Sam Altman, the prominent figure behind OpenAI, made a significant appearance at an exclusive event held at the prestigious Muson Centre in Lagos, Nigeria on Friday, May 19, 2023. The event witnessed the presence of numerous tech executives, investors, and founders, creating an environment buzzing with innovation and entrepreneurial spirit.
The event was organized in two parts, beginning with an engaging Q&A session where attendees had the opportunity to interact with Sam Altman himself. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and anticipation as participants eagerly delved into discussions surrounding artificial intelligence (AI) and its impact on the future of technology.
Later, during the meet and greet session, Altman personally connected with attendees, fostering networking opportunities and inspiring conversations about the potential of AI in various industries.
Sudhanshu Gaurav, the Co-founder of Incash, expressed enthusiasm about the event, stating, “It was a remarkable experience. We are eagerly looking forward to integrating AI into our startup, anticipating a transformative impact on the African tech landscape in the coming years.” Gaurav’s sentiments echoed the sentiments of many who attended the event.
Reliable sources indicate that Nigeria served as Sam Altman’s sole destination in Africa, as he departed for Europe immediately after the event. Additionally, insider information suggests that OpenAI is actively seeking talented developers in the country, hinting at their interest in establishing a stronger presence and exploring opportunities within Nigeria’s vibrant tech ecosystem.
Altman’s mission in Nigeria appears to revolve around understanding the specific requirements of Nigerian entrepreneurs and companies. Olusola Ayoola of RAIN Technologies suggested that Altman’s visit aimed to uncover how OpenAI could address Nigeria’s unique needs and contribute to the local tech industry.
OpenAI’s visit to Africa may also be motivated by a desire to rectify past controversies. Notably, the company faced criticism for its treatment of Kenyan workers during the development of ChatGPT. This visit provides an opportunity for OpenAI to improve its public image and establish stronger ties with the African continent.