Jonathan urges stronger support for indigenous tech firms

Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Saturday urged the Federal Government and private sector to increase investment in technology-driven start-ups, saying they could create jobs, stimulate economic growth and strengthen Nigeria’s position in the global technology industry.

Jonathan made the call when he received a delegation of the board and management of Zeetin Technologies, led by Azibaola Robert, on a courtesy visit.

In a Facebook post after the meeting, the former president said he had followed the company’s growth with keen interest and believed it had the potential to become a leading Nigerian success story in technology and innovation.

Jonathan had earlier chaired the launch and commissioning of the company’s factory in Idu, Abuja.

He said sustained investment and support for technology initiatives would accelerate the country’s technological development.

“With sustained investment and support for initiatives such as this, I am confident that Nigeria will soon make significant strides in technological advancement,” he said.

The former president stressed the need for deliberate policies and investment to support technology entrepreneurs, particularly young Nigerians, noting that start-ups could drive employment and economic development.

We must be more intentional about supporting technology-driven start-ups. Doing so will create employment opportunities for our young people, stimulate economic growth and position Nigeria as a force to reckon with in the global technology landscape,” he said.

Jonathan also congratulated Zeetin Technologies on its assembly plant, which produces tricycles used for transporting goods.

He said the locally assembled vehicles would facilitate the movement of goods, support small businesses and contribute to economic growth.

“Once again, I congratulate Zeetin Technologies on its assembly plant, which is producing tricycles that facilitate the movement of goods across the country, support small businesses, and contribute to our economy. I wish the company continued growth and greater success,” he said.

Nigeria has been seeking to strengthen local manufacturing and assembly capacity as part of efforts to diversify the economy, create jobs and reduce dependence on imported products.

The assembly of locally produced electric tricycles could also support cleaner transportation and provide additional options for small businesses.