About eight months after the Federal Government and Wema Bank launched the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, the initiative is heralding a new era of digital empowerment and economic prosperity among the target audience – the Nigerian youth and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

The programme, unveiled on September 29, 2023, emerged from a shared vision to propel Nigeria’s digital future. With an ambitious goal to train two million Nigerian youths and one million MSMEs, the programme seeks to equip participants with a diverse range of digital skills.

Since its inception, the initiative has garnered significant traction, attracting over 300,000 participants virtually across all 36 states. And the overwhelming response underscores the pressing need for digital capacity development and highlights the programme’s relevance in addressing critical skill gaps in Nigeria’s workforce.

Central to the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme’s mission is the delivery of comprehensive virtual training and online courses. By leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative pedagogical approaches, the programme offers a diverse array of courses tailored to meet the evolving needs of Nigerian youth and MSMEs, enabling participants from all corners of the country to access world-class learning experiences from the comfort of their homes.

Through virtual training sessions conducted via digital platforms, participants engage in interactive lectures, hands-on exercises and collaborative projects under the guidance of expert instructors.

The virtual format not only facilitates flexible learning but also fosters inclusivity, allowing individuals from remote areas to participate and contribute to the digital economy.

At the core of the programme’s virtual training initiative are its online courses, meticulously curated to cater to the diverse skill sets and aspirations of participants. These courses cover a wide range of topics, including software engineering, product management, business analysis, cloud computing and digital marketing.

Delivered through user-friendly learning management systems, the online courses offer a blend of multimedia content, interactive modules and assessments to engage learners and reinforce key concepts. Participants have the flexibility to learn at their own pace, accessing course materials anytime, anywhere and on any device with an Internet connection.

The success of the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is not solely measured in numbers but also in the stories of transformation and empowerment witnessed across the nation. Participants like Stanley Onah, Ismalia Ahmad, Titiola Okusolubo, Najib Ashiru Abdullahi and Chukwuebuka Opoke shared their journeys and the invaluable lessons they have gained from this innovative initiative.

As a working professional, Stanley Onah has found immense value in the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, which has not only enriched his understanding of business but also enhanced his entrepreneurial acumen.

Reflecting on his experience, Onah said: “Sincerely speaking, this course has opened my eyes to venturing into any business without proper knowledge of the dos and don’ts in it. It has helped me improve in the business I’m doing now because I apply what I learned during the course, and the result is obvious.”

For working professionals looking to enhance their skills and advance their careers, the programme offers specialised tracks in areas such as digital marketing, project management, data analytics and cybersecurity. These courses equip participants with the knowledge and expertise needed to thrive in today’s competitive job market and drive organisational success.

For job seekers like Ismalia Ahmad, the programme has been a transformative journey of personal and professional growth. He said: “During my time as a student of the programme, I was able to develop the way I learn and interact with others to a degree that has also helped me mature into a better person.”

Emphasising the importance of interactive learning and collaboration, Ahmad highlights how the programme has equipped him with essential skills for success in his career endeavours.

Job seekers like Ahmad benefit from targeted courses focused on resume writing, interview preparation and job search strategies, providing them with the tools and confidence to secure employment opportunities in their desired fields.

These courses not only enhance participants’ employability but also empower them to navigate the job market with ease and professionalism.

Also, entrepreneurs such as Titiola Okusolubo have significantly benefited from the sales and marketing insights gained through the programme. Okusolubo, reflecting on her experience, said: “So far, so good; there are several lessons and experiences I have learned in the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation programme.”

From understanding customer needs to fostering collaboration between marketing and sales teams, Okusolubo acknowledged the programme’s role in enhancing her capabilities as a business leader and problem solver. Standing firm in its commitment to empowerment, the programme aims to empower entrepreneurs and aspiring business owners with a wealth of resources and courses aimed at fostering innovation, creativity and business acumen.

From business plan development and financial management to marketing strategy and customer acquisition, these courses provide participants with the foundational knowledge and skills needed to launch and grow successful ventures.

Navigating the complex landscape of cybersecurity, Najib Ashiru Abdullahi found mentorship to be a guiding light during his journey in the programme.

