Special Adviser on ICT to the Governor of Enugu State, Nnaemeka Ani, has issued a powerful call to action for Africa’s technology professionals, urging them to focus on building legacy-driven innovations that address the continent’s pressing needs rather than chasing trends.

In a statement released on Sunday, Ani rallied developers, entrepreneurs, and digital creators under the banner: “Africa will rise: By code, by courage, by us.”

“Let’s stop building for hype. Let’s start building for legacy,” Ani said. “Let’s stop waiting for someone else. Let’s start creating the future, on our own terms.”

He stressed the need for Africa to shift from being a passive consumer of global digital solutions to becoming a dynamic creator of technology tailored to its local realities.

With tech hubs proliferating in Enugu, Lagos, Kigali, Johannesburg, and Nairobi, Ani said the groundwork for a homegrown digital revolution is already being laid. What’s now required, he added, is purpose-driven innovation matched by persistence and a deep sense of social responsibility.

“Africa’s future lies not in flashy apps or international admiration,” Ani stated, “but in deliberate, community-focused solutions — those that digitise public services, bridge rural-urban divides, empower women and youth, and build resilience in food and climate systems.”

He emphasised that the continent has no shortage of talent, but needs to channel its technical capabilities toward projects that leave lasting societal impact.

“We have the talent,” he said. “Now it’s time to harness it — to stop building for likes and start building for lasting impact.”

According to Ani, this transformation requires courage, vision, and a united commitment among Africa’s digital pioneers. As more governments and innovators across the continent rally around legacy-focused initiatives, Ani believes Africa’s digital future will be shaped not by fleeting trends, but by meaningful transformation.

The message comes at a pivotal time for Africa’s tech ecosystem, as stakeholders increasingly shift focus from startup valuations to sustainable solutions that address education, infrastructure, health, and governance challenges on the continent.