NITDA, US Consulate General, others Partner On Global Tech 

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), the United State Consulate General in Lagos, and other partners have launched Global Tech Africa (GTA) are set to explore opportunities in tech ecosystem across Africa.
The Head, Corporate Affairs and External Relations, NITDA, Mrs. Hadiza Umar, said this  in a statement she issued in Abuja recently.
GTA is an initiative of Future Map Foundation, designed and implemented by Ascend Studios Foundation, in partnership with NITDA and the United State Consulate General, Lagos.
Umar disclosed that the GTA Summit  held in Lagos recently with 300 tech stakeholders from the private, public and development sectors.
She said it would be followed by the GTA conference in Lagos between November 17 and 20.
“The conference is designed to bring together African and international stakeholders in Tech, unlock growth opportunities and build the tech ecosystem in Africa.
“GTA will provide a platform for consumers, enthusiasts, and the general public to engage with and learn from technology experts and practitioners”, she stated.
According to her, it will also showcase the latest technology trends in Africa and provide insight into future trends and innovations.
The statement also quoted the Director-General of NITDA, Mr Kashifu Inuwa, as saying that Africa was poised to play a critical role in the global tech ecosystem.
Inuwa said the continent can provide innovation, talent and new market opportunities in areas such as mobile technology, e-commerce, fintech, agro-tech and the digital economy.
“Nigeria’s tech prowess ignites a flame of innovation that illuminates Africa’s path towards a prosperous digital future, fostering job creation and driving economic growth across the continent”, he said.
The United State Consul General, Mr. Will Stevens, stated that the United State has been a key partner to Nigeria in providing an enabling environment for the tech ecosystem.
Stevens pledged United State mission in Nigeria’s continued support towards promoting partnerships that advance the development of Nigeria’s tech and startup ecosystem.
He said the mission would continue to catalyse technological progress and promote a more robust United State Nigeria trade and investment relationship.
“Nigeria is rapidly being recognised by global tech companies as a centre for tech talent and innovation and the United State mission is committed to working with the U.S. and Nigerian tech companies to harness this great potential”, he said.
The implementing partners, Dr Inya Lawal of Ascend Studios Foundation, and Mr Abdulsalam Umar of Future Map, affirmed that GTA would attract support from private, public and development sectors.
According to them, it will help explore opportunities for tech infrastructure and investment, support for start-ups, grants, seed  funding and investments.
Other partners expected at the event include Business Sweden, Venture Garden Group, RivExcel Health, and other Tech Giants across the world.