“Throughout the programme, I had the opportunity to be mentored by an experienced cybersecurity professional who provided valuable insights into industry trends, best practices, and career development advice,” Abdullahi said while reflecting on his mentorship experience.

The mentorship component not only provided clarity on career goals but also instilled a proactive mindset toward cybersecurity challenges.

Through practical case studies, real-world simulations and mentorship opportunities, participants gain insights into the challenges and opportunities of entrepreneurship, learning from seasoned professionals and industry experts.

Whether they are looking to start a small-scale venture or scale up an existing business, the programme equips participants with the tools and strategies to succeed in the competitive business landscape.

Funding opportunities offered through the programme have been instrumental for entrepreneurs like Chukwuebuka Opoke. Through the fund-raising campaign course, Opoke gained insights into attracting investors and managing business finances effectively. Expressing gratitude for the opportunity, Opoke stated: “This is the first time I’m getting an opportunity like this from the Federal Government, and it came without me knowing anyone or having any connections in government.”

By offering funding opportunities, including angel investment, venture capital and seed funding, participants can accelerate the growth and expansion of their ventures, validate business models and attract additional investors.

The FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme is committed to empowering participants holistically by providing access to funding, grants and loans to catalyse entrepreneurial growth, foster innovation and drive socioeconomic impact.

Through strategic partnerships and collaboration, the programme aims to equip entrepreneurs, job seekers, business owners and aspiring business owners with the financial resources they need to unleash their full potential and make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.

The FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme stands as a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s digital future, empowering individuals from diverse backgrounds to unlock their full potential.

Another standout aspect of the programme is the FGN/ALAT Digital Hubs, strategically located across Nigeria.

These state-of-the-art facilities serve as incubators for innovation, providing participants with access to cutting-edge technology, collaborative spaces and expert guidance.

Within these hubs, participants engage in immersive experiential learning, collaborating on projects, refining their business models and honing their skills under the mentorship of seasoned professionals. The hubs not only foster individual growth but also serve as vibrant ecosystems where ideas flourish, connections are forged and innovation thrives.

As Nigeria’s digital landscape continues to evolve, the FGN/ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme stands as a guiding light, empowering individuals through strategic partnerships and collaborative initiatives. The programme unlocks access to markets, connects participants with investors and accelerates the growth of budding startups.

As participants graduate, enter the workforce or launch their ventures, they become agents of change, driving Nigeria’s digital agenda forward, shaping the future of its economy to thrive in the digital age, and shaping a brighter future for generations to come.

Speaking, Wema Bank’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Moruf Oseni, said the innovative initiative is designed to revolutionise the way young entrepreneurs and employees interact with technology, entrepreneurship and skill development.

“The Digital & SkillNovation Hub reflects our dedication to fostering a thriving ecosystem that empowers Tech-Savvy Youth Entrepreneurs, Youth Entrepreneurs by Nature and Young Employees, driving economic growth and sustainable progress across the nation. This centralised platform will integrate cutting-edge digital tools, technologies and resources to streamline digital activities, collaboration and information sharing,” Oseni said.

He emphasised the pivotal role of the programme in bridging the gaps in Nigeria’s macroeconomic landscape towards national development.

“We are unwavering in our commitment to supporting MSMEs and with the FGN-ALAT Digital Skillnovation Programme, it’s all about the bigger picture — which is why we have partnered with the Federal Government of Nigeria to augment the scale of this programme’s impact.

“By tailoring this programme to suit the needs of both entrepreneurial-minded and professionally inclined Nigerians, we are not just arming SMEs for more efficient business management and growth, we are also equipping Nigeria’s workforce for increased productivity and the ripple effect will not only create more viable employment opportunities for Nigerians towards reduced unemployment and underemployment rates, but further drive economic growth and national development, boosting Nigeria’s position on the global playing field.

“The digital revolution is moving sporadically and by empowering our youths and MSMEs with in-demand digital skills, we are ensuring that Nigeria is not left behind as the world evolves,” he added.

Oseni added that beyond the intellectual resources and other non-monetary opportunities, “we are going a step further to provide financial support for these participants in the form of millions of Naira in equity capital, soft loans and grants, to enable them to put their learnings to practice and build sustainable streams of income that could help them become employers in their own right.”