Jambo Africa Online’s West African Editor, AFOLABI OSHO, reports on Nigeria’s plan to develop ICT skills that will help transform the country into a digital hub…
In a world that is increasingly driven by technology and innovation, the vision outlined by H.E. Bosun Tijani, the Nigerian Minister for Communication Technology and Digital Economy, is nothing short of audacious. The plan to develop three million technical talents in Nigeria by 2027 and position the country as a global technology hub is a commendable and forward-thinking initiative.
First and foremost, Mr. Tijani’s commitment to talent development is evident in the goal to train three million early to mid-career technical talents in the next four years. This is not just about numbers; it’s about equipping the Nigerian workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an ever-evolving technological landscape. By focusing on both tech-enabled and tech-adjacent skills, core tech competencies and advanced proficiencies, the plan ensures that Nigeria’s talent pool will be versatile and adaptable.
The holistic approach of retaining at least 1.5 million skilled professionals locally and facilitating opportunities for another 1.5 million to excel globally is noteworthy. This strategy not only benefits the individuals but also contributes significantly to the growth and competitiveness of Nigeria’s economy. It recognizes that in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR), mastery of key domains like Artificial Intelligence, Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Blockchain, and Additive Manufacturing is vital.
The emphasis on research and expertise in these domains demonstrates a clear understanding of the importance of knowledge in driving innovation, economic growth and evidence-based policymaking. Nigeria’s aim to be in the top 25 percent globally in research in these areas is ambitious but necessary to position the country as a recognizable player in the global technology ecosystem.
Furthermore, the focus on digital literacy is a crucial pillar in the vision for a digitally inclusive nation. Achieving 95 percent digital literacy by 2030 is an ambitious but necessary goal. It will not only empower citizens but also create the foundation for a thriving economy. Mr. Tijani’s commitment to achieving 70 percent of this target by 2027 demonstrates a sense of urgency in bridging the digital divide.
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rightly identified as a transformative force, and the plan to harness its potential is commendable. The goal to become a top 10 location for AI model training and talents globally is ambitious, but Nigeria has the potential to achieve it. The focus on inclusivity in AI datasets and readiness and adoption metrics is forward-looking and aligns with global trends in responsible AI development.
Data, as Mr. Tijani rightly highlights, is the lifeblood of the digital economy. The commitment to review and implement the Nigeria Open Data Policy, prioritize ‘data for good’ practices, and champion ‘privacy by design’ approaches is essential in ensuring that data is used responsibly for value creation and economic growth.
Overall, Mr. Tijani’s vision for Nigeria’s digital economy is bold and visionary. It sets ambitious goals to position Nigeria as a global technology leader. It’s a call to action for all stakeholders, from government to industry to academia, to work together to realise this vision and drive Nigeria’s digital transformation. With determination and conviction, Nigeria has the potential to achieve these goals and become a shining example of digital progress in Africa and beyond.