The Nigerian government is partnering with Google to support the country’s digital economy and create one million digital jobs. This commitment was made during a visit by Google Global Vice President, Richard Gingras, to President Tinubu at the State House. Tinubu praised Nigeria’s creative and talented young people who are motivated to learn in the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). He expressed his confidence in Google’s capabilities and tools, stating that they are essential for the success of Nigeria’s youth.
Tinubu stated, I am glad that Google is ready to partner with us. You have answered our call on digital innovation and to help our youths. You are supporting our efforts to promote the digital economy. We are ready to work with you on your commitment to create one million digital jobs in Nigeria. We will give you all the support you need to have a beneficial corporate responsibility.
In addition to supporting Nigeria’s digital economy, Google is also dedicated to promoting free speech, freedom of the press, and democracy through its platforms. Tinubu expressed his belief that it is in the public interest to defend free press and free speech, emphasizing their commitment to supporting a free society.
Richard Gingras, the Google Vice President, highlighted his organization’s interest in Nigeria and its willingness to support the government. He spoke highly of the creativity and talent exhibited by young Nigerians who embrace technology and digital tools to expand access to information and promote democracy. Gingras listed various capabilities of Google, including Artificial Intelligence and other digital innovations that empower young people to become digital entrepreneurs.
He also mentioned Google’s subsea cable called Equiano, named after Nigerian slave abolitionist, which landed in Nigeria in April 2022. This cable is expected to significantly impact future internet connectivity demands. Gingras assured Tinubu that Google would assist in securing Nigeria in the face of disinformation and fake news. He expressed the organization’s desire to continue its partnership with the Nigerian government.
Gingras said, We want to support the government’s efforts to create one million digital jobs. We have all the tools and capabilities to make this happen. We will also help to secure Nigeria, and we have discussed that with your National Security Adviser. We will continue to support your programs to expand your digital economy.
The visit concluded with a discussion between Tinubu and Gingras, along with the presence of Adewolu Adene, Government and Public Affairs Manager for Google in West Africa, and Dapo Olorunyomi, the Publisher of Premium Times. The partnership between Nigeria and Google aims to foster the growth of digital innovation and create opportunities for Nigerian youth in the digital economy.
