Mallam Nasir el-Rufai plans to bring together a diverse group of technology enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, inventors, investors, and officials from throughout Africa to invest heavily in technology in the northern area.
In a statement, the investors and policymakers would be unveiled at the launch of Arewa Tech Fest 2024, a major technology fiesta, to be held in Kano State from September 25 to 26.
The event, which has the full support of the Kano State government and Governor Abba Yusuf, aims to highlight the most recent advancements in technology and innovation, promote technology, entrepreneurship, and digital solutions, and foster an environment of innovation and collaboration to drive economic development in Northern Nigeria.
Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Emir of Kano; Benedict Oramah, the President of Afreximbank; Sumaila Zubairu, the Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation; and Amal Hassan, the Founder of Outsource Global are among the notable individuals scheduled to speak at the event.
According to El-Rufai, the expo is a historic occasion that showcases Northern Nigeria’s enormous potential in the fields of innovation and technology.
He clarified that the objective is to equip the next generation of IT leaders—especially women and young people—with the necessary tools and resources to thrive in a fast changing digital environment.
He explained the goal is to inspire and empower the next generation of tech leaders, particularly women and youths, providing them with the requisite tools and resources to succeed in a rapidly evolving digital world.
The former governor announced that the event will also see the opening of the Arewa digital Fund, which is intended to give critical funding and resources to emerging Northern digital businesses.
