This year, one of Nigeria’s biggest financial institutions, Zenith Bank Plc, will hold its Tech Fair. Similar to the First Bank Tech Summit, the event aims to help people understand and leverage emerging technologies to enhance various aspects of life. It serves as a platform for young creatives to showcase their innate abilities and talents in the tech world.
Since its inception, with the first edition held on November 27, 2019, the Zenith Bank Tech Fair has consistently delivered remarkable and impactful outcomes. The event features activities such as panel discussions and hackathons. Over the years, it has attracted prestigious speakers who share knowledge on relevant areas of emerging technologies during panel sessions.
The Immediate Past Edition: Future Forward 3.0
The third edition of the Tech Fair, themed “Future Forward 3.0”, took place from November 23–24, 2023, at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. The event was graced by notable dignitaries, including:
- Chris Lu, renowned IT specialist, business strategist, and Managing Director of Huawei Technologies, Nigeria.
- Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank Plc and Chairman of the Body of Banks’ CEOs in Nigeria.
- Fey Wong, Director of Palmpay.
- Adelola Agbebiyi, Managing Director of Network International.
The event featured engaging panel sessions. The first session, moderated by Chris Lu, explored the theme: “The Next Frontier: Digital Wallets, Contactless Payments, and BNPL (Buy Now Pay Later)”. The second panel, hosted by John Obidi, delved into “The Intersection of Fintech, eCommerce, and SMEs – Collaboration for Growth” with contributions from five other discussants.
READ ALSO: THE ARTICLE ON POOP-TO-POWER
The Upcoming Edition (2024)
This year’s Tech Fair is scheduled for November 21, 2024, at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. Like previous editions, it promises to deliver an array of exciting activities, including masterclasses, panel sessions, and the innovative Zecathon—Zenith Bank’s branded hackathon.
According to Zenith Bank’s website, the event will include:
- Zecathon: A competition for startups and tech enthusiasts to present innovative tech solutions. The most impactful ideas will win grants and receive additional support from the bank.
- Presentations: Insights from leading local and international tech leaders.
- Tech Exhibitions: Showcases by leading IT companies, fintech firms, and startups.
Registration Details
Registration for the event is simple. Participants need to provide the following details:
- Full names (first and last name).
- Email address.
- Phone number.
- A brief explanation of why they wish to attend the Tech Fair.
Notable Speakers for 2024
The 2024 edition will feature an impressive lineup of speakers, including:
- Robin Speculand (Keynote Speaker): Strategy & Digital Implementation Specialist, Author of World’s Best Bank.
- Jania Okwechime: Partner, Africa AI & Data Leader, Deloitte.
- Danilo McGarry: Global Expert on Digital Transformation, AI, Automation, Data, and Innovation.
- Rupert Nicolay: Director, Microsoft Worldwide Financial Services.
- Engr. Bisoye Coker-Odusote: Director-General/CEO, NIMC.
- Ada Jabaru: Founder/Director, Nistad Limited.
- Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi: Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency.
- Guy Futi: CEO, Orda.
- Dr. Auwal Adam Sa’ad: Founder, ZamzamPay.
- Funke Opeke: Founder, MainOne.
- Wole Odeleye: Technology Lead, Financial Services, Microsoft (Panel Host).
For more information, kindly visit www.zenithbank.com/techfair.
By Joy Ebi-Robert