Nigeria is going to train 1,000 young people every year in AI, blockchain
Nigeria has announced a government-led initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in various cutting-edge technologies, including artificial intelligence and blockchain, as it prepares to “catch up with other world economies”.
On July 23, Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative as part of Nigeria's Digital Transformation and African Leadership Strategy in Jigaga. As he did so he said:
“We're not just dealing with the rest of the world; We are ready to help them. This initiative gives its users the opportunity to become part of a global workforce, leading the innovation that will shape our future.
Nigeria has announced that it will provide financial assistance to boost enterprises.
The Nigerian government has partnered with tech company Gluwa to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in AI, blockchain and other technologies.
The country's President, Bola Ahmed Tinuyu, has announced a 150,000 Nigerian Naira ($90) grant for micro, small and medium enterprises to further encourage the development of a home-grown fintech ecosystem.
Preparing for world domination
The new initiative to train 1,000 Nigerians annually is one of the many efforts Nigeria has made in recent years to accelerate its development. Shetima added:
“We are pursuing this initiative across the country to create a network of technology hubs that will support Nigeria's economic growth for decades to come.”
In early July, Nigeria's National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) announced plans to establish research centers focused on new technologies such as AI, Internet of Things and Blockchain in the country's six geopolitical zones.
Related: Nigeria Begins Review of Its Blockchain Technology Policy
NITDA Executive Director Kashifu Inoue emphasized the agency's commitment to developing a strong technology research ecosystem.
The proposed research centers will target critical areas including IoT, blockchain technology, unmanned aerial vehicles, additive manufacturing, AI and robotics. Inua said:
“We will establish a special purpose vehicle that will address these key areas and establish research centers in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria, targeting these six key areas of technology.”
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