Shettima launches AI training initiative in Jigawa, announces N150k grant for SMEs

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has launched an artificial intelligence (AI) training and outsourcing initiative in Jigawa state.

The initiative is expected to train 1,000 Nigerians annually in artificial intelligence, blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies.

The federal government partnered Gluwa, a tech company, for the implementation of the initiative.

Shettima unveiled the initiative on Tuesday at the Yakubu Gowon National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Fanisau, Jigawa state.

Speaking at the event, the vice-president told the youths to embrace the initiative, adding that Nigeria is ready to “overtake” the world in modern technologies.

“It is important for the nation’s economic future. We are not merely catching up with the rest of the world; we are poised to overtake them,” Shettima said.

“This initiative offers its beneficiaries the chance to become part of a global workforce, driving innovation that will shape our future.

“We are adopting this initiative across the nation to create a network of tech hubs that will power Nigeria’s economic growth for decades to come.”

The vice-president commended the federal government’s partnership with Gluwa, adding that it aligns with the digital technology revolution agenda of President Bola Tinubu.

On his part, Umar Namadi, governor of Jigawa, said it is a “rare opportunity” for the youths in the state to have the initiative at their doorsteps.

Namadi told the youths to embrace the initiative to reap the benefits.

“The state is blessed with hundreds of thousands of ICT-savvy and qualified youths in various fields of information and communication technology,” the governor said.

“This is courtesy of our very reputable Informatics Institute established more than two decades ago.”

SHETTIMA LAUNCHES MSMEs CLINIC

Shettima also launched the 4th edition of the expanded national micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) clinic during his visit to Jigawa.

The vice-president said Tinubu had approved a grant of N150,000 each to outstanding MSMEs at the event.

He said the N150,000 fund is an “outright grant that does not require beneficiaries to repay”.

Shettima also commissioned state government-subsidised food shops, solar-powered irrigation scheme, and solar-energy power installation at Dutse markets.