The Federal Government has launched the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) Global Certificate Licensing Programme to equip Nigerians with the digital skills required for the modern economy.
The initiative aims to bridge the country's growing digital skills gap and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital economy.
Speaking at the launch, Dr. Niran Oyekale, Chairman of Commit Technology and Consult Ltd, highlighted the urgent need for Nigeria to take proactive steps in digital skills development.
He cited a projected global shortfall of 85 million skilled workers, estimated to be worth $8.5 trillion, and warned that failure to address the gap could leave Nigeria lagging in the digital revolution.
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Oyekale emphasized that traditional degrees alone no longer guarantee employment, as most future jobs will be skills-based.
He noted that "digital literacy is now the minimum requirement for employment in today's economy," yet Nigerian universities and higher education institutions are not adequately equipping graduates with these essential skills.
The Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), established in 2004 as the training arm of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), is set to play a crucial role in reversing this trend. The institute will provide ICT and digital training to ensure Nigerian youth and professionals are globally competitive.
With Nigeria's large and youthful population, experts believe the country has the potential to become a major hub for digital talent—if the right investments in skills development are made.
The new DBI programme is expected to be a key driver in preparing Nigerians for the digital future.
