and did photography with a pinhole camera I was gifted by my brother in the early years of my childhood. These humble beginnings instilled in me the values of hard work and perseverance. By God’s grace and through the opportunities afforded in the digital economy, I was able to start Chams HoldCo PLC, growing it from nothing to a company listed on the Nigerian Exchange.

Working with teams at Chams HoldCoPLC, we implemented national impact projects like the Bank Verification Number (BVN), National ID (BVN), INEC Voter Database (VIN), and the NCC SIMREG projects. These achievements were possible because I embraced the opportunities within the digital economy, continuously learned, and remained resilient in the face of challenges. If a young man like you from Ere Ijesa, just 10km or 20 minutes from here can do it by God’s Grace, you can do even better with the opportunities IGAD has offered you.

If you think my generation is far from yours, let me salute two of our youth doing amazing work in Nigeria: Dr Adewale Obadare of Digital Encode Limited and Tomiwa Aladekomo of TechCabal/Zikoko

As you, the graduates of the Ijesa Digital Innovation Hub, embark on your journey in the digital economy, it is crucial to position yourselves strategically to seize the opportunities ahead. To thrive in the digital economy and become catalysts for positive change, the 3Gs and 3Cs are values you must cultivate:

1.       Grit: Grit is the unwavering determination to achieve long-term goals. It is the perseverance to overcome obstacles and setbacks. In the digital economy, challenges are inevitable, but grit will keep you focused and motivated.

2.       Give: Generosity is a powerful value. Share your knowledge, skills, and resources with others. By giving, you create a supportive community and foster collaboration. The society around us has become beggarly, focusing on what can be done for us rather than what we can do for society. We must change this mindset. Ask yourselves: What value can I bring? How can I contribute to my community, my country, and the world? By adopting a mindset of contribution and innovation, you become catalysts for positive change.

3.       Gratitude: Cultivate an attitude of gratitude. Appreciate the opportunities you have and the people who support you. Gratitude enhances well-being and fosters positive relationships, both personally and professionally.

4.       Charisma: Charisma is the ability to inspire and influence others. It involves effective communication, empathy, and confidence. Charismatic individuals are not only leaders but also motivators who bring out the best in others.

5.       Character: Your character defines who you are. It encompasses integrity, honesty, and ethical behavior. In the digital world, where trust is paramount, having a strong character will earn you respect and credibility.

6.       Competence: Competence is the combination of skills, knowledge, and expertise. Strive for excellence in your chosen field. Stay updated with industry trends, enhance your technical skills, and deliver high-quality work.