Innovation is a challenging feat. Sometimes, you solve problems for people who don't even realise those problems exist. That's why being awarded the Tech and Innovation Entrepreneur of the Year 2024 at The People-First Enterprise Awards is such an incredible honour and a reflection of the work we do every day at Nugi. While I couldn't be present to accept the award in person, my outstanding CTO and dedicated team were there to represent me and receive it on my behalf. 

I sincerely thank the Executive Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu, for providing an enabling platform that empowers us to deliver impactful solutions that improve the lives of our people in meaningful ways. I also want to thank the Director General of MEDA for his relentless dedication to supporting the growth of small businesses across the state. As Nigeria's economy steadily recovers, the Technology and Innovation sector is a critical driver of progress. A modern economy cannot rely on outdated manual processes. The future requires the implementation of digital systems that are transparent, efficient, and easily accessible to all. This is how we build trust in governance, bridge gaps between the government and private sector, and foster partnerships that create lasting impact.

Representing Me at the Awards.

The results so far speak volumes. Cross River's internally generated revenue (IGR) has grown significantly—from ₦22 billion annually to ₦31 billion in our first year, and in 2024, we have achieved an impressive ₦43 billion. Beyond innovation, we identified a significant challenge—power availability—that hindered productivity across key ministries. We provided ₦1 billion in funding to boost power infrastructure across critical offices to address this. This move ensured that systems, fans, and air conditioning units functioned seamlessly, improving productivity, particularly in ministries such as the Accountant General's Office and the CRIRS. The journey to reposition and uplift our communities has only begun, and we remain committed to driving solutions that create measurable change, one step at a time.

We don't need someone else to solve our problems; we must rise and solve them ourselves. We have identified key ministries and agencies that can drive the local change we need, including Lands, Carnival Commission, Lottery, and Betting Agencies. Together with our financial partner, Sterling Bank, we have committed 4 billion Naira to develop the Ministry of Lands. We aim to account for every landed property and its supporting documents in the state. When a registered land or house sells, the document will transfer electronically using the digital identities of both the seller and buyer, ensuring worldwide visibility and recognition of the new ownership.

We have completed the system's development and ramp-up work to provide backup power, modern systems, servers, and furniture across the Ministry of Lands and its clusters. These upgrades will deliver a cutting-edge land administration system that every citizen deserves. Our next focus includes significant investments in the lottery and gaming sector, improved waste management, and promoting our carnival to build a global reputation. We will also enable seamless payment systems to attract foreign participation from enthusiasts of our rich heritage across Nigeria and beyond.

A minified version of services for the Governor who gets to see real time data of everything, people, money, companies and everything critical to CRS sustainability.

Right now, you can experience one of these solutions yourself. Download My Cross River from the Google Play Store or MY CRS from the App Store. To celebrate this award with me, Use the signup code DOCAUSTYNE to receive ₦10,000 for data, call credit, electricity purchase, or even cash it out. 

APP STORE LINK: https://apps.apple.com/gb/app/my-crs/id6480014011

PLAY STORE LINK: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nugitech.mycrossriver.my_cross_river

Here's how it works: 

1️⃣ Use a valid phone number linked to your BVN and a working email address. 

2️⃣ Sign up, explore the app, and enjoy the services we've designed for you. 

🚨 Note: The code expires after the first 200 signups, so act fast! Comment below if you're lucky, and let me know what you think of the services we've created for you. Let's keep building a better Cross River, Nigeria—one solution at a time. 

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