Nigeria wants to take global lead in tech with new initiative as part of its digital transformation strategy. This initiative aims to empower 1,000 citizens annually with skills in artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and other technologies.
While training 1,000 individuals in advanced tech skills is a positive step for Nigeria, it’s unlikely to be sufficient on its own to overtake global tech leaders like the United States and China, who invest billions annually in research and development and have vast tech workforces.
However, he assured that the new initiative would offer its beneficiaries the chance to become part of a global workforce and contribute to driving innovation that would shape the country’s future.
Outlining the federal government’s broader vision, Shettima said, “We are adopting this initiative across the nation to create a network of tech hubs that will power Nigeria’s economic growth for decades to come.
“Our aspiration remains to transform Nigeria into a premier destination for technology outsourcing, creating a model that combines global expertise with local talent,” Shettima concluded.
This latest initiative is one of the many programmes by the Tinubu-led government to build the nation’s capacity in emerging technologies.
Plan to equip three million Nigerians with tech skills by 2027
In 2023, the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy (FMoCIDE), unveiled a plan to equip three million Nigerians with tech skills by 2027. As the government commenced training for the 270,000 fellows selected for the second phase of the programme in May 2024, expectations are high among Nigerians.
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Also, earlier in July 2024, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced plans to set up research centres for emerging technologies, including AI, Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain, across Nigeria’s six geo-political zones.
Last week, the Vice President unveiled the Federal Government strategy to drive Africa’s digital trade revolution under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) framework.
These initiatives further underscore the government’s commitment to develop advanced technological capabilities in the country.
