AI Innovation Seen as Key to Job Creation and Economic Growth
Experts in the technology sector have emphasized that opportunities in the tech industry remain one of the most effective ways to create jobs and reduce unemployment, urging Nigerian youths to take full advantage of emerging digital tools and innovations.
The call was made at The Roundtable Lekki 2026, organised by the Church of God Mission International (CGMi), Garden City, Lekki, Lagos, where industry leaders, IT experts, and stakeholders gathered to discuss the future of technology in Nigeria.
The event had the theme: “Winning Through Innovation: The Tech Advantage.”
Tech Innovation as a Driver of Economic Development
Speaking at the event, the Founder of Interswitch, Mitchell Elegbe, highlighted the importance of building technology-driven solutions in Nigeria and across Africa.
He explained that innovation is essential for business survival and long-term growth, especially in developing economies.
According to him, businesses must adopt strong strategies, innovation, and quality service delivery to remain competitive in today’s fast-changing environment.
AI: Opportunities and Job Disruption Concerns
On the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI), Elegbe noted that while the technology boosts productivity, it also comes with challenges.
He explained that AI could reshape the workplace and potentially displace certain jobs, stressing the need for adaptation.
“Like every new technology, it has its good and bad sides. AI is known to boost productivity, but it could potentially change the way we work, meaning some people could lose their jobs,” he said.
Why Learning Technology is Essential for the Future
Also speaking at the event, founding partner at Future Africa, Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, encouraged Nigerians to embrace technology rather than fear it.
He compared AI adoption to the early days of computers, explaining that those who fail to adapt risk being left behind.
“If you adopt technology, it tends to make you more productive… AI is not coming for your job, but if you don’t learn it, then the people who learn how to use AI will come for your job,” he said.
Vision Behind The Roundtable Lekki Initiative
The Convener of the event, Chris Ubamadu, said the initiative was designed to help solve societal challenges such as unemployment and poverty through innovation.
He explained that the goal is to empower individuals to increase their earning capacity and build sustainable careers through technology.
Tech as a Tool for Youth Empowerment
The Host and Zonal Coordinator of CGMi Victoria Island Zone, Osas Obaisiagbon, stressed the importance of technology in helping young Nigerians become self-reliant.
He noted that technology provides opportunities for entrepreneurship and independence, reducing reliance on government jobs.
AI and the Future of Wealth Creation
Chairman of the Organising Committee, Omoregie Samuel, said the world is undergoing rapid technological transformation, making tech more accessible than ever before.
He expressed optimism that AI will create new wealth opportunities, similar to how the internet produced a new generation of millionaires.
He also encouraged young Nigerians not to be discouraged by competition in the tech space, noting that innovation still has room for growth and new ideas.
Support for Young Innovators
A major highlight of the event was a pitch session featuring young entrepreneurs.
At the end of the presentations, five innovators received funding support to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and practical problem-solving.
Conclusion: Tech as the Future of Work in Nigeria
Stakeholders at the Roundtable Lekki 2026 unanimously agreed that technology and AI represent the future of work, urging Nigerian youths to acquire digital skills and embrace innovation as a pathway to economic empowerment.