The federal government has proposed November 2023 to launch the $617.7 million Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (i-DICE) programme in fulfilment of its promise to create millions of jobs in the technology space.
To ensure successful implementation of the initiative, Vice President Kashim Shettima has directed members of the i-DICE Steering Committee to make sure the programme starts before the end of November this year.
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The VP gave the directive on Friday when the i-DICE team gave him an update on the progress made so far during a meeting at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
At the meeting, Shettima emphasised the importance of the initiative to the Federal Government’s digital jobs drive, saying the administration is keen on delivering on its promises to Nigerians.
He urged all partners in the i-DICE programme to ensure judicious utilisation of the funds, noting that the $617.7 million scheme is a potential game changer.
The Vice President said the peculiarity of challenges confronting Nigeria demands that the country creates jobs for its teeming youths to address the crises associated with youth unemployment.
Minister of Finance, Wale Edun described the project as key to the promise of President Tinubu, particularly to the youth, for the creation of 1.2 million digital jobs, adding that the $617 million project will go a long way to achieving the President’s priorities on job creation and economic growth and inclusivity.
Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Bosun Tijjani, said the scheme is a unique opportunity for Nigeria to emerge a global leader in technology and innovation, adding that investing in startups to drive solutions in the sector is key
Editor Oloyede Oworu
