In a pivotal move aimed at reshaping the economic landscape of Akwa Ibom State, Hanson Johnson, the Founder/CEO of Start Innovation Hub and a prominent figure in the digital ecosystem, has unveiled plans for the Akwa Ibom Tech Week. This initiative marks a significant step towards transitioning the state from its reliance on oil and agriculture to becoming a thriving center for Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
During a recent address, Johnson articulated his vision for the region, stating, “There’s been extensive deliberation within closed circles regarding our shared ambition to transform Africa into a hub for living, working, and creating opportunities, starting right here in Akwa Ibom State 😜. Out of these discussions emerged Akwa Ibom Tech Week and numerous other initiatives, including the Ibom Innovation Network, designed to foster collaboration among innovators.”
Expressing his satisfaction at the public discourse surrounding these initiatives, Johnson emphasized the challenges of doing business in Africa. “Africa has always been transparent about the realities of conducting business on the continent. There are no false promises of an ideal business environment or guaranteed ease of operations,” he remarked.
Citing alarming statistics, Johnson highlighted the economic disparities across Africa, with fewer than 0.3% of the population living above $50 per day, while a staggering 96% subsist on less than $3,650 annually. He underscored the vast potential for market creation in Africa, emphasizing the need to transform nonconsumption into consumption to drive economic growth.
Johnson’s efforts aim to address these challenges by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Akwa Ibom State. The Akwa Ibom Tech Week and the Ibom Innovation Network serve as catalysts for empowering local talents and positioning the state as a hub for technological advancement.
The unveiling of these initiatives signifies a crucial step towards realizing Akwa Ibom’s potential as an ICT hub and underscores Johnson’s commitment to driving socioeconomic development in the region.
Written by
Anthony Emeka Nwosu
Johnson highlighted the economic disparities across Africa, with fewer than 0.3% of the population living above $50 per day, while a staggering 96% subsist on less than $3,650 annually. He underscored the vast potential for market creation in Africa, emphasizing the need to transform nonconsumption into consumption to drive economic growth.
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