By Bunmi Yekini
In what can be described as the largest gathering of young creative minds in the Tech world so far in 2024, Meta recently brought together over 200 young professionals, students, recent graduates, creatives, and aspiring entrepreneurs to its inaugural Youth Summit in Lagos. The summit Themed ‘Empowering Youth Through Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship,’ featured insightful panel discussions, mentoring sessions, and interactive workshops, aimed at equipping Nigerian youth with the skills and networks needed to excel in the evolving digital economy.
Phil Oduor, Meta’s Head of Policy Programs for Sub-Saharan Africa, highlighted the significance of the summit, “At Meta, we believe that today’s youth are tomorrow’s change-makers. Through initiatives like the Youth Summit, we aim to foster innovation, promote digital literacy, and empower young Nigerians with the tools and opportunities to realise their potential and contribute to Nigeria’s growing digital economy.”
Delivering the keynote address, Femi Aluko, CEO and Co-Founder of Chowdeck, shared his inspiring journey in tech, encouraging attendees to embrace the limitless opportunities within today’s technology ecosystem, “The tech world is full of possibilities, and your willingness to learn and adapt can open doors to extraordinary achievements”.
Chinny Francis, Public Policy Manager at Meta, moderated a panel discussion featuring Nifemi Akinwamide, Head of Operations at Alt School; Adaora Mbelu, Co-Founder of Lumination Global; and Obaloluwa Adeagbo, Marketing Lead at Talstack. The panellists underscored the importance of self-awareness, storytelling, lifelong learning, and problem-solving to succeed in a digitally transformed world.
Francis Sani, Technical Adviser for Innovation at the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation & Digital Economy, also addressed the audience. He highlighted the 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) program, which aims to build a robust technical workforce for Nigeria’s digital economy.
“This initiative positions Nigeria as a global talent hub. I encourage every young person here to seize this opportunity,” he said.
The ‘Lunch and Learn: Navigating Entrepreneurship in a Rapidly Changing Landscape’ session brought together industry leaders Seye Bandele, CEO of PaidHR, and Damilola Teidi-Ayoola, Head of Platform and Networks at Ventures Platform Fund. Moderated by Sade Dada, Head of Public Policy for Anglophone West Africa at Meta, the session focused on the resilience and strategic thinking needed to thrive as an entrepreneur.
“Grit, curiosity, and candour are non-negotiable traits for navigating entrepreneurship,” said Bandele.
Teidi-Ayoola added, “Understanding your audience and leveraging data to deliver value are key to building sustainable businesses.”
The summit also celebrated the creative industry’s potential to transform Nigeria’s economy. Miss Techy, an award-winning tech content creator, and Salem King, a storyteller and author, inspired participants by sharing their experiences and strategies for long-term success. King encouraged attendees to stay authentic. “Your story is your superpower. Own it and use it to make a meaningful impact.” He said.
Through initiatives in digital literacy, economic impact, and job training, Meta is fostering innovation and equipping young Nigerians to lead in a tech-driven world. Attendees left the event inspired and equipped with actionable strategies to navigate their entrepreneurial and professional journeys.