Uchir Mamfe Patience

I am genuinely proud of how the Benue community is embracing tech and tech activities. The @3MTTNigeria in Benue State hosted a meetup that gathered on 11th May, 2024 about 150-200 fellows from all over Benue in one seating. It was a gathering of tech-driven enthusiasts, professionals, and talents seeking to transition into tech. Trust me when I say this, if not for the rains, the numbers would have exceeded 300 participants. I was invited as a speaker for the meetup, and the topic was “My Tech Career Blueprint: actionable strategies to building a successful tech career”. As a way of triggering a deep sense of purpose in tech, I encouraged the fellows to hold onto these principles at every stage of their tech journey: 1. Dedication > Motivation 2. Quality work > Quantity 3. Long term > Short Term In giving them actionable strategies to build a successful tech career, I highlighted seven things: 1. Encouraged fellows to conduct self-assessments about their tech career path to fit in and set goals, which could be in the form of SMART goals. 2. Emphasized that learning never stops. The tech industry evolves rapidly, necessitating continuous learning and skill development. 3. Advocated for networking and building relationships, as networking opens doors to job opportunities, mentorship, and collaborations. 4. Advised fellows to develop a strong personal brand, which distinguishes them in a competitive job market. This includes developing a professional portfolio showcasing projects and achievements, participating in hackathons, and sharing insights on LinkedIn to build credibility. 5. Recommended that fellows find or choose areas of expertise and specialties rather than generalizing their expertise. 6. Highlighted the importance of soft skills in tech. 7. Stressed that advancing in tech requires strategic planning, continuous learning, and adaptability. One of the most exciting parts of the meetup was the eagerness, enthusiasm, and willingness to engage in tech expressed by the fellows. We also networked and made contacts, and I was happy to listen to fellows share their personal experiences and prospects of their journey thus far. It was great reconnecting with cohort 1 fellows assigned to @SKYHubNigeria, @Cs3Ng, and other training providers in Benue State. I must not forget to mention that I shared the stage with an amazing backend engineer, @SinlessDude. Thank you for sharing your story and insights with the fellows. I almost forgot I was a speaker and listened keenly to your presentation. Indeed, you're one of the finest developers we have here in Benue. A big appreciation to the 3MTT Benue State Community Manager, Tuleun Aondohemba Kelvin. Your leadership skill is top-notch. With the HM Dr. @bosuntijani, @NITDANigeria as well as local tech hubs, digital and tech literacy will be available for all. It is my desire to continue putting strategic efforts with like minds into seeing the Benue Ecosystem grow bigger than every other ecosystem.

A huge thank you to everyone who made the Potiskum meetup a resounding success. Together, we're shaping the future of tech in Yobe State! #3MTTNigeria #TechRevolution #YobeInnovation @bosuntijani @NITDANigeria @FMCIDENigeria

Earlier this week, led by the Honorable Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. @bosuntijani, I signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria, to train young Nigerians on latest 4G/ 5G radio and transmission technologies at the Nigerian Communications Commission’s [@NgComCommission] Digital Parks. Nokia Nigeria would be setting up a fully functional 5G/4G test lab, leveraging their latest radio and transmission technologies. This collaboration advances our vision to enhance the capacity and skills-set of Nigerians, by equipping them with contemporary skills and knowledge needed to adapt to the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry. In tune with the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy’s [@FMCIDENigeria] goal to drive digital literacy and build a pipeline of technical talents across Nigeria, Nokia Nigeria would also set up an Entrepreneur Learning Program where it would deliver high-quality vocational trainings to 200 Nigerian students chosen from across the six geo political zones of Nigeria.