Daily Trust

Why we apply UK-based expertise to teach digital technology — Ageba

- By Simon Echewofun Sunday

David Ageba from Benue State is a trainer and consultant on digital technology. The graduate of Business Administra­tion from the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, also holds an MBA degree from the United Kingdom. In this interview, he spoke about using foreign based expertise to empower others on digital technology. to empower others? your

We currently have two platforms Advance Careers and Digital Echoes. Advance Careers which is our training arm focuses on developing skilled digital resources and prospectiv­e entreprene­urs. Recently, one of our UK students transition­ed into the world of business with the knowledge, skills and experience acquired from us.

This is just one of the multiple successes we have registered over the year. We have employed people here (Nigeria) in various roles. The second platform which is Digital Echoes, is an agency for digital marketing, outsourcin­g and software developmen­t all embedded into one organisati­on.

What does your consultanc­y firm do? My organisati­on’s goal is to level up Nigeria with practical digital skills to help move our country towards complete digital transforma­tion. We do this by providing hands-on training and UK based practical experience­s to enable us to complete globally in technology.

What challenges do you face in this venture?

I am not an activist, but someone with new ideas to move our nation forward after spending last few years abroad. Most start ups face financial challenges and the ability to attract good staff and clients who believe in your idea and trust you to proffer the best solution. But in my experience with digital businesses, the start-ups cost can be very low which reduces the financial burden. In short, one of my businesses is a digital agency and my start up requiremen­t was a laptop and connection to the internet and at least one client.

What projects are you working on?

We are setting up our Nigerian offices in Lagos and Abuja. I recently completed our flagship project management and business analysis masterclas­s. Once we start operation fully in Nigeria, Advance Careers UK/ NG will provide digital skill training to Nigerians with practical work experience. The key difference with our training is the work experience which makes our graduate more employable.

What platforms have you created What is your current member strength?

We currently have staff strength of 12: seven are in the UK and five are in Nigeria. We hope to grow rapidly as our client base increases.

How do you source funding?

I funded my business from money I made consulting in the UK. The unique thing about digital business is that it requires less start-up cost, but as you grow bigger, you may require additional funds. However, you may be self-sufficient during the growth stage, which was my experience. Starting a digital marketing agency requires less funding, all you need is a laptop and internet access with some fund.

What are expansion?

plans for

Strategica­lly, we plan to expand in the UK, Nigeria and North America. We are in the process of securing an office in Lagos and Manchester between now and the end of 2020. We should have four offices, in London, Manchester, Lagos and Abuja from the third quarter of 2020. We then move our focus to America the big apple afterwards.

What is your advice to youths, many who are still unemployed?

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