Governor Babajide Sanwo Olu of Lagos State has called on the management and students of Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) to focus on developing homegrown technological solutions that can address Nigeria's socio economic challenges and propel national development. In his remarks, the governor emphasized the importance of leveraging local expertise and innovation to create sustainable solutions that can drive growth, create jobs, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global tech space.
Speaking at a recent event at the institution, Governor Sanwo Olu highlighted that technology is a key enabler of development, and Nigeria’s future depends on the ability to harness its local talent and resources. He stressed the need for Nigerian institutions like YABATECH to nurture a culture of innovation that will result in technological breakthroughs aimed at solving local problems, rather than relying solely on imported solutions.
He noted that Lagos, as the commercial capital of Nigeria, was fully committed to supporting technological advancements and creating an environment conducive to innovation. This includes fostering partnerships between academic institutions, government, and the private sector to ensure that technology development is in line with the country's developmental needs.
Governor Sanwo Olu also encouraged students and staff of YABATECH to take an active role in addressing the nation’s challenges. By developing practical and scalable technological solutions, he believes that institutions like YABATECH have a critical role to play in shaping Nigeria's future, contributing to both local and global advancements in fields like information technology, engineering, and industrial innovation.
This call for homegrown technology comes at a time when there is a growing demand for Nigeria to enhance its technological capabilities, reduce dependence on foreign imports, and create jobs in the tech sector. Governor Sanwo Olu’s remarks were a timely reminder of the role that educational institutions can play in shaping the future of the country, driving development, and empowering a new generation of innovators and problem solvers.
As YABATECH continues to evolve and expand its technological capabilities, it is hoped that initiatives like these will inspire the next wave of Nigerian inventors, engineers, and technologists who will contribute to the country’s growth and global competitiveness.