Obafemi Banigbe, Chief Executive Officer of 9mobile, was a key note speaker at the 2024 BNI National Business Conference, and was joined by a host of distinguished speakers, and business leaders such as Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, as the Special Guest of Honour, alongside other notable figures including Dr. Adebola Olubanjo FCA, and Chief Kola Akosike of Oduacimma to discuss ways of harnessing emerging opportunities for growth and “building” bridges for a greater economy with the theme “Beyond Borders: Exploring Global Opportunities.
He shared his insights and perspectives during the conference to over 2,000 participants, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
TECHNOLOGY, AGRICULTURE, MANUFACTURING, AND CREATIVE SECTORS have a critical role to play in driving Nigeria’s non-oil export growth. He said “I cannot overemphasis the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy through these key sectors. The impact of the Naira’s depreciation is a stark reminder of the need for diversification. The Naira has lost significant value compared to its worth just a few years ago, affecting everyone. Diversification is no longer just a strategic option; it is essential for creating jobs, generating foreign exchange, and strengthening our economy’s resilience,” Banigbe said.
9MOBILE IS POSITIONED AS A CATALYST FOR NIGERIA’S CREATIVE AND INNOVATIVE ECONOMY: Nigeria must harness its creative and innovative economy: Banigbe explained with a dynamic young population and an increasing demand for digital solutions, Nigeria’s tech ecosystem has immense potential to drive non-oil growth and become the nation’s biggest export. The country’s tech ecosystem is very vibrant with more than 500 active and viable startups, and a rapidly growing tech industry. Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Kano, and Aba are key startup cities, with Lagos being the most valuable startup ecosystem in Africa, valued at $2 billion. He said “We at 9mobile are committed to exploring these opportunities, positioning ourselves as a catalyst for Nigeria’s creative and innovative economy,”.
TECH IS THE DRIVER: the plethora of untapped opportunities is an opportunity waiting to be harnessed such as Fintech which is revolutionizing payment systems locally and globally, with companies like Flutterwave, Paystack, and PiggyVest leading the charge; E-commerce currently fueling the growth of SMEs, with platforms like Jumia, Konga, and Opay creating new avenues for entrepreneurship and Education Technology which is transforming learning experiences, especially since COVID-19, with innovative solutions from companies like uLesson, Roducate, and Tuteria.
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