By Kingsley I. Ilechukwu, Bureau Chief, South West
Anambra State Government, led by Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo, continues to make
giant and groundbreaking strides in the realm of technology. In recognition of the state’s commitment to a digital future, the MD/CEO of Anambra State ICT Agency Chukwuemeka Fred Agbata (CFA), was selected by the US Consulate Lagos as part of the Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) Delegates on Cybersecurity, underscoring the Soludo’s administration’s commitment to delivering a digital Anambra, attracting collaborators and global attention.
Mr. Agbata is part of a 9-man Nigerian delegation invited to the Access Africa: Nigeria and Ghana Financial Sector Cybersecurity Reverse Trade Mission (RTM) organized by the US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA).
The US Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) is an independent US government agency that promotes economic development and US commercial interests in developing and middle-income countries. One of its key objectives is to link US businesses to export opportunities by facilitating partnerships and connections with overseas projects. USTDA is organizing the Reverse Trade Mission to foster collaboration between the United States and Nigeria/Ghana in financial sector cybersecurity.
From February 4th to 15th, 2024, Agbata, will represent the state government in engagements across Washington DC, New York, NY, and Silicon Valley, CA. The focus is on exploring groundbreaking opportunities in the cybersecurity and finance sectors.
During this mission, Agbata will collaborate globally with US companies, presenting the Anambra State Government’s cybersecurity objectives, initiatives, and avenues for collaboration. Beyond presentations, the initiative offers networking opportunities for Agbata and other participants to connect, exchange ideas, and explore partnerships, showcasing Anambra’s commitment to fostering international relationships and ICT innovation.
The mission involves visits to over a dozen organizations in multiple cities of New York, DC, and Silicon Valley, CA, respectively. Other members of the 9-man delegation from Nigeria include Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency, (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, Dr. Olufemi Adeluyi from National Talent Export Programme, NATEP, Commissioner, Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Tunbosun Alake, Director at Central Bank of Nigeria, Chibuzo Efobi, John Mago of Sterling Bank, Director, Infrastructure Solutions, Sterling Bank Oladejo Olawunmi and Chief Security Officer, United Bank for Africa, Plc, Romaric Sia.
