Technology key to national productivity, speakers tell JCI convention

By Abubakar Yunusa

Speakers at the JCI Aso 2025 Convention have called on the Federal Government, private sector, and young Nigerians to embrace technology as a central tool for national productivity and sustainable development.

The event, held on Friday in Abuja to mark the organisation’s 25th anniversary, featured industry leaders, policymakers and youth development advocates who emphasised intergenerational collaboration in driving innovation.

The Group Managing Director of the Abuja Investment Company Limited, Ambassador Maureen Tamuno, said Nigeria’s growth prospects were closely tied to its ability to expand digital access—particularly in rural communities.

She noted that unreliable power supply remained a major hurdle, but the increasing adoption of renewable energy was beginning to transform remote areas.

“Solar energy is already reaching villages and remote locations. With improved connectivity, we will see better advancement and productivity across sectors,” she said.

Tamuno urged government agencies to design policy frameworks that integrate both young and older professionals, stressing that innovation thrives when energy and experience converge.

“Every team should include younger people, but they must also learn from the older ones. Mentorship is key. The wisdom of the old helps the young grow faster,” she said.

Founding father of JCI Aso, Senator GWO SHOAGA , described technology as a driving force in global development, urging Nigerian youths to embrace digital tools responsibly.

He warned that misuse of technology, particularly cybercrime, undermines its purpose and diverts young people from legitimate opportunities.

“For countries to remain relevant, they must participate in this technology revolution. The instrument of that revolution is the youth,” he said.

SHOAGA added that intergenerational exchange of knowledge remained vital, saying older adults also benefit from engaging with younger, tech-savvy Nigerians.

A former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Gawon also stressed that technology has become the world’s most powerful pathway to wealth creation.

He urged youths to focus on innovation rather than cybercrime, noting that major global technology founders were young people who used creativity—not fraud—to build wealth.

“The money made from fraud is nothing compared to what innovation can bring. Nigerians can become richer than Elon Musk if they channel their skills correctly,” he said.

The don encouraged young people to treat digital devices as tools for creation.

“Don’t just hold your phones; think about what you can create with them,” he added.

He also expressed gratitude for the award he received at the event, saying he felt honoured to be recognised for his contributions to youth development.

The convention, themed Echoes of Voices, Legacy of Tomorrow, highlighted the need for synergy between innovation, mentorship and policy reforms to drive Nigeria’s technological advancement.