Vice
President Kashim Shettima expressed his optimism and vision for the future
during a meeting with
a delegation from the Republic of Korea, led by the
Special Envoy to the President, H.E. Jang Sungmin, at the Presidential Villa in
Abuja. The purpose of the meeting was to explore potential partnerships and
collaborations in the field of technology and digital skills training.
In
his address to the delegation, Vice President Shettima emphasized the need for
Nigeria to tap into the vast opportunities presented by the digital world. He
revealed a bold plan proposed by President Bola Tinubu’s government to create
one million jobs in the digital sector for the country’s youth population.
Citing
projections for the future, Shettima highlighted the looming global talent
deficit, expected to reach 65% by 2030. Major economies such as the United
States, Russia, and Brazil were predicted to experience a shortage of six
million skilled professionals. However, Shettima believed that Nigeria, being a
young nation with 75% of its population below the age of 35, could bridge this
gap and supply the much-needed talent.
Recognizing
the significance of technology in driving economic growth and development, the
Vice President eagerly sought the partnership and support of the Korean
delegation in digital skills training for Nigerian youths. He emphasized the
need for the acquisition of relevant skills and knowledge to prepare the youth
for the demands of the digital era.
Drawing
inspiration from India’s success in the global outsourcing industry, which
earned the country $120 billion the previous year, Shettima emphasized
Nigeria’s potential to capitalize on similar opportunities. He stressed the
importance of acquiring the necessary technological infrastructure and skills
to foster growth in the digital sector. The Vice President expressed his belief
that the Korean delegation’s expertise and technology could be instrumental in
achieving this goal.
In
conclusion, Vice President Shettima’s meeting with the Korean delegation served
as a platform to outline Nigeria’s ambitious plans to create one million jobs
in the digital world. With a young and dynamic population, Nigeria aimed to
fill the global talent deficit and leverage the opportunities presented by the
digital sector. The Vice President sought the support and partnership of the
Korean delegation, emphasizing the need for digital skills training and
technology transfer to realize Nigeria’s vision of becoming a digital
powerhouse.
