Ogun State government, in collaboration with GetFundedAfrica Technologies (GFAT), Microsoft, Google, and Meta, is launching the “Gateway Skills Programme” at OgunTechHub, Abeokuta.
The initiative aims to train 100,000 Small and Medium Scale Enterprises (SMSEs), particularly youths, in emerging technologies to enhance their digital marketing capabilities.
Senator Shuaib Salisu, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Cyber Security, anticipates that this empowerment will contribute to Nigeria’s economic revival. The state, he believes, possesses the potential to successfully drive the program toward its goals.
Mr. Dayo Abiodun, Special Adviser on ICT, highlights the deliberate effort of the state government to expose small business owners and young graduates to the hidden benefits of the digital economy. He urges beneficiaries to register, undergo training, obtain certification, and seize immediate working opportunities provided by the program.
Co-founder of GFAT, Mr. Adebowale Omololu, explains that the initiative prioritizes SMSEs and young graduates in Ogun, aiming to make them the inaugural beneficiaries before extending the program to other states. The goal is to offer necessary support for ICT career development, access to finance, and mentorship, emphasizing that the digital economy is a crucial pathway for entrepreneurial success.
He said: ‘’We chose Ogun State first among others because of the business-friendly atmosphere created by Prince Dapo Abiodun. So, a portal will be opened for interested SMSEs to register; we will take them through different training sessions, upscale their products and services to a tech community and help them to access grants from international and local partners.
“Also, job seekers will have direct or indirect opportunities, thereby promoting digital marketing that will in the long run, boost revenue and position Ogun State on high pedestal.”
