By Onome Amuge.
Herbert Wigwe, the founder of Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe (HOW) Foundation, and Wigwe University, has highlighted the significant potential of Nigeria's creative and tech industries to drive innovation, create jobs and foster entrepreneurship, all of which are essential to diversifying the economy.
Speaking at a press conference promoting the upcoming Africa Creative Market and Global Tech Africa conference slated for November 2-7 and November 16-19, respectively,Wigwe noted that these industries have a unique ability to create value and drive economic growth, and should be leveraged to their full potential. He also stressed the importance of collaboration and partnerships, citing the joint efforts of the Herbert Onyewumbu Wigwe Foundation, Ascend Studios, Future Map Foundation, Wigwe University and NITDA to organise these events.
Wigwe highlighted the talent and potential of the Nigerian people, emphasizing the importance of empowering young people in the country's creative and tech industries. He noted that over 65 per cent of the population is under the age of 35, and called for greater investment in developing these industries to ensure a brighter future for Nigeria.
On his part, Kashifu Abdullahi, the director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), disclosed that Bosun Tijani, the minister of communications and digital economy, has mandated the agency to ensure that at least three million tech talents are trained within the next four years to support the growth of Nigeria's digital economy.
This, he noted, is in response to a global talent shortage, where only India is expected to have a surplus of skilled workers.
Abdullahi said NITDA is seeking the support of the private sector to deliver on this target, and is committed to creating jobs for at least 50 per cent of the trained individuals.
He said the training became necessary following the looming global talent deficit where only India will have a surplus, saying the gesture will give Nigeria the opportunity to fill the global gap.
The DG also noted that NITDA has developed nine policies in areas such as blockchain, AI, data, and broadband. These policies are designed to drive technological innovation and economic growth, and are awaiting implementation and review.