Obafemi Banigbe, Chief Executive Officer of 9mobile, was a keynote speaker at the 2024 BNI National Business Conference with the theme “Beyond Borders: Exploring Global Opportunities.”
In attendance were distinguished speakers and business leaders such as Nigeria’s ex-President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo (Special Guest of Honour), Dr. Adebola Olubanjo FCA, and Chief Kola Akosike of Oduacimma, among others.
The 2024 BNI National Business Conference discussed ways of harnessing emerging opportunities for growth and building bridges for a greater economy.
In his remarks, which revoled around three points, Banigbe shared personal insights and perspectives to more than 2,000 participants, including industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals.
The 9mobile CEO said first, the authorities and stakeholders must recognize the fact that “Technology, Agriculture, Manufacturing, and Creative Sectors” have a critical role to play in driving Nigeria’s non-oil export growth.
“I cannot overemphasise the importance of diversifying Nigeria’s economy through these key sectors,” he stressed. “The impact of the Naira’s depreciation is a stark reminder of the need for diversification.
“The Naira has lost significant value compared to its worth just a few years ago, affecting everyone. Diversification is no longer just a strategic option; it is essential for creating jobs, generating foreign exchange, and strengthening our economy’s resilience.”
Second, Banigbe reiterated that 9mobile is “Positioned as a Catalyst for Nigeria’s Creative and Innovative Economy”, and urged the public and private sectors to capitalize on the creative and innovative economy.
He said with a dynamic young population and an increasing demand for digital solutions, Nigeria’s tech ecosystem has immense potential to drive non-oil growth and become the nation’s biggest export.
The tech ecosystem is very vibrant with over 500 active and viable startups, and a rapidly growing tech industry. Lagos, Abuja, Ibadan, Kano, and Aba are key startup cities, with Lagos being the most valuable startup ecosystem in Africa, valued at $2 billion.
Obafemi Banigbe further emphasized that 9mobile remains “firmly committed to exploring these opportunities, positioning ourselves as a catalyst for Nigeria’s creative and innovative economy.”
In his third point, the CEO said: “Tech is the Drive: the plethora of untapped opportunities is waiting to be harnessed. Fintechs sre revolutionizing payment systems locally and globally, with companies like Flutterwave, Paystack, and PiggyVest leading the charge.
“E-commerce fuel SMEs growth. Platforms like Jumia, Konga, and Opay are creating new avenues for entrepreneurship and education technology. This is transforming learning experiences, especially since COVID-19, with innovative solutions from companies like uLesson, Roducate, and Tuteria.”
