...To Partner FG On Digital Transformation
The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Youth Development, said it is set to partner with Google to empower Nigerian youth thereby expanding their access to global and local opportunities.
In the partnership, Google will make strategic investments in establishing a Digital Youth Academy, expanding digital literacy programs, and introducing key Google initiatives in Nigeria.
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, announced this collaboration during a courtesy visit by a delegation from Google, led by the Head of Value Education, Tanya Singh in Abuja, a statement by the Director of Information & Public Relations, Omolara Esan said on Thursday.
“This partnership with Google has become necessary to create meaningful impact for our youth. Relying solely on government funding may not be sufficient, which is why we are calling on NGOs and other organizations to rise to the occasion. This collaboration is a step toward realizing the vision of one youth, two skills under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu," he stated.
The minister highlighted the ministry's ongoing collaborations with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) and other relevant agencies to promote youth advancement through technology.
Tanya Singh, in her remarks explained that the partnership stemmed from a recent meeting between President Bola Tinubu and Google’s CEO in France.
She outlined five core areas of collaboration as; building digital infrastructure; human capacity development; economic diversification; SME support and entrepreneurship; and positioning Nigeria as a global talent hub.
“We’re focused on creating technology infrastructure that supports the government, businesses, and individuals in driving Nigeria’s digital transformation. Foundational to this is strong AI and tech infrastructure.
“Nigeria’s youth population presents a powerful opportunity. By investing in digital skills and tools for upskilling, we are collectively enabling the country's future growth.
“Beyond oil and financial services, we see immense potential in fintech, agri-tech, and health-tech. Our goal is to create an enabling environment for these sectors to thrive both locally and globally.
“Small and medium enterprises are at the heart of youth innovation. Many young Nigerians are building the businesses of the future. We aim to provide them with the tools and support to scale and compete globally.
“Initially, we asked how Nigeria could become the AI and tech talent hub of Central Africa. But we’ve revised that goal—why not position Nigeria as a global leader? We want to showcase Nigerian talent on the world stage and ensure young people have the skills to meet global demands.”
Singh stressed the need for sustained investment in skills development in the country.
“Across all five pillars, one truth stands out—we must invest in talent. Youths need not only skills but the ability to apply them in real-world contexts, whether in jobs or entrepreneurship.”