Young innovators from across Nigeria have identified lack of awareness, inadequate infrastructure, and limited access to digital resources as significant barriers to youth-led innovation in the country.
The young innovators spoke at an event organised in Abuja to mark the Global Accessibility Awareness Day (GAAD).
The GAAD event brought together a diverse group of tech entrepreneurs, policy advocates, and communication experts to discuss the digital divide and the role of innovation in fostering inclusivity.
Participants at the event highlighted the urgent need for improved digital access to bridge the information gap in underserved communities.
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Asma’u Abdullahi, the convener of the event and executive director of Slumtech, a FinTech organisation dedicated to developing sustainable technologies for urban low-income communities, emphasised the importance of creating an enabling environment for young innovators.
“This is an avenue for everyone in the FinTech sector to thrive, connect, and explore opportunities,” Abdullahi said.
She highlighted Slumtech’s efforts to support rural communities and encourage more female participation in tech, noting the organisation’s plans for ongoing mentorship through courses and clubs.
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Eric Obianozie, founder of 24 Telemed, a healthcare startup providing telemedicine services to remote areas, shared his experiences with the challenges of introducing technology to underserved regions.
“When we launched 24 Telemed in Anambra and Kaduna, we encountered serious resistance,” Obianozie said.
He expressed optimism that initiatives like GAAD could help demystify technology and promote its acceptance as a tool for better healthcare, education, and economic empowerment.
Jakpo Ukueku, the chief executive officer (CEO) of Rayven Strategic Communication Limited, underscored the knowledge gap in Nigeria’s tech space.
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“A lot of people in the tech space are not just held back by infrastructure but by a lack of information,” Ukueku said.
He stressed the importance of strategic partnerships and private sector involvement in promoting technological advancement and inclusivity.
