Kwara State government during the week hinted at the importance of the digital economy as an opportunity for youth empowerment and sustainable job creation.
The Special Advisers on Media to Governor AbdulRazaq AbdulRahman, Bashir Adigun, while hosting students of the Senior Executive Course (SEC) 46 at the National Institute for Policy and Strategy Studies (NIPPS) Kuru, Jos, Plateau State at the Government House Ilorin, said that digital economy presents unlimited opportunities for youth empowerment and sustainable job creation.
“With the right skills and mindset, our young people can thrive in this new landscape, creating innovative solutions and driving economic growth,” he said, adding that Governor, AbduRahman recognizes the youth as the driver of development.
He said: “In other words, for us in Kwara, the youths are not leaders of tomorrow but our present leaders now at the forefront of driving the growth of the state.”
He pointed at the number of youths and women in government as confirmation.
“As a matter of fact, youths constitute overwhelming majority of political appointees in this state by deliberate policy of His Excellency.
Our governor has been recognized locally and beyond for this remarkable achievement.
“On assumption of office, our uncommon governor saw this and embarked on projects that will harness the potentials of the Youths. Just a walking distance from where we are, there is a digital innovation hub dedicated for tech startups, digital naturals and training of young people in different information technology programmes to equip them for global tech jobs.
“The first of its kind by any state government in Nigeria. We also have a digital dolby studio for Nollywood film production. The Governor observed that even when the world recognizes the Nigerian youths as major film producers in the continent, only few of these films make it to major film festivals like Cannes in France and Fespaco in Burkina Faso in West Africa, because of the poor quality.”
The guests commended measures by the governor towards the promotion of digital economy, youth empowerment and sustainable job creation in the state.
They gave the commendation at the end of their tour of some strategic institutions and facilities in the state.
During their one-week stay in Kwara (13th and 18th May, 2024) the NIPSS’ participants led by Air Vice Marshal A.I Adamu, visited the International Vocational and Technology Centre (IVTEC), Ajase- Ipo, Kwara State University (KWASU), Malete and Landmark University, Omu- Aran, amongst others.
