No fewer than 210 youths in Oyo State have received hands-on training in digital marketing, cybersecurity fundamentals, remote work, and tech-driven entrepreneurship under a Federal Government-backed initiative aimed at tackling unemployment and bridging the digital divide.
The programme, facilitated by a lawmaker representing Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, Stanley Olajide, in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), took place at the NUJ Secretariat in Iyaganku, Ibadan.
Speaking at the event, Olajide—popularly known as Odidiomo—said the initiative aligns with his vision of transforming Ibadan into a leading technology hub in the South-West. He noted that empowering young people with relevant digital skills remains central to national development.
According to him, the training is part of a phased programme designed to reach more beneficiaries across the state. While 210 participants took part in the current phase, an additional 150 youths are expected to commence training in the coming week, bringing the total to about 360 beneficiaries. He added that up to ten phases are planned before the end of the year.
Beyond skills acquisition, participants were also given financial support ranging from N30,000 to N50,000 to kickstart digital ventures. Olajide explained that the cash disbursement was deliberately structured to ensure transparency and avoid delays associated with electronic transfers.
He described the initiative as a foundational step toward integrating Nigerian youths into global technology ecosystems, including emerging fields such as artificial intelligence and blockchain. He stressed the importance of building a solid digital foundation before advancing into more complex tech domains.
Drawing parallels with global success stories, Olajide referenced India’s transformation through sustained investment in technology training, noting that similar strategies could position Ibadan and Oyo State as innovation hubs in West Africa.
The lawmaker urged participants to fully utilize the knowledge and resources provided, emphasizing that the programme aims to equip them with practical skills, entrepreneurial support, and the tools needed to compete in an evolving digital economy.
Also speaking, NITDA representative Eedris Faruk highlighted that the training covered key areas such as digital literacy, artificial intelligence, responsible use of online platforms, and setting up online businesses—skills he said are critical for driving education, entrepreneurship, and employment in today’s digital age.
