Vice-President Kashim Shettima has inaugurated an artificial intelligence (AI) training and outsourcing initiative in Jigawa State. This program aims to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in AI, blockchain, and other advanced technologies.
The federal government has partnered with Gluwa, a tech company, to implement this initiative. Shettima launched the program on Tuesday at the Yakubu Gowon National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Fanisau, Jigawa State.
In his address, Shettima urged the youth to embrace the initiative, highlighting Nigeria’s readiness to lead in modern technologies. “This is crucial for our economic future. We’re not just catching up; we’re set to overtake the world,” he said. “This program enables beneficiaries to join a global workforce and drive the innovation that will shape our future.”
Shettima praised the federal government’s collaboration with Gluwa, noting it aligns with President Bola Tinubu’s digital technology revolution agenda.
Jigawa State Governor Umar Namadi described the initiative as a rare opportunity for the state’s youth. He encouraged them to take full advantage of it, emphasizing the state’s abundance of ICT-savvy and qualified youth, thanks to the reputable Informatics Institute established over two decades ago.
Shettima Launches MSMEs Clinic
During his visit to Jigawa, Shettima also launched the 4th edition of the expanded national micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) clinic. He announced that President Tinubu had approved a grant of N150,000 for each outstanding MSME at the event, emphasizing that this grant does not need to be repaid.
Additionally, Shettima inaugurated state government-subsidized food shops, a solar-powered irrigation scheme, and solar-energy power installations at Dutse markets.