The Federal Government has said it was working to bridge the knowledge gap in skilled and certified technicians.
Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, said it was worrisome that the country spends billions of dollars yearly to import skilled and certified technicians.
He made the disclosure when he visited Computer Village, Ikeja, Lagos.
The minister lamented the dearth of skilled and certified craftsmen and technicians in the various sectors of the economy.
Nnaji acknowledged that “there are many talented technicians across the country, but those are not certified according to international best practices, making them lose job opportunities to skilled and certified craftsmen and technicians from other countries, especially when the hiring company is multinational.”
He continued: “Being talented is one thing, but multinational companies go for skilled workers with requisite trade test qualifications and international certifications.
“I come here with a message of hope from our President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as his administration works hard to resolve the various problems facing Nigeria, including unemployment and underemployment.”
He added that the Federal Government was working towards creating a Tech Ecosystem of international standard “to equip Nigerians with necessary skills and opportunities in the technology-driven world of today.”
Earlier in his welcome speech, President of Computer Village Traders Union, Anthony Nwakaeze, lauded the minister for carrying all stakeholders along.
