The Federal Government has launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Jigawa State as part of plans to drive Nigeria’s ambition to become an African economic powerhouse.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, who launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital on Tuesday, says that it forms part of strategy for Nigeria to attain the goals of digital transformation and take the lead in economic leadership for the African continent.
The Vice President, at the launch of the 4th edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprise Clinic, also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a grant of N150,000 to be given as a package to every business owner in the state. The grant is part of the packages by the Federal Government in supporting the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) across the country. It would be given as an outright gift to the recipients and does not have to be paid back.
Vice President: Nigeria’s investment in blockchain, AI ‘will shape our future’
Under the AI and Blockchain Training Initiative, 1,000 Nigerians would be trained yearly in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other emerging technologies in collaboration with Gluwa, a decentralised financial platform. The initiative which was launched at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Fanisau, Dutse, is expected to build a digital economy for Nigeria and prepare its workforce for global opportunities.
According to Vice President Shettima, it is something that would define the future economic growth of this country. “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.”
According to the Vice President, “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,”
Digital technology in Nigeria has been at the forefront. The country, in May 2023, adopted a National Blockchain Policy that would “serve as a roadmap for Nigeria’s adoption and utilisation of BT.” This policy, developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), places Nigeria at the forefront in the adoption of blockchain in Africa.
The AI and blockchain initiative is in line with global trends where AI is revolutionising sectors such as health, education, and regulatory compliance, and blockchain expands beyond finance into areas like land registration or supply chain management.
Malam Umar Namadi, Jigawa State Governor, used the opportunity to call on youths to “venture into the Digital World of ICT Outsourcing and reap all the benefits that it offers, particularly in terms of job creation and opportunities to contribute to the growth of our economy.”
The Governor also says that “the new initiative aligns with both the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Jigawa State’s 12-Point Agenda, prioritising digital technologies and innovation.”
He also announced the creation of a new ICT & Digital Economy Agency aimed at repositioning Jigawa as one of the largest ICT centres in Nigeria.
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