The Federal Government has intensified efforts to address youth unemployment and deepen Nigeria’s digital economy, as a member of the House of Representatives, Stanley Olajide, scaled up a technology driven empowerment initiative in Ibadan.

The programme, implemented in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), trained over 200 youths in digital marketing, cybersecurity, remote work, and tech-based entrepreneurship, alongside the distribution of laptops and start-up funding.

Speaking at the event on Friday, Olajide described the initiative as part of a broader national strategy to equip young Nigerians with relevant digital skills and reduce reliance on traditional employment.

He said empowering youths with practical knowledge remains central to sustainable development, noting that technology continues to shape the future of work.

According to him, about 210 beneficiaries participated in the current phase, with an additional 150 expected to commence training, bringing the total to about 360 participants.

Olajide added that the programme would be implemented in phases, with plans to run up to ten batches before the end of the year to expand its reach.

Participants also received financial support ranging between N30,000 and N50,000 to kick-start digital ventures, a measure he said was designed to ensure immediate impact and transparency.

The lawmaker stressed that the initiative represents a foundational step towards integrating Nigerian youths into emerging global technology ecosystems, including artificial intelligence and blockchain.

He noted that sustained investment in digital skills development could position cities like Ibadan as technology hubs, drawing parallels with countries that have leveraged technology training to address unemployment.

Olajide urged beneficiaries to utilise the opportunity to build capacity, embrace innovation, and contribute meaningfully to the evolving digital economy. (The Guardian)

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