Enugu State Governor, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, announced on Wednesday a partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) to annually train 40,000 youths in digital skills and ICT.
The programme was meant to empower, train and equip the youths with the use of modern technology skills to enable them to integrate into digital marketing, thereby phasing out the brick and mortar method of trading which is becoming old fashioned.
According to the statement, the government firmly believes that by equipping young people with digital skills, they will not only contribute to the growth of the state’s economy but also secure better employment opportunities.
The statement reads in part, “My administration will collaborate with NITDA to train and enhance the skills of a minimum of 40,000 youths in the state each year, empowering them to become significant contributors in the digital landscape.
“The announcement came during Governor Mbah’s meeting on Wednesday with Babagida Ajayi, representing NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa Abdullai, during their courtesy visit.”
“The Governor expressed a keen interest in working with NITDA to provide digital skills and information and communication technology (ICT) training to the state’s youth, enabling them to be self-reliant, generate wealth, and create job opportunities.
“He further elaborated on his government’s efforts to expose young people to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, mechatronics, virtual reality, augmented reality, robotics, fintech, and more, emphasizing that the state is eager to partner with the agency to achieve its goals.
“Governor Mbah assured NITDA of plans to equip young individuals in the state with fintech and cybersecurity skills, allowing them to participate in the global digital market. He stated, ‘We will provide them with the necessary skills to engage in e-commerce and establish a global market presence.
“NITDA’s Director General, Kashifu Inuwa, expressed the agency’s support and approval for collaboration with the state government to achieve its strategic objectives and vision. He confirmed, ‘The Agency headquarters has approved the establishment of its South-East zonal headquarters in Enugu State.'”
