Charting a Digital Destiny for the Niger Delta
The 2025 Niger Delta Digital Summit in Port Harcourt marked a pivotal moment for a region determined to move beyond the legacy of oil. Under the theme “Beyond Oil: Shaping a Digital Future for the Niger Delta,” the gathering brought together government leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, and innovators who share a common vision: to build a digitally inclusive economy rooted in connectivity, capacity, and collaboration.
Throughout the summit, speakers emphasized that the Niger Delta must no longer remain a bystander in the global technology revolution. From investments in broadband infrastructure and solar-powered digital kiosks to training programs in artificial intelligence and blockchain, participants outlined concrete measures to transform how communities learn, work, and build enterprises.
Among the distinguished voices was Patrick Isicheli, Assistant Director of Business Applications and Training at the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), who presented a strategic blueprint focused on expanding internet access, supporting local startups, and fostering collaboration across sectors. His remarks challenged stakeholders to take ownership of the region’s digital transformation and prepare the next generation for the opportunities ahead.
The event also featured contributions from leading innovators and thought leaders, including Aaron Esumeh, Co-Founder of Hardware Garage, known for promoting hardware development and local manufacturing; Olusegun Ekundayo, HUB Manager at CTEC, who has supported numerous technology training initiatives; Enyie Peter Kere, Managing Director of Tomkey Integrated Services, with a focus on ICT infrastructure; and Prof. Olufemi M. Adesope of the University of Port Harcourt, an expert in agricultural extension and rural development.
Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, a respected scholar and technology entrepreneur, delivered a keynote address virtually, sharing insights on building innovation ecosystems and scaling digital solutions that can drive inclusive growth across the Niger Delta. His contribution reinforced the importance of combining academic expertise with practical entrepreneurship to create lasting impact.
Among this dynamic group, Tosin Bukun-Joseph, Founder and CEO of SYL Multimedia, joined the conversation to explore practical strategies for accelerating digital skills and entrepreneurship. SYL Multimedia’s participation underscored the importance of moving beyond symbolic gestures to real interventions that empower individuals and institutions.
Reflecting on this commitment, the CEO shared a message that captured the spirit of the moment:
“We have started an unquenchable fire with a non-cosmetic approach to moving the Niger Delta socio-cultural ethos to new heights, one based on capacity development, industrialization, wealth creation, entrepreneurship and prosperity beyond Crude Oil.”
This conviction resonated strongly with the summit’s call to action. As the region embraces its digital future, SYL Multimedia remains dedicated to creating platforms, programs, and partnerships that equip communities to thrive on their own terms. The summit did more than set an agenda; it affirmed that the Niger Delta’s greatest asset lies not beneath its soil, but in the ingenuity and resilience of its people.