Vice-Chancellor of Summit University, Offa, Kwara State, Prof. Abiodun Aibinu, has identified digital skills development among Nigerian youths as a critical foundation for the country’s emerging economy.
Aibinu made this known while delivering the keynote address at the launch of the Icitify Digital Skills Empowerment Foundation (IDSEF), held on Saturday at Trenchard Hall, University of Ibadan.
The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Chief Imam of the University of Ibadan, Prof. Ibrahim Uthman; African Action Congress governorship candidate, Chief Saheed Oladele, and his running mate, Jaye Tunlayo; as well as All Progressives Congress governorship aspirant, Oyedele Alao.
Speaking on the theme, “Building the Digital Future: Investing In Our Youth, Transforming Our Future,” Aibinu explained that the growing influence of digital technology and artificial intelligence requires young people to develop the capacity to use technology to solve problems, generate income and improve their communities.
“We have to move beyond teaching young people to use technology to empowering them to create solutions, earn livelihoods and transform their communities through it,” he said.
He further noted that digital competencies were becoming increasingly important as technologies such as artificial intelligence, data analytics and cybersecurity continued to reshape Nigeria’s economic landscape.
“Equipping Nigeria’s youth with real digital capabilities is the foundation for the next economy. AI, data analytics, cyber security is transforming how Nigeria works,” Aibinu added.
The vice-chancellor stressed that digital skills were relevant across different professions, noting that the goal should be to ensure every young person has the opportunity to acquire them, rather than expecting everyone to become a software developer.
Addressing the difference between access to technology and the ability to use it effectively, Aibinu observed that owning a smartphone does not necessarily translate into digital competence. He also cautioned that using artificial intelligence to generate answers differs from being able to assess their accuracy, identify errors and apply the technology responsibly.
He emphasised that young people expected to contribute to the future economy must develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, creativity and the capacity to adapt to changing circumstances.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Foundation’s Board, Dr Taofeek Akinola, described the launch as a formal step towards expanding the convener’s longstanding commitment to equipping Nigerians across different age groups with skills needed to succeed in an increasingly digital world.
Akinola noted that Nigeria has approximately 110 million children and adolescents, representing nearly half of its population, but converting this demographic potential into productive human capital remains a significant challenge.
“Nigeria has approximately 110 million children and adolescents, representing nearly half its population. Yet, translating this demographic advantage into productive human capital remains a major challenge. Too many young people lack the practical, digital and entrepreneurial skills needed to thrive in today’s AI-driven economy. Our challenge is no longer simply how to educate more people, but how to equip more people with the skills to create value,” he said.
He called on federal, state and local governments to expand support for digital and vocational training programmes, while encouraging businesses to invest in skills development beyond charitable donations.
“Beyond charitable donations, businesses should sponsor large-scale training,” Akinola said.
Founder of IDSEF and convener of the event, Mr Adelopo AbdulAzeez, stated that the future of digital technology would depend not only on the availability of devices but also on people who can use, adapt and develop technological solutions.
He explained that the foundation seeks to provide Nigerian youths with practical digital and technological skills regardless of their backgrounds, gender or geographical location.
“Investing in young people is an investment in the productive capacities of our communities and country,” AbdulAzeez said.
NASTV AFRICA
Manifesting Africa’s Greatness
