The National Economic Council (NEC) has given its approval for the implementation of the $617.7 million Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (i-DICE) programme across all 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Renewed Hope Administration’s Commitment
During the 140th virtual meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Council reaffirmed the commitment of the renewed hope administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to fostering prosperity and opportunity for all Nigerians.
Nomination of Representatives
State governors were instructed to nominate representatives for each geopolitical zone at the zonal level and focal persons to oversee the programme’s implementation in their respective states.
Diligent Implementation Assured
The Vice President assured diligent, committed, and forthright implementation of the programme across the country as it becomes operational in the coming weeks.
Prioritizing Skill Acquisition and Job Creation
Senator Shettima emphasized the administration’s prioritization of skill acquisition and job creation as crucial components of President Tinubu’s eight-point agenda.
Strategic Focus on Economic Prosperity
The government’s focus on empowering entrepreneurs and small business owners aims to unlock innovation, job creation, and economic growth, fostering a wave of prosperity benefiting all Nigerians.
Accelerating Implementation Efforts
Moving beyond deliberations, the administration is actively pursuing short-term goals en route to achieving medium and long-term strategies.
Call for Consistency and Accountability
Governor Shettima urged governors and council members to remain consistent in executing initiatives to alleviate citizens’ suffering and ensure accountability in interventions deployed.
Impact and Funding of i-DICE Programme
The i-DICE programme, spearheaded by the Bank of Industry, aims to create millions of jobs in the technology sector, supported by funding from various organizations including the African Development Bank, Islamic Development Bank, and the French Development Agency.
Training and Job Creation Projections
The programme targets the training and certification of over 1.2 million youths in ICT skills, with a commitment to create at least 100,000 jobs per state and generate over 5.5 million indirect jobs nationwide.
Other Highlights from the Meeting
- Update on Excess Crude Account (ECA)
- Presentation on State Budget Support Facility
- Abridged Report on Crude Oil Theft Prevention
- Submission on Establishment of State Police
- Update on NEC Ad Hoc Committee on Economic Affairs
These updates reflect the council’s concerted efforts to address economic challenges and drive sustainable development across Nigeria.
Source: StateHouse.NG