Building a ​digital-​ready ​workforce: Tackling the ​technology ​skill ​deficit in Nigeria

By Temiloluwa Gbadebo

In this digital age, the prowess of a nation’s workforce in technological skills has become pivotal to its position on the global stage. Nigeria, despite its impressive GDP of $448.12 billion in 2019, finds itself in a conundrum. The nation, which boasts a vast youth population, confronts a staggering youth unemployment rate surpassing 40% in that very year. The tech realm, therefore, emerges as both a beacon of hope and a significant challenge.

This conundrum is accentuated by a pronounced tech skill deficit. A youth population, constituting over 60% of Nigeria’s demographic, brimming with energy and aspirations, is ironically deficient in digital skills. As per the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), many of these young individuals remain unequipped to partake in and contribute to the digital economy. The implications are vast and not merely restricted to individual prospects; they resonate with the socio-economic prospects of Nigeria as a whole.

This skill deficit ripples across various spheres. Economically, Nigeria stands on the sidelines of the global tech industry, a behemoth valued at over $3 trillion. The chasm in local tech expertise is evident as numerous lucrative tech positions, often with annual salaries exceeding $100,000, find their seekers in foreign shores. The situation socially leaves our young on the brink of joblessness, their latent potential overshadowed by archaic educational systems. The ensuing brain drain, with our brightest minds eyeing international opportunities, further chips away at the nation’s core strength.

Amidst this backdrop, I initiated TechLifta, a local tech training endeavour aimed at bridging this glaring skills gap. Understanding the gravity of the issue and inspired by the transformative power of technology, I envisioned TechLifta as a beacon of hope, poised to empower Nigeria’s youth.

While it’s crucial to infuse digital literacy, coding, and data analytics into our standard curriculums, entities like TechLifta showcase the transformative impact of specialized local tech initiatives. Citing another success story, Andela, which scouts and nurtures software developers, offers a glimpse into the monumental change possible. They’ve groomed countless developers, many of whom now adorn roles in premier global tech enterprises.

The rise of e-learning platforms further amplifies this potential. Renowned platforms like Coursera and Udemy are democratizing access to top-tier education. When such digital avenues intersect with ground-root initiatives like TechLifta, providing hands-on training and mentorship, the results can be revolutionary.

Furthermore, a sound infrastructure is indispensable. Ensuring uninterrupted power and dependable internet connectivity is a governmental prerogative. By cultivating a favourable ambience for tech startups, characterized by incentives and policy support, Nigeria can reverse the outsourcing trend. Propelling tech SMEs with tax incentives and grants can transform Nigeria into a magnet for global tech ventures.

Conclusively, the digital revolution presents Nigeria with a shimmering window of opportunity. The cornerstone of our future, our youth, with the right resources and endeavours like TechLifta, can reshape Nigeria’s destiny. This is our moment to steer Nigeria into a future where it doesn’t merely join the tech race but sets the pace.