British government launches business intelligence platform through UK-Nigeria Tech Hub

BRITAIN'S government has launched an open-source business intelligence platform through its UK-Nigeria Tech Hub aimed at providing transparent and reliable data about the Nigerian technology sector.

Founded in October last year, the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub is an initiative of the UK Government Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport established with the aim of supporting Nigeria’s tech-ecosystem by promoting high-end digital skills and fostering partnerships between the UK and the Nigeria tech-ecosystem. Among other things, the business intelligence platform which can be accessed will allow users access to a comprehensive database of start-ups and tech hubs.

It also provides information on investors operating in Nigeria and access to a live investment tracker, showcasing all deals happening in the country. In addition, the hub will also allow users to crowdsource new entities/players in the Nigerian tech ecosystem.

People with profiles on the platform will also be able to update and edit their profiles as it pertains to their start-ups and companies and they will be able to gather digestible information on an interactive, real-time data visualisation dashboard. Funded by the UK Government’s Africa Technology and Innovation Partnership programme, the business intelligence platform aims at reducing the informational barriers to entry for companies, investors and researchers interested in doing business in Nigeria.

Nigeria remains a leader across Sub-Saharan Africa for vibrancy and volumes when it comes to the tech landscape and there is an increasing need to provide reliable and legible points of reference. This new business intelligence platform draws directly on data from Briter Bridges and leverages the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub brand and network to maximise inclusion and access to information about the state of tech in the country.

Speaking on the launch, Ben Llewellyn-Jones, the British deputy high commissioner to Nigeria, said: “The launch of this open-source business intelligence platform will enhance access to valuable information and data necessary for fostering partnership across the UK and the Nigerian tech ecosystems. This is a testament to the role the UK government can play in supporting the tech ecosystem in Nigeria.”

Leanne Jones, the team lead of West Africa Research and Innovation, added: “We are glad that the UK government’s Africa Technology and Innovation Partnership programme can support the development of this open-source business intelligence platform for the Nigerian technology sector. Access to this kind of information by all industry players will go a long way in addressing information gaps, identifying opportunities for collaboration and increasing access to funding.”

Lamide Johnson, the interim country director of the UK-Nigeria Tech Hub- said: “We are excited to have partnered with Briter Bridges to co-develop and launch the Open-Source Business Intelligence Platform, aimed at the providing tech- stakeholders across the board and easy access to information required to promote high-end digital tech opportunities.”