The Federal Government, in collaboration with a member of the House of Representatives, has trained about 210 youths in Ibadan, Oyo State, equipping them with digital skills and providing financial support of up to N50,000 to kickstart technology-driven ventures.
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The digital literacy and empowerment programme, facilitated by Stanley Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-West/Ibadan South-West Federal Constituency, was organised in partnership with the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA). The training covered digital marketing, cybersecurity fundamentals, remote work systems, and technology-enabled entrepreneurship.
The event took place at Dapo Aderogba Hall, located within the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) State Secretariat in Iyaganku GRA, bringing together participants drawn from across the constituency.
Olajide, popularly known as Odidiomo, said the initiative aligns with broader efforts to tackle youth unemployment while bridging Nigeria’s widening digital divide. As Chairman of the House Committee on Digital, ICT and Cybersecurity, he noted that his legislative focus remains centred on expanding access to technology and building capacity among young Nigerians.
“I serve as a representative and remain actively engaged in committees related to ICT, cybersecurity, and other areas of technology. Technology is not just a field for me; it is a passion,” he said.
“A key priority is how we can empower our youth, both men and women, by equipping them with the skills they need to succeed. This is central to everything I do, because the future of Nigeria depends on them.”
According to him, the programme is structured in phases to scale impact, with additional beneficiaries already scheduled for subsequent cohorts. He disclosed that while 210 participants were trained in the current phase, another 150 are expected to commence shortly, bringing the total to about 360 beneficiaries in the ongoing rollout.
“Regarding this programme, we have about 210 beneficiaries participating today, with an additional 150 set to begin next week. This will bring the total to approximately 360 participants in this phase. We plan to run up to ten phases before the end of the year; this is the second phase, following an earlier one held late last year,” he said.
Beyond skills acquisition, participants received financial support ranging from N30,000 to N50,000, aimed at enabling immediate application of the knowledge gained. Olajide emphasised that the funds were disbursed in cash to eliminate potential delays associated with digital transfers.
“Each participant is receiving financial support, between N30,000 and N50,000, to help them get started. I made it a point that these funds be given in cash to avoid any issue related to network failures or delays in transfers, ensuring transparency and that everyone receives what they are entitled to,” he explained.
The lawmaker described the initiative as a foundational step in a longer-term strategy to integrate Nigerian youths into emerging global technology ecosystems, including artificial intelligence and blockchain. He noted that while advanced technologies remain critical, building a strong digital foundation is essential for sustainable participation.
“We must provide young people with the right tools and knowledge to prepare them for what lies ahead. This training programme is only a starting point,” he said.
“We intend to build on it with more advanced opportunities, including areas like artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other emerging technologies. However, for these to be effective, there must be a strong foundation, and that is what we are laying now.”
Drawing comparisons with global examples, Olajide referenced India’s technology sector growth, particularly the rise of cities such as Bangalore as global innovation hubs, noting that sustained investment in digital skills could deliver similar outcomes in Nigeria.
“I often reflect on how countries like India addressed youth unemployment by investing in technology training, eventually transforming cities like Bangalore into global tech hubs. In the same way, we can position Ibadan and the state as leading technology hubs in West Africa and beyond,” he said.
He added that the broader objective is to equip participants with practical skills, entrepreneurial support, and the tools required to compete in a rapidly evolving digital economy, urging beneficiaries to apply the training effectively and build sustainable ventures.
