Goodwill Message Delivered by Mrs Ibukun Odusote, the Chairperson, Board of Trustees, Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA), at the Maiden Edition of Tech Convergence on Thursday, Nov 28, 2024 in Lagos.
Theme: Innovating Nigeria’s Digital Future Through Technology and Creativity
Distinguished Guests, Industry Leaders, Innovators, Participants and Gentlemen of the Press
It is my pleasure and honor to bring this goodwill message on behalf of the Trustees of the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) at this historic maiden edition of Tech Convergence. As active players in Nigeria’s digital space, we are proud to support initiatives like this that foster innovation, collaboration and progress within the tech ecosystem. When in the early 90’s some of us were beating the drums of emphasis on technology as a solution to many issues of life, the beats were strange to many ears. But we are glad that it didn’t take a long time that the stories across the globe started to change completely.
The theme of this event, “Innovating Nigeria’s Digital Future Through Tech and Creativity,” resonates deeply with our collective mission. It reflects the critical role technology plays in driving economic growth and the transformative power of creativity in building sustainable solutions tailored to Nigeria’s unique challenges and opportunities.
Allow me to highlight the importance of collaboration, particularly within the Domain Name System (DNS) industry, as a model for promoting Nigeria’s digital economy. The DNS industry is a global network powered by interconnectedness. Its success lies in the seamless collaboration of registries, registrars, governments and end-users each playing a vital role.
In Nigeria, the .ng Registry has demonstrated how collaborative efforts can harness technology to promote digital inclusion and economic growth. By working together with local businesses, government agencies and international partners, we have expanded access to the .ng domain, provided capacity-building programs and fostered innovation across multiple sectors.
This collaborative approach has not only boosted online presence for Nigerian businesses but has also established a credible digital identity for the nation, enabling local companies to compete on a global stage.
Looking ahead, technology and creativity must continue to serve as the twin engines of Nigeria’s digital transformation. Creativity, fueled by cultural uniqueness and entrepreneurial spirit, can drive tech solutions that address our country’s most pressing needs. Imagine a future where:
- Local artisans can showcase their craft globally through innovative e-commerce platforms powered by .ng domains.
- Youth across the country can gain access to quality education through cutting-edge tech solutions.
- Creative industries leverage tech to tell authentic Nigerian stories, enriching global digital content in secured environment.
These are not distant dreams—they are achievable realities when collaboration and innovation intersect.
To all stakeholders gathered here today whether from the private sector, academia or government this is our moment to act boldly. Let us forge partnerships, embrace innovative thinking and invest in the highly talent zzXCVB N.// that will define Nigeria’s digital future.
The Trustees of NiRA reaffirm our commitment to nurturing a thriving digital ecosystem in Nigeria. We believe that through platforms like Tech Convergence, we can inspire groundbreaking solutions and empower the next generation of tech leaders and creative thinkers.
Once again, congratulations to the local organizing committee of this maiden edition of Tech Convergence. May the insights, collaborations and innovations born here today light the way for a brighter, digitally empowered Nigeria.
Thank you for listening.
Mrs. Ibukun Odusote
November 28, 2024
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