The Minister of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Olatunbosun Tijani, has called on Nigerian youths to leverage the vast opportunities in technology to secure financial independence and build a prosperous future.
Speaking on Monday at the commissioning of a solar-powered community ICT centre in Abeokuta, Tijani highlighted the Tinubu administration’s commitment to investing in the digital economy. The initiative, developed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), aligns with the government’s ambitious plan to train over one million tech professionals to drive the country’s technological advancement.
The newly inaugurated ICT hub sits on five hectares of land within the New Abeokuta City Hall Complex, a site earmarked to mark the 200-year anniversary of the Egba people by 2030. The centre, designed as a catalyst for innovation and learning, will provide young Nigerians with access to cutting-edge digital resources.
The project was made possible through the support of Senator Solomon Adeola, who also contributed a library and an administrative building to further enhance the learning environment.
Tijani emphasized that the government is establishing similar ICT centres nationwide, with 30 already completed and set to launch soon. He urged young people to take advantage of these hubs, stressing that tech skills can open doors to high-paying opportunities in today’s global job market.
“This is more than just an ICT centre; it’s a gateway to endless possibilities,” Tijani remarked.
“From university students at FUNAAB and Moshood Abiola Polytechnic to secondary school students in Ijeun and Lafenwa, this hub will equip young minds with skills in programming, robotics, design thinking, and digital entrepreneurship.”
Highlighting the demand for skilled tech professionals, Tijani noted that entry-level salaries in the sector range between ₦250,000 and ₦500,000, reinforcing the need for youth to stay focused and committed to learning.
The Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, praised President Bola Tinubu for supporting the development of the centre, describing it as a game-changer for youth empowerment and education in Ogun State.
Oba Gbadebo also commended Tinubu’s efforts in expanding educational opportunities in Egbaland, citing the recent approval of the Federal University of Medicine and Medical Sciences in Abeokuta. With this addition, Abeokuta becomes the first Nigerian city to host two federal universities, marking a significant milestone in its educational landscape.
The monarch further urged Egba sons and daughters, both locally and in the diaspora, to follow the minister’s example by using their influence and resources to drive the region’s development.
With initiatives like the Abeokuta ICT hub, Nigeria is taking crucial steps toward building a digitally skilled workforce. As more of these centres emerge, they will serve as launchpads for young Nigerians to break into the global tech industry and shape the nation’s digital future.