21st Century Technologies and US Unveil ‘America Corner’ in Nigeria
In a groundbreaking collaboration, 21st Century Technologies, a leading communication technology company, has aligned with the United States to propel digital transformation and nurture a robust digital ecosystem in Nigeria. This ambitious vision recently materialized with the unveiling of ‘America Corner’—a tech and creative space—at 21st Century’s corporate headquarters in Lekki, Lagos.
America Corner: An Innovation Oasis in Nigeria
The inauguration of America Corner at 21st Century’s headquarters marks a significant stride, positioning the company as one of the 245 centers globally where the US has established American Corners since 2000. The ceremony was graced by none other than the US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, and Wale Ajisebutu, CEO of 21st Century Technologies.
Unveiling the Future: Commissioning by Secretary Blinken
Secretary Blinken, during the commissioning, emphasized the pivotal role that America Corner plays in fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and creativity, especially among the youth. He highlighted that the partnership with 21st Century is a deliberate effort to advance technology and creativity within the Nigerian youth demographic.
21st Century’s Technological Legacy
Acknowledging 21st Century’s role in shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape, Secretary Blinken noted that the company, as a technology pioneer, deployed the first Fibre optics network in Nigeria in 1997. Additionally, 21st Century played a pioneering role in establishing Nigeria’s data center infrastructure.
A Global Vision for Collaboration
Secretary Blinken shared insights into the broader vision of collaboration between the US and African countries, emphasizing the need to move from a perspective of “what we can do for Africa” to “what we can do with Africa.” The initiative aims to address shared challenges collaboratively and deliver tangible results that benefit people.
America Corner Facilities: Nurturing Creativity and Innovation
The American Corner at 21st Century’s headquarters boasts state-of-the-art resources and facilities, including a digital studio, workshops, multimedia tools, and tech equipment. These facilities are provided free of charge to young Nigerians, offering them a space to explore their inventiveness, entrepreneurial spirit, and creative interests.
A Testament to Tech Advancement
Wale Ajisebutu, CEO of 21st Century Technologies, expressed pride in the initiative, stating, “This is a testament to our dedication to tech advancement and, of course, our passion for tomorrow’s leaders. We have always believed in partnership as a key element of success. We want to be part of Nigeria’s innovation journey to becoming the most advanced digital services provider in Africa and beyond.”
Dignitaries Witness the Launch
The launch of America Corner drew the attention of government representatives from both Nigeria and the US. United States Chargé d’Affaires, David Greene, Consul General in Lagos, and Nigeria’s Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, were among the dignitaries present to witness this historic collaboration.
Conclusion: A Collaborative Leap into the Digital Future
As America Corner takes its place in the vibrant landscape of Nigerian innovation, the partnership between 21st Century Technologies and the United States signifies a collaborative leap into a digital future. This initiative stands as a beacon, inspiring the youth to explore their potential and contribute to the technological evolution of Nigeria.
