Nigeria has set an ambitious target to train three million tech talents and boost its economy through a digital revolution. Led by Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, this initiative aims to develop Nigerian talent in Information and Communication Technology (ICT), harnessing their skills to earn hard currency and uplift the country’s economy and image.
The strategic blueprint released by the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy outlines the five pillars of knowledge, policy, infrastructure, innovation, and trade as the roadmap for achieving these goals. Under the knowledge pillar, the government plans to collaborate with industry stakeholders to train three million tech talents by 2027 and increase digital literacy to 70% among Nigerians. The aim is also to position Nigeria as a global leader in key technology areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Internet of Things (IoT), Robotics, Blockchain Technology, and Additive Manufacturing.
Dr. Tijani emphasizes the government’s commitment to talent development and plans to train 1.5 million skilled professionals from the local talent pool. Additionally, the initiative aims to create opportunities for another 1.5 million talented individuals to excel in the global talent marketplace, preferably through remote opportunities. This strategic project not only focuses on talent development but also aims to redirect local talents involved in antisocial practices back to the right path.
The second pillar of the blueprint centers around policy, with a focus on creating an enabling environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. This involves encouraging investment, research and development, and the protection of intellectual property. Nine priority policy, regulatory, and strategic initiatives have been identified, including the National Broadband Plan, National Policy on Digital Public Infrastructure, National Blockchain Policy, and National Digital Economy Bill, among others.
Infrastructure development forms the third pillar, addressing spectrum management and digital public infrastructure. The aim is to achieve up to 50% utilization of identified spaces for innovation and tech-related initiatives. The fourth pillar focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, and capital, aiming to provide a roadmap for harnessing the potential of these factors to transform Nigeria’s digital economy. Lastly, the fifth pillar strives to position Nigeria as a major player in the African and global technology ecosystem and enhance inter-African trade by 500% by 2027.
Dr. Tijani’s expertise and commitment to innovation and economic development are evident in his background. He holds a PhD in innovation and economic development from the School of Business at the University of Leicester. His doctoral research focused on understanding the adoption and adaptation of innovation in developing countries, offering insights into organizing innovation ecosystems in African countries.
Nigeria’s push to train three million tech talents and embrace a digital revolution sets the stage for economic growth and global recognition. By leveraging their comparative advantage in ICT, Nigeria aims to position itself as a technology powerhouse, attracting investments, fostering innovation, and creating opportunities for its talented workforce. With a comprehensive strategic blueprint in place, Nigeria is poised to drive its digital economy forward and make significant strides in the global technology landscape.
