By Chinenye Anuforo
The future of Nigeria’s economic growth depends on harnessing digital innovation and empowering its youth, the technical adviser on Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Capital to the minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Francis Sani has affirmed.
Sani, at the opening of Darey.io/XTERNS Tech Hub, over the weekend, in Lagos, emphasized the crucial role of young Nigerians in shaping the country’s future.
Sani who is also the programme director, 3 Million Technical Talent (3MTT) Nigeria, highlighted that fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology-driven solutions would be key to ensuring sustainable economic development. “Our greatest asset is our youthful population. If we invest in their talent, equip them with digital skills, and create an enabling environment for innovation, Nigeria will not only compete but thrive in the global economy,” Sani said.
The technical adviser noted that the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy is focused on implementing policies that support startups, digital skills training, and access to capital for young entrepreneurs. These initiatives, he said, are designed to position Nigeria as a leader in Africa’s digital economy.
Sani also stressed the importance of collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions to drive innovation, while calling for increased investment in research and development, improved infrastructure, and policies that encourage tech entrepreneurship. “The future belongs to those who innovate. We must ensure that Nigeria is not left behind in the global digital revolution,” he added.
With a growing number of Nigerian startups gaining international recognition and attracting global investment, experts agree that fostering a culture of innovation will be critical to the country’s long-term economic success. For instance, Darey.io, under the leadership of founder and CEO Dare Oluwafunmilayo, is taking bold steps to bridge gaps in Nigeria’s digital economy.
Through strategic partnerships and infrastructure development, the company aims to create opportunities for young Nigerians to acquire essential digital skills. At the heart of this initiative is the tech hub designed as a collaborative space where individuals can learn, network with professionals, and develop expertise that aligns with the needs of the modern workforce.
A key part of this effort Is Darey.io’s partnership with the 3MTT initiative, which seeks to train three million Nigerians in technical fields. This program, supported by digital tools for tracking progress and career metrics, has already enrolled over 100,000 learners. Importantly, this education is offered at no cost, made possible through 3MTT’s support, reinforcing the critical role of public-private collaboration in advancing economic growth.
Beyond technical expertise, Oluwafunmilayo emphasised the importance of soft skills, such as communication and teamwork, in ensuring employability. To further support young talents, he announced the launch of the Dare Oluwafunmilayo Human Capital Foundation, which will provide laptops, stipends, and financial aid to deserving individuals. This initiative, according to him, aims to remove financial barriers that prevent skilled youth from accessing digital education and economic opportunities.