President Bola Tinubu has conveyed the Federal Government of Nigeria’s full commitment to aiding global tech giant, Google Incorporated, in generating one million digital jobs within Nigeria. The President’s assurance was given during a meeting with Google Global Vice President, Mr. Richard Gingras, at the State House on a Friday evening.
President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s pool of creative and talented young individuals, especially in the era of Artificial Intelligence, expressing the belief that Google possesses the necessary capabilities and tools to empower these youths to succeed.
Expressing gratitude for Google’s willingness to collaborate, the President emphasized that the tech company’s support aligns with Nigeria’s push for digital innovation and youth empowerment, and they are eager to work together to achieve the goal of creating one million digital jobs in the country. He also acknowledged Google’s dedication to upholding free speech, freedom of the press, and democracy through its platforms, underscoring the importance of defending these fundamental values.
During his address, Mr. Gingras informed President Tinubu that he was in Nigeria for the West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference. He commended the creativity and talent of Nigerian youth who are leveraging technology and digital tools to enhance access to information and promote democracy. Mr. Gingras reiterated Google’s profound interest in Nigeria and their readiness to assist the Federal Government.
He enumerated Google’s various capabilities in fields like Artificial Intelligence and digital innovation, which are instrumental in empowering young people to become digital entrepreneurs. Additionally, he mentioned Google’s subsea cable, Equiano, named after the Nigerian slave abolitionist, which landed in Nigeria in April 2022 and significantly improved internet connectivity.
Mr. Gingras pledged Google’s support in securing Nigeria against disinformation and fake news, emphasizing their commitment to continuing the partnership with the Nigerian government. He praised the vibrancy and ingenuity of Nigeria’s young population and pledged to continue supporting programs to bolster the country’s digital economy.
Accompanying Mr. Gingras on the visit were Mr. Adewolu Adene, Government and Public Affairs Manager for Google in West Africa, and Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, Publisher of Premium Times.
