President Bola Tinubu is preparing to launch a significant $617.7 million investment initiative known as the digital and creative enterprises (i-DICE) program.
This program, initiated by the federal government, aims to promote investments in the information and communications technology (ICT) and creative industries as part of a broader effort to create better, more inclusive, and sustainable job opportunities.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, acting on behalf of President Tinubu, called upon members of the i-DICE steering committee to ensure the program’s commencement by the end of November this year.
Shettima emphasized the urgency of addressing the challenges posed by youth unemployment in the country.
He stated, “The uniqueness of the challenges we are facing in the country necessitates the creation of jobs for our young people to address the crises associated with youth unemployment.
I urge all of us here to come together and ensure that this program kicks off no later than the end of November this year. I am keen on receiving weekly updates on the progress towards launching this program.”
Shettima also stressed the importance of nationwide coverage to ensure inclusivity and maximize the anticipated benefits of the program.
He reassured the technical committee, program stakeholders, and international partners of the government’s unwavering support, emphasizing President Tinubu’s commitment to transforming the country.
Wale Edun, the Minister of Finance, highlighted the program’s potential to contribute significantly to the president’s priorities related to job creation and economic growth.
Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, expressed confidence that this investment would strengthen Nigeria’s technology sector and facilitate the development of solutions in the country’s tech market.