By Prince Osuagwu

Hundreds of young innovators, students, entrepreneurs, and policymakers gathered in Abakaliki, Ebonyi State, on Saturday for the Technova Summit 2026, an event described by organisers as “Africa’s Carnival of Tech, Innovation and Opportunity.”

The one-day summit, held at the Ecumenical Centre along the Enugu–Abakaliki Road, was organised by DTCSI Academy and convened by Adum Obinna Abraham. It aimed to create a platform where technology could be discussed in practical and accessible ways for everyday Africans.

Unlike conventional conferences that focus primarily on formal presentations, the summit emphasized open conversations, networking, and practical insights. Participants engaged in discussions designed to bridge the gap between aspiring innovators and experienced tech founders already building products across the continent.

The event focused on four major themes, including the use of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and digital tools to address local challenges, understanding digital assets and markets in inclusive ways, strengthening trust through improved policies and legal frameworks, and empowering creators and communities to shape African narratives through technology.

Governor Francis Nwifuru attended the summit, signalling the Ebonyi State Government’s interest in positioning the state and the wider South-East region as an emerging hub for technology and innovation.

Also present were the state Commissioner for Information and Communication Technology and Special Assistants on Youth Empowerment, who reiterated their commitment to youth-driven technological development.

Academic leaders also participated in the discussions, including Vice Chancellors from David Umahi Federal University of Health Sciences, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, and Ebonyi State University, highlighting the role of tertiary institutions in fostering innovation and digital capacity among students.

The summit featured several speakers and technology practitioners who shared practical experiences from the industry. Among them were Toochukwu Okoro of Blocverse and UseAzza, Awosika Israel Ayodeji of Web3Bridge, Samuel Oladokun Olaoyenikan of Nirvana Academy, Chidubem Emelumadu of Lisk Africa, and John Nwenyi, a cyberlaw expert. Others included Mr. Spella, HEADBOY, and Thegreatola, whose sessions focused on real-world experiences and lessons from building within Africa’s digital ecosystem.

DTCSI Academy served as the headline sponsor of the summit, with additional support from partners including Lisk, Nirvana Academy, SuperteamNG, DIORA, UseAzza, and Ebocab. The organisers said the collaboration helped ensure that participants left the event with practical tools, networks, and opportunities for growth.

The summit attracted a broad range of participants, from students and National Youth Service Corps members exploring opportunities in the digital economy to developers, startup founders, policymakers, and investors interested in Africa’s evolving technology landscape.

Organisers said the goal of the gathering was to reinforce the idea that technology should not be limited to a select group but should remain accessible to anyone willing to learn, build, and collaborate.

As activities ran from morning to evening, participants shared ideas and explored opportunities aimed at strengthening Africa’s growing tech ecosystem, with many expressing optimism that initiatives such as Technova Summit would continue to inspire innovation and collaboration across the continent.