The federal government has initiated TechAdvantage Nigeria with the aim of advancing the socio-economic development of the country and fostering economic prosperity, social inclusion, and national pride for future generations.
Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, unveiled the project in Abuja, highlighting it as an ecosystem facilitating connections between apprentices and business owners, and enabling aspiring entrepreneurs to learn from experienced professionals.
He emphasized the opportunity for individuals to gain training and empowerment through the academy, as well as the ability for customers to engage and hire skilled individuals through the jobs platform. Additionally, he mentioned the potential for traders, startups, and technicians to expand their networks, share knowledge, and collaborate through the online marketplace.
The Minister underscored that TechAdvantage Nigeria aims to unleash the limitless potential of the populace towards a technologically advanced future, aligned with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, which envisions innovation driving economic growth and empowering individuals for a brighter future.
Inspired by the entrepreneurial spirit of the Computer Village Model, the project aims to foster collaboration, drive success, and adapt to technology, creating an accessible online ecosystem for all Nigerians. Nnaji urged citizens, especially the youth and professionals, to leverage the TechAdvantage Nigeria online academy to acquire skills for the technology sector and explore career opportunities on the platform.
Amu Ogbeide, CEO of TechAdvantage Nigeria, explained that the project seeks to replicate the success of the Computer Village Business Model nationwide, emphasizing its role in supporting innovation, technology adoption, and livelihoods across Nigeria.
Dr. Olushola Segun Odunsanya, Director-General of the National Centre for Technology Management, highlighted the launch of TechAdvantage as the beginning of transforming Nigeria’s economy. He emphasized the importance of cultural practices such as apprenticeship in driving economic growth, stating that TechAdvantage is designed with a similar purpose in mind.