By Egufe Yafugborhi

UYO – YOUTHS in Akwa Ibom state have been charged to breaks barriers and up their creativity in leveraging emerging tech solutions to create value and share the glory for reshaping Africa’s digital economy.

At the 2025 Innovate Conference in Uyo, keynote Speaker and Convener, Godswill Akpan, urged participants to move beyond being mere attendees to embrace intentional problem solving approach in the tech space to become innovators.

Reflecting on the Conference theme, ‘From Obstacles to Opportunities: Defying the Odds in Tech’, Akpan, founder, For The Love of DeFi, stated, “We do not just talk, we build. The future belongs to those who can defy the odds.

“Many young people face different challenges. Some lack knowledge about Web3, others struggle with access to funding or the right tools. But every level of growth comes with its hurdles, and only those with the right mindset can overcome them.”

He noted that the remarkable turnout of the 2024 Conference spurred improvements in this year’s edition, including a pre-event hackathon, adding, “Last year was three days, this year we added a hackathon to ensure we are not just discussing innovation but actually building solutions.”

To the youths, the advised, “You are either living by default or by design. Those who live by default are reactive, without clear goals. But those who live by design are intentional about learning, evolving, and positioning selves for global opportunities.”

Speaking on Revolutionizing Africa: How to Change the Narrative For African Builder’s Credibility And Attract Investment, Awosika Ayodeji, Chief Mechanic, Web&bridge, noted, “The past skepticism about African tech is shifting.

“We are moving from being an underdeveloped market to a thriving hub of talent and successful startups. But we must ensure transparency, global partnerships, and sustainable innovation.”

He pointed to increasing venture capital interest, blockchain adoption, and the emergence of African unicorns startups valued at over $1 billion, as proof Africa is making significant strides in the tech industry.

On Blocks to Blockchain Developer, Myths, Methods And Materials, Glory Praise Emmanuel, explored the transition from traditional technology to blockchain, demystifying concepts and methods that define the industry.

The interactive Conference also featured networking, a quiz and Panel Discussions on the role of artificial intelligence, decentralized finance, and blockchain technology in reshaping industries with experts advocating increased collaboration and investment in African startups.