ICT development skills in Nigeria take centre stage as Dapo Abiodun urges youths to embrace technology with new American-supported tech hub in Ogun State

ICT development skills in Nigeria are now in sharper focus as Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State called on Nigerian youths to take full advantage of technology to empower themselves.

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The governor issued this challenge during the unveiling of Window on America, a United States-backed tech initiative launched in partnership with GFA Technologies at the Ogun State Tech Hub in Abeokuta.

Governor Abiodun described the new facility as more than just an ICT centre. According to him, it is a dynamic space where local ambition meets global opportunity.

He explained that this initiative is the result of a strong public-private partnership involving the Ogun State Government, the US Consulate, and GFA Technologies.

“This is where global ideas and ideals converge with local ambitions,” he said during the event.

“This platform goes beyond physical space—it enables knowledge sharing, skills development, and meaningful collaboration with the global tech ecosystem.”

The governor emphasised Ogun State’s commitment to digital transformation.

He noted that the state has already made significant investments in technology, including fibre optic connectivity, innovation clusters, and digital literacy training centres.

These efforts aim to build a workforce ready for the digital economy.

He added, “We believe that technology holds the key to economic growth, job creation, and improved quality of life. That belief has guided our decisions and partnerships.”

Abiodun encouraged youths to take charge of their future by using the resources provided through the centre.

He said the hub offers free access to programmes such as English conversation clubs, digital literacy workshops, and global affairs discussions.

The space also includes American-authored books, journalism content, and a vast range of digital learning resources.

“These are not mere amenities; they are the essential tools of the future workforce,” he stressed. “ICT development skills Nigeria must not be an afterthought—they are now a priority.”

JoEllen Gorg, Acting Consular General of the United States, was also present and praised the initiative.

She said that Window on America represents a powerful example of what can be achieved through innovative and inclusive leadership.

She confirmed that the hub is the second of its kind in Ogun and one of 29 American spaces across Nigeria.

“This initiative supports entrepreneurship, leadership, digital training, and cross-cultural engagement,” Gorg said.

“It is a place where Nigerian youths can access resources, improve their skills, and explore opportunities both locally and abroad.”

She also encouraged students, creatives, and educators to fully utilise the centre’s tools, which include high-speed internet, computers, e-books, academic databases, and more.

According to her, the initiative underscores America’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s youth and fostering mutual understanding.

Debo Omololu, CEO of GFA Technologies, shared his enthusiasm.

He said his company has already invested ₦400 million into Ogun State and created more than 1,000 jobs, mostly in software engineering.

He urged youths to engage with the initiative and take control of their career futures.

“We’re not just building tech infrastructure,” Omololu said. “We’re building capacity. The opportunity is here—now it’s up to the next generation to take it.”

Earlier in the day, JoEllen Gorg paid a courtesy visit to Governor Abiodun at his office in Abeokuta, further affirming the deepening ties between the US mission and Ogun State.

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With initiatives like this, ICT development skills in Nigeria are no longer optional—they are central to progress, innovation, and future employment for the country’s youth.

Source: Read more at thecable.ng