You have heard of Silicon Valley. For individuals who do not know, Silicon Valley is home to many of the world’s largest high-tech corporations in the world as well as thousands of Startups. It is located in San Francisco in California. At Silicon Valley, you find Facebook, Alphabet Inc, Apple Inc, HP Inc, Netflix, Symantec, Yahoo among many other blue chip tech companies.
It’s about time Nigeria has a hub modelled like Silicon Valley. Although Yaba (Yabacon) was declared Nigeria’s Silicon Valley, Computer Village located in Ikeja, also has the potential to become a viable and profitable Silicon Valley. Here are the reasons.
Hub for any tech gadgets
If you want to buy or sell any gadget, Computer Village is the place to go. It is where big tech brands and their approved distributors set up stores. You will get affordable devices that you do not need to break the bank. These tech brands can take advantage of this.
Guaranteed manpower
Intending tech companies or tech-oriented startups do not need to worry so much about manpower. They are readily available. There are marketers who can scavenge for customers and roadside engineers who are very good at repairing different electronic gadgets. You can recruit them. However, there must be strict rules and regulation to vet them before engaging them.
Intending tech Companies have ready made patronage
Computer village is well known in Lagos and Nigeria. Thousands of Lagosians troop to the village to do all sorts of business transactions. Hence, there is a ready man customer base for every intending tech company or startup. And with a bit of media campaign, it will definitely boost publicity of the companies.
Requires a bit of organisation
Computer Village is a microcosm of the fast paced, crass and hustle Lagos is famed. A first time visitor to the village will be discouraged from another visit due to this. However, with better planning, Computer Village can be a Silicon Valley. Zones should be created for selling and marketing, and another reserved for strictly the tech companies and startups. If the government can get the Village organised, get rid of touts, expand and secure the place, you will find not only tech companies breezing in but also other businesses. Perhaps the Lagos state Government should have invested the billions it is spending on a white elephant project like Eko Atlantic in creating a friendly work ambiance at Computer Village.
China is on ground
China is on its way to becoming the biggest economy in the world as the global economy gradually rebound. In addition, the many businesses are moving to China. This is why Nigeria’s President, Muhammadu Buhari went to China to sign mouthwatering deals as well as request for loans. At Computer Village today, countless Chinese tech companies like Huawei, Techno, Gionee, and Lenovo are domiciled. Of course, other countries want to counter China’s burgeoning trade. Perhaps setting up shop at Computer Village will check this and boost competition.
Do you think Computer Village can become Nigeria’s Silicon Valley some day? Please share your comments!
