Kalu Wants Young Africans To Leverage Technology For Economic Advancement

Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Benjamin Kalu, says investing in human capital can drive economic growth through innovation and technological advancement.

Kalu made the remarks while delivering the keynote address at the annual SMFest, a global conference focused on leveraging technology and innovation to grow businesses.

He emphasized that a skilled and educated workforce boosts productivity and problem-solving capacity.

Commending the convener, Ajah Excel, and the SMFest team, Kalu said the conference has empowered thousands of young Nigerians to transform ideas into actionable solutions in the digital age.

He described the theme, “Africa Unlocked: Leading the Digital Revolution,” as timely, noting that the continent’s future depends on people turning challenges into opportunities.

Citing a report from Daba Finance, Kalu highlighted that Nigeria still raised US$331.6 million, reflecting the country’s creativity and leadership in innovation.

He called for investments not just in connectivity but in creativity and capacity-building.

Kalu assured that his office would support future editions of the conference.

He urged young Africans to leverage technology purposefully, saying, “Tools alone don’t transform nations, people do. The same determination that built roads and schools must now drive you to build startups and solutions that will redefine Africa’s future.”

He added that Africa’s internet economy could contribute up to $180 billion to the continent’s GDP by 2025, citing research by the International Finance Corporation and Google, with mobile broadband networks now reaching nearly 86% of the population.

Kalu urge inclusivity in innovation, stressing that the digital revolution should benefit young people across Nigeria, from cities to rural areas.

PR Oduyemi Odumade