Vice President Kashim Shettima made this announcement, stating the goal of empowering one million youths with essential digital skills through these hubs. The decision to initiate the project came after a productive meeting between the vice-president and representatives of Wema Bank.
With the MSME digital hubs, the administration aims to equip the younger generation with the necessary digital expertise to thrive in the modern economy.
The statement read: “The centres to be known as FGN/ALAT Digital and SkillNnovation Hub will open first in Lagos and Borno states, with Katsina, Cross River, Anambra, Oyo, and Kano, to follow afterwards.
”They will be run in partnership with a leading financial institution in Nigeria, WEMA Bank. The strategic objectives of the programme include to empower young entrepreneurs by providing them with tailored financial products, training and support to enable them build sustainable businesses that will support the growth of Nigeria’s economy.
“Other objectives include: supporting tech-savvy youths with keen interest in digital innovations and aspire to drive technological advancements, by providing them with financial solutions, training and access to strategic partnerships; and empowering young employees to become an integral part of the workforce in Nigeria, especially those deployed through the NYSC.”
The vice-president said one million youths would benefit from software engineering, product design and other digital training, while 500,000 SMEs would be mentored on business development.
“FGN/ALAT Digital and SkillNnovation Hub, positioned to serve as a centralized platform to provide cutting-edge digital skills, mentorship and networking opportunities, is targeted at tech-savvy youths and young entrepreneurs in Nigeria.
“The focus is on promoting entrepreneurship, skills development and the integration of young employees in the workforce, particularly getting one million youths employed in the digital economy and upskilling SMEs who can directly add value to the country’s economy.