By A new tech hub has opened for business in the Yaba Tech Hub axis of Lagos, Nigeria with a template that the owners of the hub say has the capacity to make a great statement in the sector.
Unveiling the hub in the serene area of Montgomery, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Darey.io and Xterns.ai, Mr Dare Olufunmilayo described the hub as “a revolution in how we learn, build careers, and create opportunities in the tech ecosystem.”
Reflecting on his journey into the tech ecosystem, he said, “a few years ago, we started with a bold vision: to empower Africans with world-class digital skills and bridge the gap between talent and opportunity. We believed that, with the right platform, the right training, and the right mindset, anyone-no matter their background-could go from learning to earning in the global digital economy.”
According to him, the vision has now become a reality stating that thousands of Nigerians have started their careers through Darey.io, working for top global companies, launching startups, and creating groundbreaking solutions.
He disclosed that Xterns.ai “our next big leap-where we don’t just train talents; we integrate them directly into the workforce through our Proof-of-Skills Hiring model.
“This is why today’s theme-Tech & Tea: Brewing Nigeria’s Technology Innovation Future—is so important. It reflects our belief that, just like brewing the perfect tea, building a thriving digital economy requires the right ingredients: talent, innovation, and collaboration.”
Excited Olufunmilayo recalled the collaborative effort of others in the tech ecosystem saying that “the government’s 3MTT initiative is playing a crucial role in creating a future-ready workforce. Our partners, tech leaders, alumni and most importantly the amazing team behind our innovations as they have all contributed to making this dream a reality.”
He added: “whether you’re a learner, an entrepreneur, an investor, or a policymaker, you are a key part of this journey. Nigeria is rising as a tech powerhouse, and together, we will shape the future.”
He said that further that over the past four and a half years, Darey.io has trained more than 5,000 individuals, and with the 3MTT partnership, enrolment has now surpassed 100,000.
“Our goal remains three million trained professionals, and through this partnership, we are making that a reality,” he said.
On concerns about government support for providing essential tools such as laptops, Olufunmilayo acknowledged the government’s efforts but pointed out the limitations posed by high costs.
“The government is doing its best, but the demand is enormous. This is why private sector involvement is crucial,” he stated.
He reiterated the need for corporate organizations to step in and support talent development by investing in tools and resources that make learning accessible to all.
Beyond digital tools, he emphasized the importance of in-person collaboration, stating that innovation thrives when individuals interact and work together in shared spaces.
