By Paul Chimodo
When participants arrived at the CEEDAPEG Hotel in Uyo for Akwa Ibom Tech Week 2025, it was clear the event was more than a conference. Held from November 3 to 8, 2025, it brought together innovators, students, investors and policymakers to explore opportunities for digital transformation and economic growth. The theme, “Catalyzing Digital Transformation for Innovation, Investment and Impact,” reflected the ambition to turn Uyo into a hub for technology and entrepreneurship.
The event was organised by the Ibom Innovation Network and focused on building a sustainable ecosystem rather than hosting a one-off show. The goal was to position Akwa Ibom as a centre for creation and innovation.
Hanson Johnson, President of the Ibom Innovation Network, said the event was designed to showcase local talent and connect it to resources, knowledge and opportunities. He emphasised that Akwa Ibom has a large pool of young, creative talent that can thrive if given proper support. He said, “We recognised the critical need for a platform that could not only showcase this talent but also connect it with the resources, knowledge, and opportunities required to truly flourish.” He added that the long-term vision is to evolve Akwa Ibom into a significant producer and exporter of digital solutions rather than merely a consumer of technology.
A key highlight of the week was the Innovation Challenge, where teams of students and startups competed by presenting solutions in areas such as agriculture, education, healthcare and renewable energy. Winners received mentorship and funding to turn their ideas into real projects. The competition emphasised practical outcomes and encouraged participants to develop scalable solutions.
Another important feature was the Deal Room, where selected startups pitched directly to investors. Some participants received offers of funding, demonstrating that the event was focused on tangible results and the growth of viable businesses.
Aniedi Udo-Obong, Program Manager for Developer Ecosystem at Google, delivered a keynote titled “From Problems to Possibilities: Moonshot Thinking.” He encouraged participants to build solutions for their communities while thinking about global impact. He said innovation that begins locally can reach a wider audience if built with authenticity and purpose.
The programme included workshops and sessions on AI, Web3, venture building, digital skills and data protection. It combined knowledge sharing with practical learning, ensuring that participants gained skills that could support careers in technology and entrepreneurship.
The organisers also highlighted culture and place as part of building the ecosystem. Participants experienced Akwa Ibom’s heritage and hospitality through side activities, showing that talent retention relies not just on opportunities but also on quality of life and community identity.
While the week achieved success, the real challenge will be sustaining the momentum. Startups will need ongoing mentorship, access to funding and supportive policies to grow beyond the conference. Hanson Johnson emphasised that the ultimate measure of success is the development of a long-term ecosystem where ideas can turn into viable businesses and employment opportunities.
Akwa Ibom Tech Week 2025 showed that innovation is not limited to Lagos or Abuja. With focused planning, collaboration and investment in local talent, Uyo has the potential to become a significant technology hub. The event was a statement that the region is ready for the future, and the coming months will determine whether the momentum translates into sustained growth and meaningful impact.
