In a transformational shift toward digital integration, the historically rich city of Ogbomoso in Oyo State, Nigeria, positioned itself on the global stage with the Ogbomoso Digital Economy Summit (ODES).
On November 1st and 2nd, 2023, the Great Hall at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology (LAUTECH) brimmed with the spirit of innovation, hosting the city’s most critical gathering of economic stakeholders to date.
This second edition of ODES, themed “Building a Sustainable Economy through Digital Transformation,” drew over 1500 participants from around the globe, including industry leaders, budding entrepreneurs, distinguished academics, and the next generation of digital enthusiasts.
The event commenced with an inspiring message from Chief Mrs. Rebecca Ogundare, representing the esteemed Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye (Orumogege III). She conveyed the monarch’s forward-looking vision of an Ogbomoso abundant in growth and burgeoning with opportunities. The Summit was lauded as a catalyst for the much-anticipated advancement of the city.
Prof. Razaq Olatunde Rom Kalilu, the Acting Vice-Chancellor of LAUTECH, represented by Prof. Tunde Ogunkunle, highlighted the important role of the digital economy in transforming industries, revolutionizing healthcare, and driving economic growth through passion and creativity.
Seun Onigbinde, the Global Director of BudgIT and an Ogbomoso native, during his keynote address from the United States, emphasized the necessity of solid public policies, robust infrastructure, sufficient capital for bold ideas, and networking platforms like the ODES to push the envelope of digital inclusivity.
The Summit featured an impressive lineup of speakers including Tim Handorf, Remi Odunsi, Emeka Okoye, Amanda Hufford, Charmaine Sadie, and Olorunfemi Omotayo, among others. Notables such as Gabriel Okeowo, Arturo Machado, Yemisi Isidi, Anu Agboola, Ayoola Ojo, Bisi Oni, Prof. Julius Kola Oloke, Prof. Lateef Agbaje, Tommy Michael and Uche Aniche were also present.
The event began with a series of concise lightning talks, panel discussions, and keynote addresses that set the tone for the Summit. The second day continued with interactive workshops on various technological and entrepreneurial topics at SQI College of ICT in Ogbomoso, followed by the grand finale at noon. A highlight was a competitive session where startups had four minutes to pitch their innovations to the audience.
Throughout the summit, the involvement of participants was pronounced; they were deeply invested in every facet of the program from panel discussions to workshops, and from pitches to exhibitions. The interactions and networking fostered a robust exchange of ideas, further amplifying the excitement. The collective opinions resonated with the potential for a transformative digital economy, signaling a new era of economic rejuvenation for Ogbomoso.
The ODES was a collaborative endeavor brought together by Jesudamilare Adesegun-David of Ennovate Lab, Dr. Adeyemi Aderinto of SQI College of ICT, Pastor Tayo Sobowale of The Pitch Community, Rev’d Peter Bright of DIMEC Global, and Dr. Kolawole Oladipo of Helix Biogen Institute, reflecting a collective vision for Ogbomoso’s digital future.
As the Summit wrapped up, the atmosphere was imbued with hope and anticipation for an invigorating digital era, leaving an indelible mark on all participants. It was more than just a gathering; it marked the commencement of a transformative journey towards fostering an inclusive and flourishing digital economy in Ogbomoso.
