UYO

– The organizers of the ongoing Innovate 2025 Conference have urged young Nigerians to overcome obstacles and utilize new technologies to develop solutions, generate value, and redefine Africa’s digital landscape.

In his keynote speech titled “From Obstacles to Opportunities: Defying the Odds in Tech,” Founder of For The Love of DeFi and Convener of Innovate 25, Godswill Akpan, emphasized the importance of adopting an intentional problem-solving mindset within the technology sector. He urged participants not just to join but to actively innovate and drive change.

“We don’t merely discuss ideas; we create. The future is reserved for individuals who can challenge the status quo. Numerous young people encounter various obstacles—some are unfamiliar with Web3 technology, while others find it difficult to secure financing or obtain suitable resources. However, each stage of development presents its own difficulties, and only those possessing the appropriate attitude can surmount these barriers,” stated Akpan.

In reflecting on the successful 2024 iteration of the conference, Akpan highlighted how the large attendance motivated enhancements for this year’s event, such as incorporating a pre-conference hackathon. He further explained: “While last year spanned three days, we extended this year’s schedule with a hackathon to guarantee that instead of merely talking about innovation, we actively develop practical solutions.”

He encouraged young people to adopt a thoughtful strategy towards using technology, stressing that innovation does not happen by chance but is the result of careful structuring, planning, and implementation.

As he puts it, “You are either navigating life by default or through deliberate planning. People who follow the path of default tend to react passively, lacking specific objectives. In contrast, those who embrace planned living actively focus on acquiring knowledge, adapting, and strategically placing themselves to seize international chances.”

Discussing how to transform Africa’s narrative regarding builders’ reliability and draw investments, Awosika Israel Ayodeji, Chief Mechanic at Web&Bridge, highlighted the importance of establishing credibility. He underscored that trust must be earned rather than assumed.

“The previous doubt regarding African technology is changing. We are transitioning from an underdeveloped marketplace to a vibrant center brimming with skilled individuals and flourishing startup companies. However, we need to maintain openness, international collaborations, and eco-friendly innovations,” he stated.

He indicated growing venture capital investment, wider acceptance of blockchain technology, and the rise of African unicorn start-ups worth more than $1 billion as evidence that the continent is advancing significantly within the tech sector.

In her talk at Blocks to Blockchain Developer: Myths, Methods, and Materials, Glory Praise Emmanuel delved into the shift from conventional tech to blockchain, clarifying the key ideas and techniques that characterize this field.

The event included panel discussions that explored how artificial intelligence, decentralized finance, and blockchain technology are transforming various sectors. Experts urged greater cooperation and more funding for startup companies in Africa. Additionally, the conference offered opportunities for networking, engaging dialogues, and a quiz contest.

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