By Peace Udugba.
The Digital Professional Fair 2025 has taken a significant step towards strengthening Nigeria’s digital economy by equipping young professionals with the skills, strategies, and mindset needed to compete globally. Held in Lagos, the event brought together industry leaders, innovators, and young professionals to share ideas, address industry challenges, and expand career opportunities.
*Key Highlights:
– Ms. Tutu Adetunbi, Convener of the event, emphasized the importance of preparing Nigerian youths to lead the digital economy, stating, “If we are to see Nigeria’s digital economy thrive, we must prepare our young people to lead it.
– Uchechi Ihuoma, Creative Resource Consultant, highlighted the accessibility of digital marketing as an entry point for young entrepreneurs, emphasizing the need for sustained practice, collaboration, and skill monetization.
– Hassanant Abubakar, Founder of Fuse Variety, outlined four pillars of digital growth: skill, systems, structure, and strategy, as essential tools for business success and building a resilient digital workforce.
– Amarachi Ogbonna: Digital Strategist, encouraged participants to view freelancing and corporate work as complementary avenues, contributing to Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem with discipline and consistency.
– Omobosola Karimat: CEO of Hafrikplay, stressed the importance of professionalism in positioning Nigerian talent favorably on the world stage, saying, “Skill gets you noticed, but professionalism keeps you in the room.”
*Key Takeaways:
– *Develop your skills: Continuously improve your craft and stay up-to-date with industry trends.
– *Build relationships: Network with other creatives, potential clients, and industry experts.
– *Showcase your work: Create a portfolio, share your work on social media, and leverage testimonials to build credibility.
– Monetize strategically: Know your value, price correctly, and don’t be afraid to charge what you’re worth.
– Stay adaptable: The digital economy is constantly evolving, so it’s essential to stay ahead of the curve and adapt to new trends and technologies.
The Future of the Digital Economy:
The digital economy continues to grow, offering exciting opportunities for creatives and entrepreneurs. With the government recognizing the importance of this sector, there are likely to be more initiatives and programs to support businesses.
*Expert Insights:
– *Omobosola Alaka*, CEO & Co-Founder of Hafrikplay, advises young Nigerians to leverage Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools like ChatGPT to boost the digital economy.
– Amarachi Ogbonna, discusses the advantages and disadvantages of freelancing and corporate jobs, and how to balance both.
The event has sharpened the vision of attendees, enabling them to see their individual growth as part of a collective national effort to secure Nigeria’s place in the global digital economy.
