At least 2,475 unemployed youth across Oyo State have now been trained in digital skills through an empowerment initiative led by the Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Information Communication Technology and Cybersecurity, Dhikrullahi Adedeji Olajide, in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA).
The latest phase of the programme ended in Ibadan with over 200 participants completing a 10-day intensive training focused on digital marketing, cybersecurity basics, remote work, artificial intelligence and technology-driven entrepreneurship.
Beneficiaries were also supported with laptops and financial assistance to help them begin digital careers, online businesses and remote work opportunities after the training.
Speaking during the grand finale, Olajide said the initiative was designed to equip young people in Oyo State with practical digital skills that can improve employability, encourage innovation and reduce unemployment.
“This is not just a training programme; it is an investment in human capital development and economic resilience. The future of Nigeria’s economy lies in the ability of our youth to create value through technology,” he said.
The lawmaker explained that the programme goes beyond short-term training, noting that five digital training hubs have already been established in Ibadan to provide continuous learning and digital skill development for young people.
He added that the growing global demand for technology-enabled services has created opportunities for Nigerian youth to earn income remotely and build businesses within the digital economy.
Olajide also disclosed that the Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill he sponsored is already at an advanced legislative stage and would soon proceed to public hearing.
According to him, the proposed legislation is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s digital infrastructure, support innovation and attract more technology investments into the country.
A representative of NITDA, Mr. Eedris Faruk, said digital capacity development remains critical to improving entrepreneurship, employability and income generation among Nigerian youth.
He noted that participants received training in digital literacy, artificial intelligence and online business development to help them compete effectively in a rapidly evolving technology-driven economy.
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