Shettima to governors: We won’t regret $617m investment to empower entrepreneurs

Vice-President Kashim Shettima says the federal government will “unlock the entrepreneurship spirit” of Nigerians with the $617.7 million investment in the digital and creative enterprises (i-DICE) programme.

Shettima spoke on Thursday during the virtual meeting of the national economic council (NEC).

The i-DICE is a federal government programme aimed at promoting investment in information and communications technology (ICT) and creative industries, as part of efforts to build better, inclusive and sustainable jobs.

Shettima asked governors to nominate persons for the implementation of the programme at zonal and state levels.

The vice-president said the programme will become operational in the coming weeks,

He added that the administration of President Bola Tinubu is prioritising skill acquisition and job creation to offer Nigerians the opportunity “to earn a living with dignity”.

“Two things are clear: one, we won’t ever regret paving the way for the acquisition of skills that meet the needs of the global markets,” Shettima was quoted as saying in a statement.

“Two, our actions today will shape the economic landscape of tomorrow, and so it’s incumbent upon us to ensure that we leave a legacy of prosperity and opportunity for all Nigerians.

“When we empower entrepreneurs and small business owners, we unlock the potential for innovation, job creation, and economic growth.

“By providing access to financing, training, and mentorship programmes, we unleash the entrepreneurial spirit that lies within every Nigerian, catalysing a wave of economic prosperity that benefits us all.

“We cannot achieve this without inclusivity and equitable access to opportunities. This is the ladder we must offer to every disadvantaged citizen.”