In today’s interconnected world, technology plays a pivotal role in shaping economies and societies.

Nigeria, with its vibrant tech scene, has witnessed remarkable growth in recent years. However, to sustain this momentum, we must recognise the importance of home­grown startups and invest in their success.

In recent years, foreign invest­ments, once a cornerstone of our burgeoning tech sector, have seen a noticeable decline.

This change is due to various fac­tors, including global economic un­certainties, fluctuating market condi­tions, and increased competition from other emerging markets.

While this reduction in foreign investment poses challenges, it also presents a unique opportunity for Ni­gerians to take the reins and propel our tech industry forward.

The time is ripe for Nigerians to step up and invest in our local tech startups.

Our nation is brimming with tal­ented innovators and entrepreneurs who have the potential to create groundbreaking solutions tailored to our unique challenges. However, with­out adequate financial backing, many of these ideas remain unrealised.

By investing locally, we can pro­vide the necessary resources for these startups to grow, scale, and ultimately succeed.

Local investment isn’t just about funding; it’s about believing in our own capabilities and fostering an en­vironment where Nigerian ingenui­ty can flourish. It’s about building an ecosystem where startups can thrive, supported by a network of investors, mentors, and industry leaders who un­derstand the nuances of our market. Beyond investment, there is a pressing need for Nigerians to ac­tively consume homegrown tech products.

This shift in consumer behaviour can have a profound impact on the local economy. When we choose Ni­gerian-made products, we are not only supporting the businesses behind them but also contributing to job cre­ation and economic stability Moreover, buying Nigerian fosters a sense of national pride and encour­ages a culture of self-reliance.

It sends a powerful message that we believe in the quality and potential of our own creations. This cultural shift is essential for building a robust and sustainable tech ecosystem.

While the focus on local investment and consumption is crucial, it must be paired with a vision for global com­

itise petitiveness.

Our ultimate goal should be to export Nigerian tech products—both physical and intellectual—to the glob­al market. By doing so, we can earn foreign exchange, enhance our inter­national standing, and demonstrate that Nigerian innovations can com­pete on a global scale.

To achieve this, we need to prior­ com­

itise quality and excellence in our products.

Nigerian tech startups must strive to meet and exceed international stan­dards, ensuring that their offerings are not only competitive but also compel­ling to a global audience. This commit­ment to excellence will help us build a reputation as a hub of innovation and creativity.

Investing in and consuming Nige­rian tech products is not just about economic growth; it’s about building a sustainable and self-reliant future.

By reducing our dependence on imports, we can create a more resil­ient economy that is better equipped to weather global uncertainties. This self-reliance will also enable us to address our own challenges more ef­fectively, leveraging local knowledge and expertise to develop solutions that work for us.

The decline in foreign investment in Nigeria’s tech sector is a call to ac­tion. It’s an opportunity for us to take ownership of our future and build a thriving tech ecosystem that is driv­en by local investment, supported by Nigerian consumers, and competitive on the global stage.

Investing in Nigeria’s tech ecosys­tem isn’t just about financial returns; it’s an investment in our future. Let’s celebrate our homegrown talent, em­power startups, and build a sustain­able, self-reliant economy—one that thrives both locally and on the world stage.