WELCOME ADDRESS BY THE PRESIDENT OF NIGERIA INTERNET REGISTRATION ASSOCIATION ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2024 TECH CONVERGENCE HOLDING AT THE MUSON CENTRE, LAGOS ON NOVEMBER 28 – 29, 2024.

Distinguished Guests, Industry Leaders, Innovators, Creators, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning and welcome to the inaugural edition of Tech Convergence!

It is an absolute honor to stand before you today as we kick off this monumental event, focused on the theme “Innovating Nigeria’s Digital Future through Tech and Creativity.”

At the Nigeria Internet Registration Association (NiRA) and the .ng registry, we recognize the immense potential that lies at the intersection of technology and creativity. In today’s world, innovation is not solely about technology or art in isolation—it is the dynamic fusion of both that creates transformative experiences, solves complex problems and opens new frontiers for individuals, businesses and societies.

Nigeria is a nation brimming with untapped creative potential and technological talent and it is within this powerful synergy that we see the opportunity to shape our digital future. From artificial intelligence and blockchain to digital art and virtual experiences, technology is now the canvas, and creativity is the brush. Together, we can unlock new possibilities that are not only relevant to our local context but that also position Nigeria as a global leader in digital innovation.

As the .ng registry, we are proud to facilitate and empower the digital transformation of Nigeria. The .ng domain is more than just a digital address; it is a cornerstone of Nigeria’s online identity, offering individuals, businesses and organizations the platform to express their unique digital presence. We believe that a strong, innovative and creative online presence is key to shaping a robust digital economy.

This year’s Tech Convergence serves as a platform for the convergence of technology and art, where thought leaders, creative minds and tech enthusiasts come together to explore how we can bridge the two worlds and innovate for the future. Through this event, we aim to:

1. Highlight the power of creativity in technology and showcase how art can drive innovation in digital spaces.
2. Empower businesses, startups and individuals to leverage the digital tools and platforms that are shaping the future of Nigeria’s economy.
3. Foster Collaboration: Create an ecosystem where technology experts and creators can collaborate, exchange ideas and bring to life solutions that push boundaries.

We have an exciting agenda ahead filled with engaging discussions, captivating exhibitions and inspiring demonstrations. As we engage, learn and connect today, I urge each of us to think boldly and act purposefully. Let this maiden edition of Tech Convergence be a defining moment where ideas are transformed into action and action into a brighter, digitally inclusive future for Nigeria.

To all our speakers, panelists, partners, sponsors, local organizing committee and attendees, thank you for being part of this pioneering journey. Your presence here today reflects your commitment to shaping the future of our digital landscape.

Once again, welcome to Tech Convergence. Together, let us innovate, create and transform Nigeria’s digital future.

Thank you.

Adesola Akinsanya
President, NiRA

About Author

Dr. Adebunmi Adeola Akinbo

Dr. Adebunmi Akinbo is a Researcher, Media Psychologist, Brand and Content Expert. He is an Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) Fellow, Member of Association of Cyber Forensics and Threat Investigators (ACFTI), Associate Member of the Computer Professional Registration Council of Nigeria (CPN), and a Senior Member of Chartered Institute of Public Diplomacy & Management (CIPDM), He is passionate for information and solutions for ICT Challenges by the media for the global village.

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