The Federal Government of Nigeria has launched an ambitious initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies. The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, unveiled the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative on Tuesday in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital as part of Nigeria’s strategy for digital transformation and leadership in Africa.
The government has partnered with private tech company Gluwa to drive the programme. At the launch, Shettima urged Nigerian youths to embrace the initiative, highlighting its importance for the nation’s economic future. He emphasized that Nigeria is not just catching up with the rest of the world but is poised to overtake them in technology.
Shettima praised Jigawa State’s pioneering role in digital technology adoption, referring to the programme as a “homecoming ceremony” for those who have facilitated Nigeria’s journey through the Fourth Industrial Revolution. He outlined the federal government’s broader vision of creating a network of tech hubs across the nation to power Nigeria’s economic growth for decades to come.
The Vice President commended the partnership with Gluwa, aligning it with President Tinubu’s agenda to revolutionize Nigeria’s digital technology sector. He noted Gluwa’s significant impact, particularly in empowering Aella Microfinance Bank, which has disbursed over N100 billion to two million Nigerians.
Addressing the global implications of the initiative, Shettima expressed aspirations to transform Nigeria into a premier destination for technology outsourcing. He envisioned a model that combines global expertise with local talent, driving innovation and economic growth.
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, highlighted the initiative’s importance, describing it as a rare opportunity for the youth. He encouraged the population to explore the Digital World of ICT Outsourcing, which offers numerous job creation opportunities and economic benefits.
Governor Namadi noted that Jigawa has a longstanding history with ICT education, citing the reputable Informatics Institute established over two decades ago. He announced the establishment of a new ICT & Digital Economy Agency, demonstrating the state government’s commitment to positioning Jigawa as a major ICT hub in Nigeria.
The new initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually is one of several government efforts to develop the country’s capacity in emerging technologies. Earlier this month, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced plans to establish research centres for emerging technologies such as AI, IoT, and blockchain across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, revealed these plans during the IoT West Africa Conference in Lagos. He emphasized the agency’s focus on building a robust technology research ecosystem, with research areas including IoT, blockchain technology, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV), additive manufacturing, AI, and robotics.