Over the past year, the pace of digitization in Nigeria has increased significantly, leaving an enormous opportunity to foster the technology ecosystem across the country, create jobs and develop a strong digital economy. But much more needs to be done before all citizens can take advantage of this opportunity.
Microsoft is working with the Government of Nigeria, launching several big projects to accelerate digital transformation in the country.
The focus of these projects will span three key areas:
Connectivity
Six regions in the country have been earmarked for the development of high-speed internet infrastructure. Microsoft will work closely with local partners to improve broadband connectivity in these communities while also assisting with the design and implementation of hyper-scale cloud services.
Skilling
Microsoft is committing to upskilling five million people in Nigeria over the next three years. To help reach this goal, 1,700 trainers will provide blended online and in-person training courses to the country’s youth as well as government workers. Through these and other initiatives, we hope to create over 27,000 new digital jobs in the next three years.
Digital transformation
This will take the shape of two separate initiatives:
By collaborating with local partners, Microsoft will support the design and implementation of cloud-based tools to further enable the government’s fight against corruption.
Through a newly formed partnership with the National Institute of Cultural Orientation, Microsoft will harness the power of AI in support of the organization’s efforts to preserve and revive Nigeria’s three major indigenous languages: Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.
Microsoft is excited to add to its existing investments in Nigeria and believes these initiatives can help build the foundation for a strong digital economy in the country.
You can watch the partnership launch here.
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