Words by Ehimenim Agweh

Today, Nigeria plays host to Google and tech industry watchers with the ‘Google for Nigeria’ event and guess who came around? That’s right, Google’s CEO, Sundar Pichai is in the country and he marked his presence with a picture from Computer Village.

Hello from Lagos! #GoogleforNigeria pic.twitter.com/m5OKp3QE40

— Sundar Pichai (@sundarpichai) July 27, 2017

The event which is already underway saw Adekunle Gold perform as the opening act in front of an audience of executives, press men and observers. Google even has one of its signature doodles to commemorate the event. Trainings are also taking place in addition to the event.

It's D-Day, hope you're ready! #GoogleforNigeria pic.twitter.com/l1wNRkteeo

— Google in Africa (@googleafrica) July 27, 2017

As part of the lineup of events for the program, Google launched StreetView for Lagos and showcased the most popular search tags from Nigeria.

Popular searches in Nigeria over the past year.. @iRuntown I see you!! #GoogleForNigeria https://t.co/mqb7l6lhiH

— Estol Africa (@cutekimani) July 27, 2017

Nigeria’s bustling tech space has been a magnet for big tech corporations in recent years. Lured by the possibilities of Computer Village and a dream Silicon Valley in Yaba, Nigeria’s lack of stable power, business start up difficulties and political roadblocks aren’t stopping Google and it’s affiliates from providing solutions to tech start ups around the nation. With the high numbers of personnel in various branches of technology in the country, it’s no surprise that the world has taken notice and come to our doorsteps.

Featured Image Credit: REUTERS/Akintunde Akinleye

A journalist by training, Ehimenim is a lover of history, good books and Game of Thrones. For her, the real world is just another Westeros and everyone is a supporting character. Read and repeat is her motto. Give her a wave on Twitter @EAgweh.

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