Google Nigeria says Internet provides tool for economic growth, social change

Affiong Osuchukwu, Country Marketing Manager, Google Nigeria, says that businesses in Nigeria will benefit immensely if local contents become more accessible through the Internet to the world.
Osuchukwu told the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos that besides business growth, social change was achievable through the same strategy.
She said: “If Internet users are able to access more of our local content, it becomes a good marketing strategy for businesses to reach their markets for those who are seeking local contents online.
“It is also a seamless way to drive social change when there are lots of local contents available for the youth and other categories of people who search online.”
NAN reports that in the course of the Google Nigeria research to assess what different Internet users wanted online, it came up with the Dalberg Report, which gives analysis of its findings.
The report looked at the economic and social advantages of achievement that were possible through Internet use.
The report said: “This report intends to help policymakers capture the potential of the Internet for social and economic development.
“It is to help them understand how their constituencies already use the Internet, where the opportunities lie, what future potential the Internet offers.
“Also what their countries need to get there.”
Stressing the importance of credible data for businesses, the report states the number of businesses and countries where its survey was conducted.
The report added: “Based on a survey of more than 1,300 businesses, including nearly 1,000 SMEs and extensive interviews with experts across Ghana, Kenya, Senegal and Nigeria, this report is beneficial to policy makers.
“They can have access to the data gathered on the social and economic benefits of broadband and Internet.
“It also uses extensive secondary research and qualitative and quantitative analysis to support policymakers in harnessing the Internet’s potential.
“Finally, it provides actionable recommendations across policy portfolios.”