On Sept 2, 2016, Intel collaborated with the Nigerian government on its Aso Villa Demo Day initiative which held in Abuja on Friday, 2nd September to further reinforce its campaign on PC adoption, Abuja, Nigeria.
This event was organized by the Federal government with the aim of fostering innovation and technology, to bring revolutionary change to Nigeria, showcased creativity and innovation from several Nigerian tech start-ups.
Speaking on Intel’s role in the event, MrOlubunmiEkundare Country Manager, Intel Nigeria, said that technology and computers have created a level playing field for creation of wealth.
“Inarguably, there are endless opportunities to be gained through the use of a computer, and we want Nigerians to know that. We believe that indeed- with a computer, you are powerful, supporting the government on this initiative thereforeis in sync with Intel’s continued commitment to the socio-economic development of the average Nigerian”
The event which produced three finalists, Shuttlers NG, Recycle Point and Tracology featured speeches from top dignitaries and experts in Nigeria.
Also speaking at the event, the Vice President, Professor YemiOsinbajo, revealed the government instituted the initiative because it believes that technology, innovation and knowledge can bring about unprecedented change in Nigeria.
“Computer plays a big role in our everyday lives, and even our extraordinary moments. Computer has become so powerful that youths today cannot say they want to be part of the government; they are already part of it and playing key roles and we see evidence of this in the various innovations of the start-ups here today”.
The Vice President’s speech reaffirms Intel’s recently launched “With a Computer, You are Powerful” campaign and emphasizes how much growth can be generated through the use of computers. Intel’s with a computer you’re powerful campaign encourages ICT growth, and seeks to ensure that the power of technology is felt across all platforms in Nigeria. The campaign speaks directly to the relevance of having a computer.
The three winning start-ups: Tracology, a patented smart payment system for utility companies founded by Emmanuel Okena; Shuttlers NG, a platform that enables professionals access comfortable convenient affordable mass transit system founded by DamilolaOlokesusi and OluwabusolaMajekodunmi and, Recycle Points, a waste recycling and social benefit venture that creates value from everyday wastes founded by Allison Ukonu all earned a cash prize of three million naira and access to infrastructure to help their innovations grow.
