While it is common knowledge that Lagos is home to arguably the largest tech hub in the continent, with over 600 startups located in the city, which is about 88% of the total number of startups in the country. However, a new emerging trend is that several other tech hubs have been popping up around the country in places like Abuja and Ibadan and other cities.

The South, South, and Southeast are also not left behind, as efforts are being made to develop a startup culture in these regions, and the results so far have been encouraging.

With 11 states in the region, we take a look at some of the cities and their potential to become major tech hubs in the near future.

Port Harcourt: Port Harcourt, the capital city of Rivers State, is also becoming a major tech hub in the country. It is home to several technology companies, incubation centres, and startups.

Calabar: Calabar, the capital city of Cross River State, is emerging as a major tech hub in the South-South region of Nigeria. It is home to a growing number of tech startups and has a supportive government that promotes the growth of the tech industry.

Enugu: Enugu is the capital city of Enugu State and is also a major tech hub in the South-East region of Nigeria. It is home to several technology companies and startups and has a thriving tech community.

Uyo: Uyo, the capital city of Akwa Ibom State, is also a major tech hub in the South-South region of Nigeria. It is home to a growing number of tech startups and is supported by the state government to promote the growth of the tech industry.

Owerri: Owerri, the capital city of Imo State, is another emerging tech hub in the South-East region of Nigeria. It is home to several technology companies and startups, as well as incubation centres.

Asaba: Asaba, the capital city of Delta State, is also a growing tech hub in the South-South region of Nigeria. It is home to a number of tech startups and has a supportive government that promotes the growth of the tech industry.

Umuahia: Umuahia, the capital city of Abia State, is also a major tech hub in the South-East region of Nigeria. It is home to several technology companies, startups, and incubation centres.

Benin City: Benin City, the capital city of Edo State, is also a growing tech hub in the South-South region of Nigeria. It has a growing tech community and is home to several tech startups and incubation centres.

Of all the states considered above, we believe Asaba has the potential to be a major tech hub in the South-South and even the South East. Here`s why:

Asaba has the potential to become the next tech hub in Nigeria, but it will require a concentrated effort from both the government and private sector to make this a reality. 

1. Strategic Location: Asaba’s location in the southern part of Nigeria, situated along the banks of the Niger River, makes it a strategic location for business and investment. It is also situated close to other major cities such as Onitsha, Warri, and Benin City, making it easily accessible for potential investors.
2. Government Support: The government of Delta State, where Asaba is located, has shown a commitment to developing the state’s technology sector. In 2019, the state government launched the Delta State Innovation Hub, which aims to support and grow the tech ecosystem in the state. The government has also invested in infrastructure development, such as providing reliable electricity and internet connectivity, which are essential for a thriving tech hub.
3. Tech Education: Asaba has a growing number of universities and other educational institutions that offer courses in technology and computer science. This provides a pool of skilled professionals for tech companies to hire from and also encourages the growth of tech startups in the city.
4. Supportive Community: Asaba has a vibrant and supportive community of tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs who regularly organise meetups and events to share knowledge and network. This community provides a conducive environment for aspiring tech entrepreneurs to thrive and learn from each other.
5. Growing Start-up Scene: Asaba is already home to a few successful tech startups, such as Hizo, OliliFood, Vent Africa, Rave Nigeria (a payment platform) and Landvext, Coriftech. As more successful startups emerge from the city, it will attract more investors and talent, creating a positive cycle of growth.

Overall, while Asaba may not be as developed as cities like Lagos and Abuja, it has all the necessary ingredients to become the next tech hub in Nigeria. With the right support and investment, Asaba could become a major player and the next major hub in the country’s technology sector.





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