Shettima commends Google’s N1.2 billion grant to Nigeria

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has commended Google’s grant of N1.2 billion toward the Tinubu administration’s one million jobs initiative.

Senator Shettima conveyed his commendation during a meeting with Google executives held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Tuesday.

In a statement released by his office, the Vice President praised the significant contribution made by Google to support the digital jobs initiative championed by the Tinubu administration.

The VP lauded Google’s efforts and encouraged other companies to consider following suit.

ALSO READ

• Tinubu to support Google in creating 1 million jobs in Nigeria 
• Google selects 15 startups in Nigeria, 6 others for Accelerator Africa
• Students loan scheme begins 2023/2024 academic session – FG

In the VP’s words, “Let’s think outside the box and create more job opportunities. We need to walk the talk. It is easy to pontificate but very difficult to bring all of the ideas to fruition. I want to assure you, this administration is ready to partner with you.”

“Nigeria is ready for business. The President that we have now wants to leave a legacy that Nigerians will be proud of many years after.”

“We have a unique opportunity to harness the potentials of our huge youth population to create millions of jobs in the digital sector,” he added.

“We have more English-speaking people than many countries in Africa and beyond. We missed the agricultural age, we missed the industrial age and we are now in the knowledge-driven post-industrial age. We have the potential and a unique opportunity to fill the anticipated global talent deficit.”

“Access Bank is doing a lot in terms of digital skills, training 1000 youths in digital skills to create employment opportunities. We are working with Wema Bank, the Bank of Industry, and other partners on this project. We are willing to partner with Google, we will work closely with you for the good of our nation,” he further said.

In his initial statement, Mr. Olumide Balogun, Director of Google West Africa, expressed enthusiasm for the Tinubu administration’s aspiration to establish one million digital jobs.

He said Google is dedicating more than N1.2 billion in grants to back this initiative.

He said the program aims to equip over 20,000 young people and women with digital skills, enhancing their lives, boosting startups, and generating numerous jobs in the sector.

Meanwhile, Charles Murito, Google Africa’s Director of Government Relations and Public Policy, emphasized the company’s dedication to investing in digital infrastructure throughout Africa.

He highlighted that digital transformation across the continent has the potential to drive targeted technology jobs.

Murito emphasized Africa’s potential, stating that Google’s vision and objectives require comprehensive coverage in Nigeria.