Nigeria is making news in the IT business with a new project that aims to teach 1,000 young people a year about artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technologies.
This forward-looking project is part of Nigeria’s broader National Digital Economic Policy and Strategy 2020-2030. The program aligns with the government’s objectives to be competitive in the global stage through the utilization of new technology.
AI And Blockchain Initiative Launch
Vice President Kashim Shettima spearheaded the inauguration of the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative during a recent ceremony in Jigawa.
In her address during the opening, Shettima underscored Nigeria’s mission and vission, and that is to not only catch up but transcend norms in terms of technical development.
AT LAUNCH OF BLOCKCHAIN OUTSOURCE/MSMES CLINIC IN JIGAWA:
Nigeria Poised To Overtake Other World Economies, Technologies – VP Shettima
* Announces FG’s N150,000 grant for each business owner
* Partners with Gluwa to train 1,000 tech experts annually
The Vice President,… pic.twitter.com/GfB2KwDmsH
— Senator Kashim Shettima (@officialSKSM) July 23, 2024
Malam Umar Namadi, governor of Jigawa State, called the programme a rare chance for young people. He encouraged everyone to enter the digital world of ICT outsourcing and reap its benefits, including job creation and economic growth
The initiative seeks to provide young Nigerians with the tools required to enter the global workforce and stimulate creativity, therefore establishing Nigeria as a leader in digital transformation throughout Africa.
This project is anticipated to build a nationwide network of tech hubs to be able to stimulate economic development and future innovation.
Image: ReadWrite
Financial Support And Strategic Partnerships
Apart from the training programme, Nigeria is enhancing its technical ecosystem by means of financial incentives and alliances with related agencies.
In addition to training, Nigeria is improving its technical ecosystem through strategic alliances and financial incentives. The government is working with tech startup Gluwa to teach 1,000 Nigerians in AI, blockchain, and other sophisticated technologies each year. This cooperation emphasises supporting local talent and a strong fintech environment.
Widening The Research Frontier
Complying with Nigeria’s dedication to technological development, the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) has bared its plans to set up research facilities concentrated on developing innovations.
Nestled among Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, these facilities will focus on important fields such artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, the Internet of Things (IoT), unmanned aerial vehicles (or commonly, drones), additive manufacturing, robotics, to name a few.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said that micro, small, and medium companies (MSMEs) will get a 150,000 Nigerian nairas cash incentive, which is equivalent to around $90.
The Nigerian government intends to encourage innovation and entrepreneurialism within the country’s technology industry by offering financial incentives to these economic pillars.
Featured image from ThoughtCo, chart from TradingView