The Federal Government has inaugurated a technical committee to kick off the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (iDICE) Programme, with Vice President Kashim Shettima hailing the development as the dawn of a new era in Nigeria.
The iDICE Programme, a collaborative effort between the government and international partners, including the Bank of Industry (BoI), African Development Bank (AfDB), French Development Agency (FDA) and Islamic Development Bank (IDB), aims to nurture and empower enterprises in the digital and creative sectors.
The National Economic Council (NEC) had in its last meeting in March endorsed the implementation of the $617.7 million i-DICE programme in the 36 states of the federation and the FCT.
Speaking on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Technical Committee of the iDICE programme, the Vice President expressed optimism about the initiative’s potential to redefine the nation’s digital and creative landscape.
The Vice President revealed that the Ministry of Finance has been mandated to ensure the expeditious disbursement of funds for the iDICE Programme, paving the way for its swift implementation.
He highlighted the significance of the partnerships forged with institutions, describing them as a “convergence of vision and purpose” in pursuit of shared prosperity.
The VP commended the meticulous preparations undertaken by the Ministry of Finance and partners, affirming the programme’s readiness to unleash its full potential.
Senator Shettima applauded the accomplishments of the programme coordination Unit over the past year, including its establishment, procurement of fund managers, and engagement with ecosystem stakeholders, describing them as a testament to Nigeria’s indomitable spirit of innovation.
The iDICE Programme, according to the VP, “represents a catalyst for transformation, a beacon of hope for future generations.”
Special Adviser to the President on Economic Matters (Office of The Vice President) and chairman of the Technical Committee on the iDICE programme, Tope Kolade Fasua, noted that iDICE’s substantial financial backing underscores the programme’s potential to drive transformative change in Nigeria’s digital and creative sectors.
According to Fasua, the AfDB has completed all necessary documentation and is ready to disburse funds, subject to agreed terms.
Editor : Ena Agbanoma
