Kaduna, once primarily known for its historical and cultural significance, is steadily transforming into a burgeoning tech hub in northern Nigeria. With an influx of young, innovative minds and the rise of tech-focused initiatives, the city is positioning itself as a center for digital innovation, tech startups, and skill development. At the heart of this transformation are individuals like Abubakar Shehu Idris, a respected tech advocate and organizer of impactful tech events in Kaduna.
In this blog, we explore the rise of technology in Kaduna, focusing on the efforts and insights of Abubakar Shehu Idris. He shares his thoughts on the growth of the tech community, the challenges faced, and the opportunities that lie ahead for the city.
Q&A with Abubakar Shehu Idris
Q1: How would you describe the current state of the tech ecosystem in Kaduna?
Abubakar: Kaduna’s tech ecosystem is growing rapidly. Over the past few years, we’ve witnessed a significant increase in the number of tech hubs, coding boot camps, and digital marketing training programs. The youth here are embracing technology like never before, and this is evident in the rising number of startups, freelancers, and tech entrepreneurs emerging from Kaduna. While there’s still work to be done in terms of infrastructure, the enthusiasm and talent of the people make the future promising.
Q2: What inspired you to start organizing tech-related events in Kaduna?
Abubakar: The inspiration came from a desire to bridge the gap between tech enthusiasts and opportunities. When I started, I noticed many young people with potential lacked access to the right platforms, mentorship, and resources to grow. Organizing events like hackathons, seminars, and coding workshops was a way to bring the community together, create learning opportunities, and expose participants to global tech trends.
Q3: Can you share some memorable moments from the events you’ve organized?
Abubakar: One of the most memorable moments was during a tech boot camp we held last year. A young woman who had never coded before built her first mobile app in just three weeks. Her confidence and excitement were infectious, and she went on to land a remote job shortly after. Moments like these remind me why I’m passionate about organizing these events—they truly change lives.
Q4: What challenges have you faced in organizing tech events in Kaduna, and how have you tackled them?
Abubakar: One major challenge is funding. Many tech events require resources like equipment, internet access, and space, which can be expensive. We’ve managed to overcome this by partnering with local businesses, government agencies, and international organizations that believe in our vision. Another challenge is convincing people of the importance of tech skills in today’s world, but with consistent efforts and visible success stories, that perception is changing.
Q5: How do you see the role of the government and private sector in the growth of technology in Kaduna?
Abubakar: Both have critical roles to play. The government can invest in tech education, improve infrastructure, and provide grants or incentives for startups. The private sector, on the other hand, can create opportunities by hiring local talent, sponsoring events, and fostering innovation through collaboration. A partnership between these two sectors is essential for sustainable growth.
Q6: What’s your vision for the future of Kaduna’s tech scene?
Abubakar: I see Kaduna becoming a major tech hub in Nigeria, not just in the north but across the country. In the next five to ten years, I envision a thriving community of developers, data scientists, and entrepreneurs who will create solutions that address local and global challenges. My dream is for Kaduna to be known as a place where talent and innovation thrive.
The Role of Events in Kaduna’s Tech Growth
The events organized by Abubakar Shehu Idris and others like him are more than just gatherings—they are catalysts for transformation. These events provide a platform for collaboration, mentorship, and exposure to cutting-edge technology. From coding boot camps to digital entrepreneurship workshops, they have been instrumental in nurturing talent and sparking creativity among the youth.
Looking Ahead
Kaduna’s rise as a technology hub is a testament to the power of innovation, community, and determination. With people like Abubakar leading the charge, the city is well on its way to becoming a beacon of digital excellence in Nigeria.
What do you think about Kaduna’s growing tech scene? Share your thoughts in the comments, and stay tuned for more updates on tech in Kaduna!
