Nigeria has unveiled a new initiative to train 1,000 citizens annually in AI and blockchain technologies, aiming to boost the country’s technological advancement and global competitiveness.
Points
- Nigeria’s government has partnered with Gluwa Technologies to train citizens in AI and blockchain.
- The initiative aims to develop a skilled workforce to support economic and technological growth.
- The government has announced financial grants to support micro, small, and medium enterprises （MSMEs）.
- NITDA plans to create research centers for emerging technologies across Nigeria.
Nigeria has taken a significant step towards technological advancement by launching an initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in modern technologies such as artificial intelligence （AI） and blockchain. This project, launched by Vice President Kashim Shettima in Jigawa, is a part of Nigeria’s broader digital transformation agenda and leadership goals in Africa. The initiative, supported by Gluwa Technologies Limited, aims to create a skilled populace that can drive economic and technological development.
Government Support for Fintech Development
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced a financial grant of 150,000 Nigerian nairas （approximately $90） for micro, small, and medium enterprises （MSMEs）. This grant is intended to encourage the growth of the indigenous fintech market and strengthen Nigeria’s technological base. Shettima emphasized that this non-refundable grant is an immediate cash intervention to support MSME owners.
NITDA’s Plans for Emerging Technology Research Centers
The National Information Technology Development Agency （NITDA） of Nigeria is also playing a crucial role. NITDA plans to establish research centers for new technologies, including AI, Internet of Things （IoTs）, and blockchain, in Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones. These centers will focus on important sectors such as unmanned aerial vehicles, additive manufacturing, and robotics.
NITDA’s Director-General, Kashifu Inuwa, highlighted the agency’s commitment to fostering a robust technology research ecosystem. He stated, “We are establishing a special-purpose vehicle that will look into these key areas and also establish research centers across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria targeting these six key areas of emerging technologies.”
Broader Technological and Economic Goals
Nigeria’s bid to become a technological powerhouse is further supported by various innovation and entrepreneurship programs. These initiatives aim to create a network of technology enclaves that will drive Nigeria’s economic development in the coming years. The country is not only focusing on training and research but also on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship to build a comprehensive technological ecosystem.
Conclusion
The AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative represents a significant stride in Nigeria’s journey towards digital transformation. By training citizens in cutting-edge technologies and supporting MSMEs, Nigeria aims to enhance its global competitiveness and drive economic growth. The collaborative efforts of the government, NITDA, and Gluwa Technologies highlight a comprehensive approach to building a technologically advanced and economically robust Nigeria.