The vice president of the federal republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima has made the revelations that Nigeria is not just struggling to catch up with the global economy, but it is also poised to take over it.
He announced this on Tuesday when he presented the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, Jigawa.
The program was launched at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Fanisau, a suburb of Dutse, it has been described to be part of Nigeria’s vision for digital transformation and leadership in Africa.
In collaboration with the IT company Gluwa, the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative seeks to provide training in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies to 1,000 Nigerians every year.
Shettima emphasized that the effort is crucial for the future economic prosperity of the country, and he asked the youth to support this initiative.
“We are not merely catching up with the rest of the world; we are poised to overtake them.
“This initiative offers its beneficiaries the chance to become part of a global workforce, driving innovation that will shape our future,” he said.
Shettima outlined the federal government’s bigger vision, saying, “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.”
He acknowledged the pioneering role played by Jigawa state in the adoption of digital technology and called the program “a homecoming ceremony for those who have eased our journey through the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”
He complimented the collaboration with Gluwa, stating that it is in alignment with President Tinubu’s goal to transform Nigeria’s digital technology space.
Shettima, who recognized Gluwa’s noteworthy influence, praised the company for enabling Aella Microfinance Bank.
He claimed that as a result of the empowerment, two million Nigerians received payments totaling more than N100 billion.
On global implications of the initiative, Shettima said: “Our aspiration remains to transform Nigeria into a premier destination for technology outsourcing. Creating a model that combines global expertise with local talent.”
Governor Umar Namadi had earlier expressed his appreciation for the initiative and called it a unique chance that is right at the doorstep of young people. He encouraged them to take advantage of this potential by diving into the digital realm of ICT outsourcing.
Particularly in terms of job creation and opportunities to contribute to the growth of our economy. Jigawa has a history with ICT education.
”The state is blessed with hundreds of thousands of ICT-savvy and qualified youths in various fields of information and communication technology.
“This is courtesy of our very reputable Informatics Institute, established more than two decades ago, the governor stated.
Prioritizing innovation and digital technologies, he said the new program is in line with Jigawa State’s 12-Point Agenda and the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Along with the announcement that a new ICT and Digital Economy Agency will be established in the state, Namadi stated that Jigawa State is set to become a key ICT hub in Nigeria, “more than ever before.”
