President Tinubu with Meta Platforms Incorporated team leader, Sir Nick Clegg, who is Meta’s President of Global Affairs, at the State House in Abuja on Thursday.
Tinubu promises Meta team Nigerian youths will lead Africa’s digital technology
President Bola Tinubu has affirmed his administration’s commitment to bolstering investments in digital technology to support small businesses, foster economic growth, and position Nigeria as a leading force in information and communications technology (ICT) across Africa.
He asserted during a meeting with a delegation from Meta Platforms Incorporated, led by Sir Nick Clegg, Meta’s President of Global Affairs, at the State House in Abuja on Thursday.
President Tinubu noted the importance of leveraging digital technology to empower Nigerian youths and prepare them for the evolving global economy.
He emphasized the significance of his administration’s 3MTT program, which aims to train three million Nigerian youths in digital technology and essential skills, equipping them for participation in the digital economy.
Highlighting Nigeria’s potential as a hub for digital innovation, President Tinubu expressed readiness to collaborate with Meta Platforms Incorporated and other stakeholders to drive technological advancements in the country.
He stated that there is a need for mutually beneficial partnerships that promote technological development and economic growth.
In response, Sir Nick Clegg commended President Tinubu for his executive order facilitating the landing of a Meta-backed deep-sea cable in Nigeria, describing it as a transformative infrastructure project that will significantly enhance connectivity and economic activity across the African continent.
Furthermore, Sir Clegg announced Meta’s plans to introduce a feature on its Instagram app in June 2024 that will allow Nigerian creators to monetize their content and generate income.
He emphasized Meta’s commitment to deepening partnerships in Nigeria and promoting digital innovation.
On his part, Dr Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, emphasized the critical role of meta platforms in Nigeria and the importance of fostering partnerships to drive development in the digital economy sector.
He also reiterated the government’s commitment to leveraging digital technology to create opportunities and contribute to global prosperity.