In a compelling keynote address at the annual SMFest conference in Abuja, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Kalu, emphasized that investment in human capital is the cornerstone of technological development and economic growth.
Speaking to a diverse audience of entrepreneurs, tech innovators, and policymakers, Kalu underscored the urgent need for Nigeria to prioritize education, digital literacy, and innovation-driven skill development. “No nation can thrive in the digital age without empowering its people,” he stated. “Human capital is not just a resource—it is the engine of innovation and transformation.”
The SMFest conference, known for spotlighting technology’s role in business and society, served as a platform for Kalu to highlight the widening investment gap in Nigeria’s tech sector. He pointed to structural and regulatory challenges, including deficits in digital infrastructure and high development costs, as barriers that must be addressed through strategic policy and public-private partnerships.
Kalu’s remarks come amid growing calls from industry leaders and academics for sustained investment in human capital across sectors. Recent studies have shown that countries with robust human capital frameworks experience higher industrial productivity and global competitiveness, especially in emerging markets like Africa.
Kalu concluded with a call to action: “If we want to build a future where Nigeria leads in technology, we must first invest in our people. The dividends of human capital are long-term, but they are the most sustainable path to prosperity.”