Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on the Federal Government and private sector to increase investment in technology-driven startups, saying they hold significant potential for job creation, economic growth and Nigeria's standing in global technology markets. Jonathan made the appeal on Saturday when he received a delegation from Zeetin Technologies, led by Azibaola Robert, at a courtesy visit. The former president also chaired the launch and commissioning of the company's factory in Idu, Abuja.
Jonathan said in a Facebook post that he had monitored Zeetin Technologies' development closely and believed it could become a leading Nigerian success story in technology and innovation. He stressed that sustained investment and support for technology initiatives would accelerate the country's technological development. "With sustained investment and support for initiatives such as this, I am confident that Nigeria will soon make significant strides in technological advancement," Jonathan said.
The former president emphasised the need for deliberate policies and investment to support technology entrepreneurs, particularly young Nigerians. He argued that startups could drive employment and economic development. "We must be more intentional about supporting technology-driven start-ups. Doing so will create employment opportunities for our young people, stimulate economic growth and position Nigeria as a force to reckon with in the global technology landscape," he said.
Jonathan also praised Zeetin Technologies' assembly plant, which produces tricycles for transporting goods. He said the locally assembled vehicles would help move goods across the country, support small businesses and contribute to economic growth. Nigeria has been working to strengthen local manufacturing and assembly capacity as part of efforts to diversify the economy, create jobs and reduce reliance on imported products. The assembly of locally produced electric tricycles could also support cleaner transportation options for small businesses.