The Nigeria Computer Society (NCS) successfully presented and launched five innovative products as part of its Technology Innovation and Development Programme (TIDP), recently.
The launch marked the culmination of the TIDP cohorts’ efforts over the past year, mentored by a group of industry experts to transform their ideas into market-ready solutions.
The products unveiled at the event were Cashfog, Thrively, UniXP, Record Digital, and GasCheck.
These solutions were pitched to potential investors, industry stakeholders, the Lagos State Government, and Leo Stan Ekeh, Chairman of Zinox Group and a prominent billionaire businessman who has been bankrolling the TIDP for the past three years.
The TIDP program, initiated by the NCS, aims to foster innovation and development in Nigeria by providing resources and expertise to young individuals with brilliant ideas but limited means to translate them into world-class solutions.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu who was represented by Ibilola Kasunmu, the Permanent Secretary at the Lagos State Ministry of Science and Technology, expressed his admiration for the shared vision between the government and the NCS.
Ibilola reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting the startup community and announced the establishment of the Lagos State Science and Research Innovation Council, which has already granted over $600,000 to startups.
The Lagos State government expressed its eagerness to collaborate with the NCS to further develop the startup community and create an environment conducive to their growth.
The government emphasized its dedication to implementing policies and providing resources to drive innovation and technological advancements in Lagos.
Leo Stan Ekeh, known for his unwavering support for young innovators, assured the budding entrepreneurs that they would receive the necessary backing to keep them going, emphasizing that giving up is not an option.
As part of his commitment, Ekeh pledged to provide Core i7 laptops to all the innovators who pitched their products, totaling over 15 young individuals.
He commended the Governor of Lagos State for leading the way in technology innovation and urged the state to continue engaging with the innovators, possibly incubating their solutions for the time being.
Earnest Ndukwe, former Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), shared his insights with the young entrepreneurs, advising them to be honest with their investors and to remain humble and grounded throughout their journey.
While acknowledging the potential of their ideas, he encouraged further consideration and cautious decision-making to protect investors’ interests and avoid excessive debt.
Professor Adesina S. Sodiya, President of the NCS, lauded the mentors and stakeholders involved in the TIDP program, expressing gratitude for their contributions to its success.
He assured Leo Stan Ekeh that more innovations are on the horizon as the NCS continues to groom the 2023 cohort of innovators.
The NCS’s TIDP event showcased the promising future of Nigerian innovation, with the support of industry leaders, government entities, and a commitment to nurturing young talent
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