Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria is not just catching up with the rest of the world, but also poised to overtaking them in terms of economy and technology.

He stated this yesterday when he launched the AI Expertise Blockchain and Technology Training and Outsourcing Initiative in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, as part of the country’s strategy for digital transformation and leadership in Africa.

The Vice President called on Nigerian youths to embrace the initiative, which he said, is important for the nation’s economic future. While in Jigawa, Shettima had earlier launched the fourth edition of the Expanded National Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Clinic, disclosing that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered that a grant of N150,000 should be given to each of the business owners in the state as the Federal Government’s support to MSMEs nationwide.

He explained that grant does not require beneficiaries to repay. He commended the partnership with Gluwa, stating that it aligns with President Tinubu’s agenda to revolutionise the nation’s digital technology sphere.

Earlier, Jigawa State Governor, Umar Namadi, noted the importance of the initiative, describing it as a rare opportunity at the doorstep of the youths. Explaining that Jigawa has a history with ICT education, the governor said the new initiative aligns with both the Federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda and Jigawa’s 12-point Agenda.