Nigeria’s burgeoning digital economy stands at a critical juncture, poised for significant growth but hampered by a widening digital skills gap. This chasm, according to the Chairman of the Sector Skills Council for Information and Communications Technology, Mr. Shola Oshilaja, could cost the nation an estimated $11 billion annually in lost economic opportunities. The rapid advancements in technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), 5G, the Internet of Things (IoT), and Cybersecurity are reshaping the global workplace, demanding a workforce equipped with the necessary skills to navigate this evolving landscape. The challenge lies in preparing Nigeria’s workforce not just for the current market demands but also for the anticipated transformations of the future. Addressing this challenge requires a multi-faceted approach encompassing policy reforms, educational interventions, and strategic partnerships.
The World Economic Forum projects that by 2027, AI adoption will surge across global companies, leading to a significant shift in the employment landscape. While an estimated 85 million jobs may be displaced, 97 million new roles are expected to emerge. This projected transformation underscores the urgency of equipping Nigeria’s workforce with the skills needed to thrive in this evolving environment. This includes embedding fundamental digital skills such as coding, cybersecurity, digital marketing, and AI principles into the secondary school curriculum, laying the groundwork for a digitally literate generation. Further, institutionalizing work-based learning through mandatory internships and apprenticeships can bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, preparing graduates for real-world challenges.
A crucial step towards achieving this digital transformation is the establishment of a National ICT Skills Framework. This framework, aligned with international standards and guided by the Sector Skills Council, would provide a standardized roadmap for skills development, ensuring consistency and quality across the nation. Complementing this framework, government agencies must align their policies and regulations to support skills development initiatives, fostering a cohesive ecosystem for digital growth. Incentives for companies investing in digital training programs would further encourage private sector participation, creating a collaborative effort to upskill the workforce.
In a promising development, the Federal Government has unveiled an ambitious initiative to train five million Nigerian workers in AI over the next three years. This program, spanning both public and private sectors, enjoys the support of key figures including President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and the Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC. This commitment highlights the government’s recognition of the importance of AI proficiency in driving economic growth and securing Nigeria’s position in the global digital landscape. This initiative signifies a critical step towards bridging the digital skills gap and preparing the nation for the future of work.
The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), an agency under the Nigerian Communications Commission, plays a pivotal role in this transformative journey. Established as a center of excellence for ICT training, the DBI has faced challenges in the past, including financial difficulties and infrastructural deterioration. However, the institute has demonstrated resilience, bouncing back with renewed focus and determination. Its recent achievements, including partnerships with training organizations, the launch of a Global Training Partner Programme, and the commissioning of an Information Access Centre, underscore its commitment to empowering individuals with the digital skills needed to succeed. The DBI’s 21st-anniversary celebration themed “Preparing Today’s Workforce for Tomorrow’s Market” aptly captures the institute’s mission and the nation’s urgent need for a digitally skilled workforce.
The path to a thriving digital economy requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders. Government agencies, educational institutions, private sector companies, and individuals must work together to create a robust ecosystem for skills development. By investing in education, fostering innovation, and embracing continuous learning, Nigeria can unlock its full potential in the digital age and secure a prosperous future for its citizens. The $11 billion potential loss represents not just a financial setback but a missed opportunity for human capital development and national progress. Addressing the digital skills gap is therefore not just an economic imperative but a social responsibility, essential for ensuring inclusive growth and a brighter future for all Nigerians.
