Tech Horizon: Unlocking Opportunities in a Digital-First World

On January 24, 2026, history was made in Ijebu-Ode as Tech Horizon convened over 1,000 young people, industry leaders, educators, innovators, and policymakers for the first and largest technology event ever hosted in the city.

Organised by Tech Talent Academy, Tech Horizon was designed to spark conversations, share insights, and unlock real opportunities in a rapidly evolving digital-first world.

A Powerful Gathering of Minds

The event brought together participants from diverse backgrounds—students, tech professionals, founders, government representatives, and educators—all united by one goal: building a digitally empowered future for Nigeria. Notably, over 30 secondary schools attended with their students, reinforcing Tech Horizon’s strong focus on early talent development.

Panel Session 1: Forging Nigeria’s Digital Future

Theme: Policy, Innovation, and Economic Growth
Moderator: Dewunmi

Panelists: Prof. Niran Adetoto, Prof. Adefunke Ekine, Mrs. Adeola Azeez, Dr. Ishola Adebayo

This session explored the intersection of technology education, policy, and economic growth. The panelists shared deep insights on how strategic investment in tech education can transform lives, create jobs, and prepare the next generation for global competitiveness. The discussion emphasized collaboration between government, academia, and the private sector as a key driver of sustainable growth.

Keynote Address: Shaping the Future Through Education

The keynote speech was delivered by Prof. Abayomi Arigbabu, who highlighted the critical role of education and digital skills in shaping Nigeria’s future workforce. His address challenged stakeholders to rethink how young people are prepared for a world driven by innovation, data, and technology.

Gateway Program Announcement – CcHUB

A major highlight of the event was the Gateway Program announcement by CcHUB, presented by Timothy.

Through this initiative, over 500 young people will be empowered with digital skills and access to gig-work opportunities, creating new pathways to employment and entrepreneurship. The announcement was met with excitement and optimism, signaling real, actionable outcomes from Tech Horizon.

Scholarship Support for Future Tech Leaders

In a remarkable show of support for youth development, Adenrele Lekan-Salami awarded scholarships to 20 students, enabling them to learn tech skills of their choice. This gesture underscored the event’s commitment to inclusion and talent empowerment.

Panel Session 2: Opportunities in a Digital-First World

Moderator: Princewill

Panelists: Jude Adejuwon, Timothy Aluko, Abiodun Bada, Dr. Oluwakemi Olurinola

This session focused on identifying and leveraging opportunities in a digital-first economy. Speakers discussed remote work, digital entrepreneurship, innovation ecosystems, and the global tech market, encouraging young people to think beyond traditional career paths.

Panel Session 3: Managing Growth in a Tech Career Path

Moderator: Adeola

Panelists: Salako Teslim, Richard Badejo, Feranmi Olasunkanmi, Queensly Ademola, Opeoluwa Jimoh

Panelists shared practical insights on career growth, skill progression, leadership, and navigating challenges in tech careers. The session resonated strongly with young professionals seeking clarity and direction in their tech journeys.

Startup Showcases and Innovation

Several startups took the stage to present innovative solutions:

Motoka – A platform for managing vehicles and documents, simplifying renewals, and connecting users with trusted services.
Sendeva – Food delivery and logistics services.
Luceo – An AI-powered learning platform using spaced repetition to help learners retain more and teachers teach better.
Bizza – A digital currency platform for blockchain-based payment transactions.
Autocredit – Payment automation for businesses and individuals.

These presentations highlighted the creativity and problem-solving power of Nigeria’s emerging tech ecosystem.

Idea Pitch Contest: Women Leading Innovation

The Idea Pitch Contest showcased several exciting ideas, with a standout outcome:
👉 All winning ideas were female-led products, reinforcing the growing impact of women in technology and innovation.

Engagement, Learning, and Fun

Beyond talks and panels, participants enjoyed:

Certificate presentations to TTA Graduates
A trivia game session that was highly engaging, educative, and exciting

These moments fostered connection, learning, and community bonding throughout the event.

Gratitude and Looking Ahead

We extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, partners, speakers, panelists, moderators, schools, students, the Ijebu-Ode tech community, EdTech CEOs (including TASUED), and every attendee who made Tech Horizon a success.

Tech Horizon was more than an event—it was a movement, a clear signal that Ijebu-Ode is ready to be part of Nigeria’s digital future.