The future of Nigeria’s economic success hinges on digital innovation and the empowerment of its youth, according to Francis Sani, Technical Adviser on Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Capital to the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Speaking at the launch of the Darey.io/XTERNS Tech Hub in Lagos, Sani emphasized the crucial role of young Nigerians in shaping the country’s digital economy.
“Our greatest asset is our youthful population. If we invest in their talent, equip them with digital skills, and create an enabling environment for innovation, Nigeria will not only compete but thrive in the global economy.”
Building a Digital-First Nigeria
The Nigerian government, through the Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, is rolling out policies to support startups, digital skills training, and capital access for young entrepreneurs. These efforts aim to:
Position Nigeria as Africa’s leading digital economy
Foster innovation and entrepreneurship
Equip youth with in-demand digital skills
Attract global investment in Nigeria’s tech ecosystem
Collaboration between the government, private sector, and educational institutions is essential to drive innovation. Sani called for:
Increased investment in research and development
Improved infrastructure for digital businesses
Policies that encourage tech entrepreneurship
“The future belongs to those who innovate. We must ensure that Nigeria is not left behind in the global digital revolution.”
Darey.io and 3MTT: Bridging the Digital Skills Gap
One of the private sector initiatives transforming Nigeria’s digital landscape is Darey.io, led by founder and CEO Dare Oluwafunmilayo. The company is actively bridging the gap in digital skills through:
Tech hubs like XTERNS – Providing a collaborative space for learning and networking
Strategic partnerships with government initiatives – Including the 3 million Technical Talent (3MTT) program
Infrastructure development – Ensuring access to digital education and job-ready training
The 3MTT initiative, supported by the Nigerian government, is on a mission to train three million Nigerians in technical fields. So far, over 100,000 learners have been enrolled—at no cost—thanks to public-private collaboration.
Beyond technical expertise, Oluwafunmilayo stressed the importance of soft skills like communication and teamwork, which are essential for employability in a global digital economy.
To further support young talents, he announced the launch of the Dare Oluwafunmilayo Human Capital Foundation, which will provide:
Laptops for students
Stipends and financial aid to deserving individuals
Career support to ensure digital inclusion
“This initiative aims to remove financial barriers that prevent skilled youth from accessing digital education and economic opportunities.”
The Road Ahead
With Nigerian startups gaining international recognition and attracting global investment, fostering a culture of innovation will be critical to Nigeria’s long-term economic success.
As the government and private sector continue to invest in youth talent, Nigeria is well on its way to becoming a powerhouse in Africa’s digital economy—where young innovators don’t just participate, but lead.
