Bridging Digital Divide: UK Invests in Nigeria’s Tech Ecosystem, Focus on Infrastructure, Skills, and Inclusion

…Hub Fosters Collaboration and Expertise

The United Kingdom has reiterated its multifaceted commitment to foster a robust and inclusive digital ecosystem in the West African nation.

This was made known at a workshop held at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, which brought together tech journalists and UK representatives to discuss the UK’s significant investments in Nigeria’s digital future.

According to the representatives, UK is here to stay and ready to invest heavily in Nigeria’s digital future. This collaborative approach, focus on inclusion, and substantial investment in infrastructure and skills development as Nigeria aimed for a brighter digital tomorrow.

Speaking at the workshop, the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, led by Oyinkan Akintola-Bello disclosed stimulating local digital economies and fostering partnerships between tech hubs. The hub focuses on developing high-end digital skills aligns with the vision of a self-regulating and collaborative tech ecosystem in Nigeria.

The UK-Nigeria Tech Hub, a UK government initiative launched in 2019, was part of the International Tech Hub Network, which was delivered by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Akintola-Bello explained that the DSIT and FCDO were under the UK Government’s Digital Access Programme (DAP).

According to her, the initiative has empowered 168 tech-driven SMEs and early-stage startups, connecting them with 55 investors. She also noted that UK involvement extends beyond infrastructure. By fostering local talent, promoting responsible growth, and empowering diverse voices, the Hub is not just writing a success story for Nigerian tech, but paving the way for a more equitable and technologically advanced future for all.

She noted the hub recently collaborated with Google for Startups on a $3 million investment in cloud credits specifically for female tech founders in Nigeria. This not only empowers women entrepreneurs, but also breaks down barriers to entry in the tech industry.

“Building upon our successful pilot, the DevCareer Tech Programme will equip 1,700 individuals, including 680 women, across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones with technical skills in software development, product design, and product management,“ Akintola-Bello said.

Shedding light on several UK initiatives aimed at propelling Nigeria’s tech sector forward at the workshop, the UK Government’s Digital Access Country Lead and Programme Adviser, Idongesit Udoh outlined the program’s three pillars: last-mile connectivity, empowering women and girls in tech, and promoting the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in public infrastructure.

Udoh stressed that a key program is the Digital Access Programme (DAP), which focuses on expanding internet access and closing the digital divide.

Stressing, collaboration is a key theme across UK initiatives. Chisom Udemezue of the West Africa Research and Innovation Hub highlighted their efforts to bridge the gap between innovators, academia, and industry. The British Council, represented by Edemekong Udoh, also emphasized their role in empowering creative entrepreneurs and fostering innovation within African universities. This multifaceted approach not only injects fresh ideas into the tech ecosystem but also ensures a steady stream of skilled graduates ready to contribute to Nigeria’s digital future.

The workshop concluded with a presentation by Morayo Adekunle, Country Director for the Department for Business and Trade (DBT). Adekunle emphasized the UK’s commercial focus, aiming to facilitate partnerships and ease of doing business between Nigerian and UK tech companies. She highlighted the UK’s position as a global tech leader and its commitment to fostering mutually beneficial trade partnerships.

The success of this partnership hinges on open communication, addressing concerns about regional focus, and ensuring a two-way flow of knowledge and expertise. As Nigeria continues its ascent in the tech world, the UK’s commitment will be closely watched, with the potential to unlock a new era of digital innovation for the West African nation.