Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, revealed the government’s plan to create two million digital jobs annually, aiming to actively involve young Nigerians in the fourth industrial revolution.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, he emphasized Africa’s advantageous position in the technological revolution, particularly in AI and the Internet, given its youthful population.
With 230 million people, 75% below the age of 30, Nigeria sees itself as uniquely positioned to capitalize on the digital revolution.
Senator Shettima expressed the vision of Nigeria becoming the global outsourcing capital as the demand for workers rises globally.
He stated, “We can really take advantage of the digital revolution and rightfully take our place in the comity of nations.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment, he mentioned the $618 million I-DICE program, intended to generate two million digital jobs annually.
The Vice President underscored the potential of digital technology and the outsourcing industry, drawing parallels with India’s success in attracting foreign capital.
He pointed out that Nigeria’s highest revenue from crude oil was $35 billion in 2011, whereas India is projected to receive about $100 billion in 2024 from outsourcing alone.
Senator Shettima clarified that Nigeria’s presence in Davos aims at collaboration rather than seeking assistance, asserting that Africa is not poor but a rich resource capital for the world.
Addressing investor concerns, the Vice President assured that innovative solutions to macroeconomic issues, particularly in the foreign exchange market, would be unveiled in the coming months.
