The Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, has reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to leveraging technology as a critical driver of economic growth and a solution to youth unemployment.
Dr. Tijani delivered this assurance yesterday during the Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN) Summit 1.0, themed “The Rain of Transformation Is Upon Us: CEOs Arise,” held in Ibadan.
The summit brought together key stakeholders from the technology industry, government, and academia to explore strategies for positioning Oyo state and Nigeria as global leaders in technological innovation.
In his keynote address, Dr. Tijani emphasized the urgency of tackling youth unemployment in a rapidly growing nation. He highlighted Nigeria’s demographic reality, stating and urged youths not to be discouraged nor confused about politics while stressing that the government of President Bola Tinubu is aware that Nigeria is a country of more than 235 million people.
He explained that Nigeria’s population, which is currently growing by approximately five million people annually, is projected to reach half a billion by 2050. He noted that many people are unaware of this growth, adding that the average age of Nigerians is just 16.9 years.
Dr. Tijani also stressed the importance of youth empowerment and the role of technology in achieving economic transformation.
In his words: “The president is very keen on building a foundation that will set our economy on the path to prosperity. But these are difficult things to do without stepping on toes,” he said.
While acknowledging the government’s role in creating an enabling environment, he called on the private sector and other stakeholders to contribute actively saying: “The future that we see as a country is not going to be possible if we outsource the work to the government only. Government’s role is to build foundational infrastructure that will make things possible for a lot of people,” he explained.
He further emphasized the necessity of investing in technology, saying: “There is no nation that can develop without investing in technology. Technology is responsible for development, and we must continue to find ways to secure our future through such investments.”
In his address, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, represented by his Special Assistant on ICT, Mr. Bayo Akande, emphasized the state government’s commitment to continue to promote a tech-friendly ecosystem.
Akande highlighted some of the achievements of the present administration in Oyo state through technological innovations and how such successes have directly impacted governance, productivity, and economic growth.
Speaking on deepening a tech friendly ecosystem, Akande said: “Our government will ensure that the right policies are in place to encourage innovation and entrepreneurship especially among youths.
He emphasized the Makinde led administration’s efforts to enhance digital literacy and equip the youth with requisite skills necessary for the evolving job market.
He equally assured participants of Oyo State’s readiness to collaborate with tech stakeholders to unlock opportunities for growth and development.
The organizer of the Summit, Dr. Olusola Ayoola, emphasized the transformative power of technology, describing it as “not just a tool but the backbone of real development and progress in any society.
He called for collaborative and synergistic efforts among stakeholders to harness technological advancements for national development.
While outlining his vision of leveraging on technology as a bridge builder in creating opportunities, Dr Ayoola said: “We must leverage our collective expertise to turn challenges into opportunities for our youths.”
He added that the RAIN Summit 1.0 was a platform for exchanging ideas and strategies to position Nigeria as a global hub for innovation, and urged participants to network and freely interact for strategic growth and opportunities.
Others who spoke at the event include Hon. Aderemi Oseni, representing Ido-Ibarapa East Federal Constituency, Professor Abiodun Aibinu; vice chancellor of Summit University, and Dr Adesola Adeduntan; President Sequoia Financial Ltd., and former CEO of First Bank Group.