In a recent webinar with the theme “Nigeria Tech Space: From Independence to Digital Age,” organized by Techeconomy, Hillary Utuke, the CEO of Korlod Works, a top digital marketing firm based in Lagos, shared valuable insights into the evolution of Nigeria’s technology landscape.
Mr. Utuke, an author of four books including “Digital Strategies for Online Brand Visibility,” addressed the historical challenges that hindered progress while highlighting the immense potential within the Nigerian tech space.
He believes that by fostering creativity and innovation, Nigeria can overcome these obstacles and unlock new opportunities for growth and development in the digital age.
Mr. Utuke shared his experience and knowledge with the audience and expertly navigated the series of questions that were thrown at him.
He kicked off the webinar by giving a brief but detailed rundown of the evolution of technology from the 1960s till the present.
Evolution of Technology
Mr. Hilary Utuke explained that from 1960 to 1979, the government focused on industrialization and infrastructural development.
There was a heavy reliance on basic telecommunication systems (radio, telegraphs), which unfortunately were not available to everyone due to expenses.
‘’The tech space became better in 1980 because the government started implementing policies related to ICT, which brought about the formation of the National Telecommunication Commission (NTC).
‘’Investments in computer education, information systems, and education started coming up. While these developments were great, they got better in the 1990s specifically in 1996 when there was a major liberalization and Internet revolution,
‘’NCC began to license Internet Service Providers (ISPs) which allowed everyone to have access to the Internet. The Nigeria internet group, a supporting body that was helping to drive internet in Nigeria was also formed in 1995 and is still in existence.
‘’There was a significant shift in 2001 when the General System for Mobile Communications (GSM) was invented. Even through these developments, there has been a limitation in the creativity of Nigerians because of their mindsets. Mr. Hillary makes an analogy to buttress his point,
“A first world native will see the internet as an ocean because it is unending, it is unlimited so they can swim in it, fish in it, and do whatsoever they want to do in that ocean.
‘’But the third-world native sees the internet as water in a mug so we are careful about how we use it so we don’t exhaust it, that is why we hear things like 200mb, 2mb, 1gb, and all of that so we can be careful in our usage. This limitation has restricted our creativity and our experience.”
‘’There have been major notable developments in the tech space from 1960 to this time, the country has seen widespread internet access, the growth of fintech, mobile penetration, AI and data analytics, and the evolvement of blockchain and cryptocurrency. While the tech space has evolved significantly there is still a need to leverage these technologies to create a better environment.
16.2% Contribution to GDP
Mr. Hilary Utuke also establishes that the tech space has contributed significantly to the GDP of Nigeria which is evident according to the statistics of 2022, where it is noted that the tech space contributed 16.2% to the GDP.
‘’The major drivers of these contributions are telecoms, fintech, e-commerce, and digital services. Taking the fintech space, for example, a lot of work is been done, making it easier for transactions and global mobility.
‘’I believe that there will be added growth if companies move from consumption and production to creation. If you encounter a problem, focus on creating the solution to the problem, from then on other people who have also encountered the same problem will reach out to you for the solution that will help to build your market.’’
On Creating Opportunities
While it is a known fact that many people run away from creating programs and solutions because the government tends to impose on people, Hilary Utuke advises, ‘’ People should make use of the technique of indie hacking which involves creating solutions with limited reliance on the government.
‘’That way you can keep building solutions until you gain the attention of investors who will then invest in your project when they see what you are doing is worthwhile. When you expand, the government will have no choice but to succumb.’’
Similarly, Utuke advises that Nigerians should make use of their creativity to create opportunities for themselves.
‘’People should not be limited to their local environs but they should spread out, look for problems, and think of solutions, leveraging more on artificial intelligence and digital marketing.
Looking at Nigeria today, it is clear that the benefits of technology are not equally accessible to all Nigerians. He suggests that to bridge this gap, there should be a focus on promoting digital literacy, implementing inclusive tech policies, and expanding digital infrastructure to improve access to affordable and high-speed internet.
On Mental Health Leave
Utuke concluded his presentation by advocating for the implementation of mental health leave policies in tech companies.
He emphasized the need for employees to have the opportunity to take leaves to rest and recharge, particularly due to the rigorous nature of creating and developing tech solutions, combined with personal challenges.
Utuke’s insights and ideas on the tech industry were well-received by the audience, and his perspective is expected to inspire Nigerian citizens to become more engaged in the tech sector.
