THE Federal Government has said it will ensure that computers are not only affordable but will also pursue broadband connectivity.
Speaking in Lagos at an interactive session on Tuesday, organized by Intel Corporation aimed at making ICT solutions more accessible and affordable to Nigerians, Senior Special Adviser to President Muhammadu Buhari on Job Creation and Youth Employment, Mr. Afolabi Imoukhuede, said the FG will partner organizations with similar vision, adding that technology is an enabler to achieving industrialization.
He also called on operators to aim at greater market and low margins as their contribution to the ecosystem.
Imoukhuede said the problem of the nation was not unavailability of jobs but employability, adding that there are jobs for those with right skills and training.
“The issue of employability is key, if you want to compete you need to be competent, the ministry is starting by training teachers so they can impart the right knowledge.”
Earlier in her opening speech, Regional President Middle East, Turkey and Africa, Intel Corporation, Mrs. Cigdem Ertem, lamented that with growing unemployment situation around the world, technology is a veritable tool for addressing the problems.
“202 million people were unemployed in 2013, up by five million from 2012. There is need to ensure technology growth. Technology is critical for Nigeria to take her place in the global market place. Technology is developing very fast and any nation that fails to keep pace with this growth will be left behind. We need technology in every aspect from agriculture to industries and health care.
“Intel aims to bring more accessible and affordable computers and internet for economic growth of Nigerians, working closely with other partners. In 2016, Intel is committed to increasing investment, to achieve the goals of this program, ultimately achieving a truly smart and connected Nigeria collaborating with its partners in the ecosystem.”