Tajudeen Abbas Calls For Investment In ICT To Empower Youths

The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen, has emphasized the need for investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education and infrastructure to empower young Nigerians with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in the digital economy.

He stated this in Abuja while declaring open a public hearing on a bill to establish the Federal Institute of Information Technology in Idanre, Ondo State.

Represented by the Deputy Chief Whip, Ibrahim Isiaka, Dr Abbas also noted, this will enable them to compete globally and contribute to the country’s economy, stressing that the digital economy is rapidly evolving and Nigeria must keep pace to remain competitive.

The Speaker also highlighted the potential of ICT to drive innovation, entrepreneurship, and job creation in Nigeria stressing that investing in ICT education will help address the country’s unemployment challenge and promote economic diversification.

Speaking on the proposed legislation, the Speaker said if passed, it would serve as a strong response to the challenges of unemployment and social discontent

Also speaking, Chairman of the House Committee on Digital and Information .

Olajide noted that the objective of the hearing was to gather expert input and public opinion to guide the legislative process.

“This is also an opportunity for citizens to actively participate in shaping laws that affect their lives,” he said.

The sponsor of the bills, Festus Akingbaso member representing Idanre Federal Constituency, Ondo State, stated that the goal was to bring Nigeria in line with global standards in technology development.

He said the proposed institute would create jobs and contribute meaningfully to the country’s economic advancement.

In his remarks, the Director General of the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA, Mr. Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting digital literacy across Nigeria.

Represented by Emmanuel Edet, Programme Manager at NITDA, Abdullahi expressed the agency’s full support for the bill, which he said aligns with NITDA’s mandate to advance technology and digital development nationwide.

Oduyemi Odumade