In a significant move to accelerate digital adoption and boost economic growth, Globacom, a leading telecommunications company, has announced its ambitious plan to train up to 100,000 Nigerians each month in various digital skills. This initiative aims to reach a total of 1.2 million people annually, focusing on areas such as digital marketing, Python programming, blockchain technology, and artificial intelligence through its Glo Learning Management Solutions platform.
This announcement was made during a roundtable discussion at the launch of Nigeria’s Digital Economy Report by GSMA Africa in Abuja. The event brought together key industry leaders, including Dr. ‘Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman of the NCC, to explore the theme “Harnessing the Transformative Potential of Digital Technology for Nigeria’s Digital Economy.”
Bella Disu, Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to technological advancements. She stated that the Glo Learning Management Solutions initiative aligns directly with the Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy’s goal of developing 3 million technical talents by 2027 and increasing digital literacy across the nation.
Disu revealed that Globacom plans to establish four innovation hubs, starting with Lagos in Q4 2024, followed by Ibadan, Port Harcourt, and Abuja by Q2 2025. These hubs will serve as collaborative ecosystems for marketing enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, accelerators, and incubators to thrive and learn.
Emphasizing the global significance of digitalization, Disu highlighted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology could contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030, with Africa’s potential contribution estimated at $1.2 trillion. She stressed the importance of Nigeria harnessing the transformative power of emerging technologies as part of the fourth industrial revolution.
Disu noted substantial progress in various sectors due to digital platforms. Transportation and mobility services, for instance, have been revolutionized by companies like Uber and Bolt, with Bolt facilitating over 250 million rides in the past seven years. The e-commerce sector has also seen substantial growth, with the online user market reaching approximately 76.7 million users. Additionally, the number of POS terminals has surged from 155,000 in 2017 to 1.8 million in 2023. Remote working has also gained traction, offering lucrative opportunities for Nigerians equipped with the right training.
Looking ahead, Disu outlined Globacom’s commitment to advancing technology and education in line with the Ministry of Communication, Innovation and Digital Economy’s strategic blueprint. She highlighted two key initiatives: the establishment of innovation hubs and the extensive digital skills training program.
Disu underscored Globacom’s vital role in driving Nigeria’s fourth industrial revolution by enabling digital solutions and emerging technologies such as AI, robotics, machine learning, and big data. She reiterated the company’s dedication to fostering national economic growth and creating a promising future for Nigeria’s digital landscape.
“As an operator at the forefront of technological advancement, we see it as both a responsibility and a privilege to contribute to Nigeria’s digital economy,” Disu concluded. “We are committed to catalyzing a greater future for Nigeria and for Nigerians.”
