The Anambra state government has announced that it is forging a strategic partnership with up to 26 high-tech companies in the US. This was revealed in a statement by the Public Relations Officer of the state government, Angela Nwanodu. These companies include Google, Meta, Amazon Web Services, Dell and several others.
According to the statement seen by Technext, the strategic alliance was reached during a meeting held over the weekend at the US Consulate General in Lagos. At the meeting, the state’s delegation, led by His Excellency, Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, engaged in strategic discussions with the US Consul-General, William Stevens, and influential leaders from 26 renowned US high-tech companies.
“The aim of the meeting was to explore avenues for collaboration, forge corporate alliances, and foster technological partnerships to accelerate Anambra State’s growth. The meeting also provided an opportunity to enhance strategic partnerships for economic development and the exchange of technologies, fostering shared prosperity between Anambra State, its tech companies, and their counterparts in the United States,” the statement reads.
The Anambra delegation which also included the MD/CEO of the Anambra State ICT Agency, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata, Commissioner for Industry, Uchechukwu Christian, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Innovation and Business Incubation, Ms. Chinwe Okoli, seized the opportunity to present the state’s tech developmental strides under Governor Soludo’s leadership.
The delegation also showcased the government’s strategic plan to build a state where the tech ecosystem thrives.
While highlighting the key initiatives driving tech revolutions within the state, Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata underscored the governor’s commitment to establishing the state as a thriving hub for digital transformation and innovation.
Google, Amazon, and others pledge commitment to Anambra tech development
The US high-tech companies participating in the discussions expressed eagerness to support Anambra State in diverse capacities. Amazon Web Services offered to robustly support the State’s Digital Health and Education Transformation initiatives. Dell and HP offered technical support and substantial discounts for future devices purchased in the state.
Meta also pledged to deepen their collaboration in the state through partners such as IGHub and Fate Foundation, while Google expressed enthusiasm to pilot several initiatives and explore opportunities to enhance the digital presence of SMEs in Anambra, thereby contributing to increased digital footprints.
“Noteworthy, however, is the understanding that these commitments are preliminary and subject to further discussions and finetuning, by both the Anambra State Government and these tech industry giants, towards translating these commitments into impactful projects that will bring about lasting positive change for the people of Anambra,” the statement reads.
The statements also noted that the strategic alliances signal a significant milestone in Anambra State’s journey towards becoming a technology-driven hub. They also align seamlessly with Governor Soludo’s commitment to transform the State into the digital and creative capital of Nigeria.
“The partnerships forged with these leading industry giants, no doubt, are poised to catalyze innovation, economic growth, and societal development within the state,” the statement says.
Governor Soludo, in his remarks, expressed gratitude for the willingness of the US companies to support Anambra’s technological advancement, emphasizing the state’s commitment under his watch, to creating a conducive environment for collaboration and a thriving ecosystem for innovation.
See also: Governor Soludo implements zero right of way to drive broadband penetration in Anambra