In a remarkable tale of resilience and innovation, the Rivers State tech ecosystem has emerged as a beacon of technological excellence in the Niger Delta. At the heart of this transformative journey is Gino Osahon, a pioneer who has played a pivotal role in shaping the ecosystem.
Since 2013, the Rivers State tech ecosystem has witnessed remarkable growth, with over 17 thriving hubs, developer, and startup communities. These groups have collectively equipped thousands of young individuals with digital skills, leading to the creation of startups that have further enriched the ecosystem.
In an exclusive interview with Osahon, he shared his story of resilience and determination in building a thriving tech community in Port Harcourt.
Q: What inspired you to contribute to building the foundations of the Rivers State tech ecosystem?
R: “My name is Gino Osahon, and I am privileged to have played a pioneering role in this transformative journey. After completing my software engineering program at NIIT Port Harcourt in 2010, I struggled to find like-minded individuals to share knowledge and solve problems collaboratively.
“While in school, I had a small circle of peers who engaged in technical programming sessions and worked on projects together. However, after graduation, many left Port Harcourt to study abroad, relocate to other states in Nigeria, or pursue different career paths.
“The absence of a supportive developer network in Port Harcourt fueled my determination to create one. My quest for connection and collaboration led me to research and eventually establish GDG (Google Developer Group) Port Harcourt in 2013—the first developer community in Rivers State.”
Q: After completing his software engineering program at NIIT Port Harcourt. Faced with the challenge of finding like-minded individuals to share knowledge and solve problems collaboratively, how did you go about building this community?
R: “I founded the first developer community, Google Developer Group Port Harcourt, in Rivers State—a milestone driven by a significant personal challenge. I quickly assembled a team of dedicated volunteers as a community leader and advocate, and together, we began hosting events, raising awareness about technology, and fostering collaboration among tech enthusiasts. This initiative contributed significantly to laying the foundation for the Port Harcourt tech ecosystem.”
Q: So far, would you say there is a significant impact your contribution has had on the Rivers State tech ecosystem?
R: “The impact of our efforts has been profound. Over 5,000 young people have been trained in digital skills, with approximately 30% now working remotely for international organizations or running their startups. The Ken Saro-Wiwa Innovation Hub, which I managed, has trained over 3,000 persons in emerging digital fields and incubated 25 startups.
“Our efforts caught the attention of key stakeholders across various sectors, including academia, startups, venture capitalists, government, and other tech communities. We inspired the creation of additional groups, enriching the ecosystem. Innovation hubs provided spaces for learning, collaboration, and creativity. The media amplified our story, and the tech industry lent their support and expertise.”
Q: What milestones have you achieved in your journey?
R: ” Let me do a little highlight, In 2016, I led a team of six GDG leads and 30 volunteers from South-South GDG communities to organize #DevFest2016, the largest developer conference in the region to date. Over the years, I have directly trained more than 5,000 young people in the Niger Delta, imparting skills in web development, mobile development, AR/VR, IoT, cloud technologies, AI, blockchain, and UI/UX design.”
Q: What is your vision for the future of the Rivers State tech ecosystem?
R: “Looking back, I am humbled by how far we have come and energized by the potential that lies ahead. The Rivers State tech ecosystem is a testament to the power of community, dedication, passion, sacrifice, and collaboration. I remain committed as we continue to grow, foster innovation, empower the next generation, and ensure that Port Harcourt remains a beacon of technological excellence in the Niger Delta, Nigeria, and beyond.”
