Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that Nigeria is not just catching up with the rest of the world but is also poised to overtake them in terms of economic and technological advancements.
This statement was made on Tuesday during the launch of the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, Jigawa State, which is a key component of Nigeria’s strategy for digital transformation and leadership in Africa.
The AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative, a collaborative effort with tech company Gluwa, aims to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies. The program was launched at the Yakubu Gowon NYSC Orientation Camp, Fanisau, Dutse.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima urged Nigerian youths to embrace this initiative, emphasizing its importance for the nation’s economic future.
He stated, “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.”
Shettima highlighted Jigawa State’s pioneering role in digital technology adoption, describing the program as “a homecoming ceremony for those who have eased our journey through the Fourth Industrial Revolution.”
He outlined the federal government’s broader vision to adopt this initiative nationwide, aiming to create a network of tech hubs that will drive 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 sphere.
He acknowledged Gluwa’s significant impact, particularly their empowerment of Aella Microfinance Bank, which has led to the disbursement of over N100 billion to two million Nigerians.
Addressing the global implications of the Initiative, Shettima said, “Our aspiration remains to transform Nigeria into a premier destination for technology outsourcing, creating a model that combines global expertise with local talent.”
Jigawa State Governor, Malam Umar Namadi, also spoke at the launch, emphasizing the importance of the initiative and describing it as a rare opportunity for the youth.
He urged the population 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.”
Governor Namadi highlighted Jigawa’s history with ICT education, noting that the state has a large number of ICT-savvy and qualified youths, thanks to the reputable Informatics Institute established over two decades ago.
He stated that the new initiative aligns with both the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Jigawa State’s 12-Point Agenda, which prioritize digital technologies and innovation.
He announced the establishment of a new ICT & Digital Economy Agency to further position Jigawa State as a major ICT hub in Nigeria.
In a related development, Vice President Shettima also launched the 4th edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic in Dutse.
During the launch, he disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered a grant of N150,000 to be given to each business owner in the state as part of the federal government’s support to MSMEs across the country. Shettima emphasized that this grant is an outright grant and does not require repayment.
The Expanded National MSME Clinics is one of the federal government’s strategies for easing the business environment in Nigeria.
It involves organizing business forums across the country to provide on-the-spot solutions to challenges confronting MSMEs. Previous editions of the clinics were launched in Benue, Ogun, and Ekiti States earlier this year.
Speaking at the MSMEs Clinic launch, Senator Shettima highlighted the critical role of the MSMEs sector, noting that it represents 96 percent of all businesses in Nigeria, contributes over 45 percent to the GDP, and provides a livelihood for 80 percent of the workforce.
“We recognize your essence, and that’s why we are establishing MSME clinics across the nation. These clinics will act as incubators for small businesses and offer alternative financing. They will also ensure that you have the support and resources you need to compete and thrive,” he said.
Governor Namadi expressed gratitude to the federal government for the MSME Clinics and related projects, urging small business owners to take advantage of the opportunities provided.
He stated that the state government is aligned with the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda through the ‘Greater Jigawa’ initiative, which offers social protection services and projects for the people.
During the event, Vice President Shettima inspected exhibition pavilions by MSMEs and commissioned the Jigawa Retail Empowerment Shops.
He also commissioned a 10-hectare solar-powered irrigation farm at Sumore Farm in Madobi and the distribution of agricultural inputs under the NG CARES Fadama Programme, benefiting over 26,000 individuals, including a significant number of women.
Additionally, Shettima launched the Palliative Shop initiative at Yalwawa and commissioned a 120KVA Solar Plant at the Dutse Ultra Modern market, ensuring a minimum of eight hours of electricity per day during market hours.
In his remarks, Vice President Shettima reiterated the federal government’s commitment to supporting small businesses, emphasizing that their prosperity is crucial to Nigeria’s overall economic well-being.
He assured business owners that the Tinubu administration would continue to provide the necessary support and resources to help them thrive.
