President Tinubu Says Gifted Youths Key to Success, reaffirmed his Commitment to Digital Technology
By Ayshatu S. Rabo
President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to advancing digital technology in Nigeria, positioning the nation as a leader in the African digital landscape.
During a meeting with a delegation from Meta Platforms Incorporated, led by Sir Nick Clegg, President of Global Affairs, at the State House in Abuja, President Tinubu underscored the importance of leveraging technology to drive economic growth and empower Nigerian youth.
“Nigeria cannot afford to be left behind in this age of technological advancements. We have a vibrant, gifted, and resourceful youth population,” President Tinubu said.
Recognising that the future is likely to be AI-enabled, he added “we must prepare our youths to compete and participate in the global economy.”
Highlighting the administration’s 3MTT programme, aimed at training three million Nigerian youths in digital technology and essential skills, President Tinubu emphasised the pivotal role of Nigerian youth in driving digital economic expansion. “For us in Nigeria, Nigerian youths are our most critical asset. We are committed to equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in the digital age,” he added.
President Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s readiness to lead the African continent in digital technology, emphasising the value of data and the importance of collaboration for technological advancements. “We are open for business. We need collaboration that will be a win-win for all,” he stated.
President Tinubu further highlighted the significance of technology in supporting small businesses and fostering economic prosperity. “We need to make the business environment more conducive and profitable. I hope we can collaborate to promote our mutual interests,” he remarked.
Sir Nick Clegg thanked President Tinubu for issuing an executive order enabling the landing of the Meta-backed deep-sea cable in Nigeria. He highlighted the transformative impact of the cable on economic activity across the African continent, emphasising Meta’s commitment to deepening partnerships and empowering Nigerian creators through initiatives such as content monetization on Instagram.
Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, reatated the critical role of Meta platforms in Nigeria and stressed the importance of collaboration to harness opportunities in the digital economy sector. “Digital technology is an opportunity to connect Africa and contribute to global development,” he concluded.
President Tinubu Says Gifted Youths Key to Success, reaffirmed his Commitment to Digital Technology