CurrentReport Blog The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Olatunbosun Tijani, has called on Nigerian youths to take advantage of the numerous opportunities in technology to achieve financial independence and create a stable future for themselves. He made this statement on Monday at the commissioning of a solar-powered Community ICT Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, a project facilitated by him and developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
Speaking at the event, Tijani emphasized the Nigerian government’s commitment to empowering the nation’s large youth population by investing in the digital economy. He noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is focused on equipping young Nigerians with the necessary tools and skills to drive economic growth and innovation, particularly in the technology sector.
Empowering the Youth through Technology
Tijani, in his address, highlighted the importance of technology as a key driver for financial empowerment and sustainable development. He urged young Nigerians to seize the opportunities offered by the digital age, particularly in fields like programming, robotics, design thinking, and digital entrepreneurship.
He remarked, “When we talk about this Community ICT Centre, we are not just cutting a ribbon; we are opening doors. We are expanding horizons for young people who, just like I was, are full of energy, full of questions, and full of potential.”
The Community ICT Centre, located on a five-hectare land within the new Abeokuta City Hall Complex, is part of a broader initiative to commemorate the 200-year anniversary of the Egba people by 2030. The centre is set to become a hub for technological education and innovation for the Abeokuta community and beyond.
The centre includes several modern facilities such as a library and administrative building. It was made possible through the generous support of Senator Solomon Adeola, who represents Ogun West Senatorial District. The senator’s contribution to this project underscores his commitment to fostering youth empowerment and academic achievement in Ogun State.
The Push for Digital Economy and Skill Development
Tijani also touched on the Tinubu administration’s broader vision to develop over one million tech professionals in Nigeria. He reiterated that the government is actively working to create more digital hubs and ICT centres across the country. According to the Minister, about 30 additional ICT centres are already completed and scheduled to be commissioned in the coming months.
“These centres are not just about infrastructure; they are about creating an ecosystem where young people can thrive and develop the skills necessary to succeed in the global digital economy,” he added.
The government’s investment in technology aims to bridge the gap between Nigeria’s vast youth population and the job market, offering a path for them to develop critical digital skills that are in high demand globally. Tijani encouraged young Nigerians to stay focused on these opportunities, noting that there is a growing need for tech professionals worldwide, with competitive starting salaries ranging between N250,000 and N500,000.
A Significant Contribution to Egbaland’s Educational Growth
During the event, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, commended the efforts of the Tinubu administration for facilitating the construction of the ICT centre in Abeokuta. The monarch praised the government’s commitment to advancing education and empowering the youth, which he believes will contribute significantly to academic achievement in ICT both in Ogun State and across the nation.
Oba Gbadebo also mentioned other recent developments that signal the beginning of a new era for Egbaland. Notably, President Tinubu recently appointed principal officers and members of the governing board for the newly authorized Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Abeokuta. With this development, the state capital will become the first in Nigeria to host two federal universities in the same location.
Encouraging Continued Development in Egbaland
In his closing remarks, Oba Gbadebo urged other Egba sons and daughters, both at home and abroad, to follow the example set by Minister Tijani. He called on them to use their influence and resources to support the development of Egbaland and Ogun State as a whole.
The inauguration of the Abeokuta Community ICT Centre marks an important milestone in Nigeria’s push to harness the potential of technology for economic growth and youth empowerment. As more ICT hubs are built across the country, the future looks promising for young Nigerians seeking to carve out a successful career in the digital economy.
