Partnership with Google will turn Nigeria into global tech hub, says FG
The federal government says its partnership with Google is set to transform Nigeria into a global technology hub.
Inuwa Kashifu, the director-general of the National Information Technology Developmental Agency, said this in a TV interview aired on Thursday.
Mr Kashifu said the partnership was focused on infrastructure development, scaling of citizens, AI innovation, cloud adoption and investment framework.
He said the partnership aimed to create an ecosystem to power Nigeria’s digital transformation.
Mr Kashifu also highlighted the importance of data centres in driving the digital economy and the need to domicile sensitive data both for the government and the private sector.
He said that no data centre relied on grid electricity globally.
“Data centres go off-grid. They go green because they also need carbon credit. We are looking at that as part of the framework,’’ he said.
The NITDA chief said there was a need to upskill Nigeria’s workforce to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the partnership.
According to him, there is a need to embed digital skills in the country’s education sector from primary school to tertiary institutions.
Mr Kashifu said the partnership with Awari Technologies was not part of the conversation with Google.
He added that it was under a special purpose vehicle focused on developing a large language model in Nigeria, which would help to promote language and culture.
President Bola Tinubu had met with Google CEO Sundar Pichai in Paris to forge strategic partnerships to enhance the country’s digital transformation journey.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Agriculture
FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology
The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Faith
Kano pilgrims board announces N7 million as 2027 hajj fare
The Kano State Pilgrims Welfare Board has announced N7 million as the final hajj fare for intending pilgrims for the 2027 hajj.
Economy
Refinery: Lawmaker backs West Africa petrol pricing benchmark
Chairman of the House Committee on Petroleum Resources has pledged legislative support for establishing a transparent West African refined fuel pricing benchmark.
Politics
Kebbi to partner NIPSS as Gov Idris promises aid
Governor Nasir Idris has promised to assist the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, Kuru, Jos, in security and cultural heritage matters.
Economy
Anti-corruption: Senate summons Seplat Energy, Network E&P Nigeria, All Grace Energy, Aradel, gives 48-hour deadline
The Senate has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Seplat Energy, Network E&P Nigeria, All Grace Energy and Aradel Energy to appear before its Public Accounts Committee.
States
Anambra alleged drug dealers nabbed in Obosi: Police
Police recovered ₦598,400 in cash during the operation carried out by operatives attached to the Rapid Response Squad, Awkuzu.
Politics
Former Supreme Court justice asks political parties to foster internal democracy
Ms Augie also expressed concerns over politicians’ failure to maintain discipline within their ranks and then rely on courts to resolve avoidable crises.
