Fireside Chat

On December 19th, 2024, ConnectED Diaspora hosted its first-ever Fireside Chat at the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture & History, in partnership with the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) Homestrings Program, under the leadership of Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa & Aisha Dankano. The event, themed Empowering Nigerian Youth Through Innovation & Impact, brought together thought leaders, innovators, and changemakers to explore how technology is shaping different sectors in Nigeria and the role young people and the diaspora must play in driving progress.

The event was graced by distinguished guests, including Deputy Governor of Lagos State Femi Hamzat; Tunde Onakoya; Charles Odii; Joyce Omatseye; Omotola Jalade Ekeinde; Jermaine Sanwo-Olu; Yemi Edun; Lanre Vigo Genevieve Wakeley-Jones; and David Emenyi. The discussion reinforced the importance of leveraging technology as a driver of progress, emphasising self-reliance, innovation, and the need to take ownership and create meaningful impact.

A major highlight of the event was our partnership with Start Innovation Hub Nigeria, a leading tech incubator that has trained over 3,000 young Nigerians in software development and entrepreneurship, helping them build careers and businesses in the digital economy. Proceeds from the event will support Start Innovation Hub’s work in expanding access to tech education and resources, reinforcing our mission to drive real, lasting change. This event was also made possible through the generous support of our sponsors, First Bank of Nigeria Ltd. and ChipMango, whose commitment to youth empowerment and technology-driven solutions played a vital role in making it a success.

This is just the beginning. The conversations, ideas, and energy from this event have set the foundation for even bigger things ahead. At ConnectED Diaspora, we are committed to ensuring that young Nigerians—both at home and abroad—have the tools, networks, and knowledge to drive meaningful change. Stay connected, stay engaged, and keep an eye out for our next event. The movement continues.