Nigeria has started a program to train 1,000 people yearly in cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence and blockchain. The goal is for Nigeria to become a leader in the global economy. Kashim Shettima, Nigeria’s Vice President, launched this initiative on July 23 in Jigawa City as part of Nigeria’s plan to transform digitally and lead in technology across Africa, he futher added
“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.”
Nigeria has announced financial support to help businesses grow.
The Nigerian government partnered with Gluwa, a tech company, to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other technologies.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also announced a grant of 150,000 Nigerian nairas (about $90) to small businesses to help them grow in the fintech sector.
The new program to train 1,000 Nigerians annually is part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to speed up development. 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.”
Earlier this month, Nigeria’s National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) revealed plans to create research centers for new technologies such as AI, the Internet of Things (IoT), and blockchain in all six regions of the country.
NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, emphasized the agency’s focus on developing a strong technology research network.
The new research centers will concentrate on key areas like IoT, blockchain, UAVs, additive manufacturing, AI, and robotics. Inuwa added
“We are establishing a special-purpose vehicle that will look into these key areas and also establish research centers across the six geo-political zones of Nigeria that will be targeting these six key areas of emerging technologies.”
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