US Ambassador Unveils American Space in Nigeria

Mr. W. Stuart Symington, the United States Ambassador to Nigeria, at the weekend opened Nigeria’s first state-of-the art Priority American Space hosted at the Yaba offices of technology incubator, Co-Creation Hub (CC-Hub).

At the event attended by technology leaders, Ambassador Symington explained that the space, which is equipped with cutting-edge digital technology, is a center for Nigerians to develop innovative ideas, learn about the United States and its people, explore possible study at U.S. universities, enjoy U.S. cultural programs and also interact with U.S. exchange program alumni.

“At the Priority American Space in Lagos, we are investing in technology and programs to unleash the creativity of Nigeria’s burgeoning community of innovators. We are pleased to partner with Co-Creation Hub, a leading force for incubating social entrepreneurship and technological advancement,” Ambassador Symington said.

The Centre, now open to the members of the public, comprises a MakerSpace –– a tech area designed to promote digital skill building; a workshop space equipped with the latest laptops and tablets for internet learning; a conversation space for small group meetings and research and a meeting space that supports innovation and creative collaboration.

With a rich array of programs and trainings, the Priority American Space which is the tenth of its sort in Africa, will promote ingenious ideas, critical thinking and reasoned discourse. Worldwide, there are 67 Priority American Spaces. 

Speaking at the launch, Bosun Tijani, CEO of CC-Hub, said the social innovation centre aims to harnessing the intellect of the young people and enhancing their ability to build scalable businesses.

He described CcHub as a vibrant community of over 15,200 technologists, entrepreneurs and other forward thinking Nigerians and since launch, has incubated and provided support to a portfolio of over 55 early stage ventures providing solutions to social problems with technology.

He said that the American Corner at the Hub will further provide resources for young innovators to access in their quest to develop solutions to societal challenges.