Youths Urged To Build AI Skills For Future Careers At Port Harcourt Tech Expo

Chief Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), emphasized technology as a critical tool for tackling unemployment at the two-day Port Harcourt Tech Expo 2026. He urged young Nigerians to acquire digital skills to remain competitive in the evolving global economy, noting that intellectual property has become the new wealth creation platform. Stakeholders at the event called for stronger collaboration among government, the private sector, academia, and innovators to accelerate digital transformation. The expo, supported by Renaissance Africa Energy, Pana Holdings, and the Rivers State Internal Revenue Service, brought together policymakers, experts, investors, and entrepreneurs to deliberate on technology's role in governance, education, healthcare, agriculture, energy, finance, and the creative economy. Speakers highlighted the need for Nigeria to move beyond consuming technology to becoming a producer of digital solutions. Dr. Aristotle Onumonu of NITDA stressed that the country's digital future depends on inclusive development and digital literacy. Mrs. Aleruchi Elizabeth Akani identified poor coordination among stakeholders as a major challenge. Panel discussions covered education technology, cybersecurity, agriculture technology, and the creative economy, with participants urging a shift from theoretical teaching to practical digital learning. Speakers also encouraged youths to embrace Artificial Intelligence and strategically position themselves in the job market. The LegalTech session called for increased investment in digital education and compliance with data protection regulations. Igo Weli of Renaissance Africa Energy urged responsible resource development in the Niger Delta. Healthcare experts advocated for integrated national health records and telemedicine, while Zipline Nigeria showcased its drone-powered medical logistics system. Energy technology experts recommended decentralised solar systems and battery-swapping technology. Geo-spatial technology specialist Ross Alabo George encouraged young innovators to build expertise before developing solutions. Victor Itota of Pana Holdings described data as the foundation of Nigeria's future industrial development.

(Source：Arise News)