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Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

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Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

… Pledges digital revolution, National Talent Strategy

By: Our Reporter

Vice Presidential Candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Senator Kashim Shettima says upon emerging victorious at the February elections, their administration will ensure that Nigeria taps into the $14.5 trillion global digital economy of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR).

Shettima stated this at a Roundtable Discussion with Leading American Company Representatives at the United States Consulate in Lagos at the weekend. The event was organised by United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mary Beth Leonard, and Consul General William B. Stevens in conjunction with the American Business Council.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

According to him, with Nigeria standing at a pole position and being the continent’s largest economy with a high mobile penetration index, the new APC administration will fully position the country to harness the potential of the burgeoning $14.5 trillion dollars global digital economy as pushed by the World Economic Forum.

This is just as he added that in addition to implementing Nigeria’s Start-up Act fully, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu when elected will proactively improve the nation’s digital innovation and entrepreneurship policies as enshrined in the APC campaign manifesto.  

“We will invest in research and development through funding and developing effective legal, institutional and regulatory frameworks and policies to support the thriving Nigerian innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem. We will support start-ups with promising ideas to develop them from inception to impact.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

“Our party will support the development and growth of the ICT industry to facilitate the production, distribution, and provision of ICT products, goods, and services from the local markets to the global markets. Our target is to turn small and medium businesses into innovation-driven enterprises. We want to create more unicorns in Nigeria. Today, we have five (Flutterwave, Interswitch, Jumia, Andela and Opay) out of seven African unicorns.

“We will open the country up to many opportunities presented by the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). Technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things (IoT), Blockchain, Drones, Robotics, 3D printing will be leveraged to transform Nigeria’s economy by creating new business models that will boost productivity, create jobs, solve pertinent issues and grow the businesses and sectors of tomorrow.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

READ ALSO: https://newsng.ng/nigeria-millions-of-vulnerable-people-to-face-daily-struggle-in-2023-un/

“Nigeria presents a sea of economic opportunities in virtually every sector, and the country’s youthful demography is an enormous opportunity in this digital era, hence the need to make digitally-enabled socio-economic development a high priority. Digital Transformation is a driving force for innovation and inclusive, sustainable growth. Innovations stimulate job creation, create new markets, democratise wealth creation, address poverty, reduce inequality, facilitate the delivery of goods and services, and contribute to the achievement of Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals.

“Policymakers, change makers and impact makers need to keep pace with advances in technology. Recognising the efforts of the present administration’s Digital Economy initiatives, Nigeria is ready for a comprehensive digital transformation strategy to guide a common, coordinated response to create immense value and prosperity for its citizens,” he stated.

The APC Vice Presidential candidate also tipped the promotion of talent, saying it is the people component of technology and that harnessing the Nigerian young and talented population can make Nigeria a global talent factory.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

 “According to the Korn Ferry’s report, there will be an 85 million talent deficit globally by 2030, which will result in an unrealised $8.5 trillion annual revenue. All developed countries will be affected because of ageing, but Nigeria has a competitive advantage to fill the gaps. The recent PWC reports titled Nigerian Brain Exports: – the optimal path to growing the Nigerian economy validated our belief in our talent in Nigeria. Therefore, we plan to invest hugely in crafting and executing the National Talent Strategy. To support the efforts of Big Technologies such as Microsoft, Google and Amazon, who have invested in building engineering services business units in Nigeria,” he said.

Senator Shettima explained that across the world, there is a high demand for investment in infrastructure and that from 2016 to 2030, there will be a need to invest an average USD3.3 trillion annually to keep pace with projected growth, according to a McKinsey report.

“Nigeria isn’t an exception to this as its population continues to rise at an accelerated rate.  Therefore, it is imperative for Nigeria to accelerate the growth of the economy and to close its enormous infrastructure investment deficit, which is estimated to be around $100 billion a year, according to Moody’s 2020 report.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

“The Tinubu/Shettima movement do realise that there is the need for investment in major sectors of the economy such as agriculture, education, healthcare, power, oil and gas. We understand that Nigeria is yet a far cry from what is obtainable in first-world countries but we are irrevocably committed to accelerating the improvement of the system through massive new investment and deployment of new technologies. We plan to expand financing sources for infrastructure development across Nigeria, using a blend of public and private capital including institutional investors and specialized infrastructure financiers who can provide long-term capital. We strongly believe this financing plan can address the rising demand for infrastructure through various levels of intervention.

“Needless to say, Nigeria as a country has benefitted immensely from the technical knowledge and expertise of our Western friends and companies. Thus, we would be open to further friendly economic cooperation in a transparent and sustainable manner.

“It is noteworthy that the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp), set up by the Buhari Administration last year aims to raise about $40 billion, to finance infrastructure projects, with a seed capital of N1 trillion coming from the CBN, the (NSIA) and the African Finance Corporation (AFC). This marks a significant step towards closing the infrastructure gap in the country and if elected, our team would look at ways to improve the milestones of InfraCorp.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

“Along with several other national interventions and multilateral financing support sources, InfraCorp is therefore crucial to help realise the goals of the National Integrated Infrastructure Master Plan (NIIMP), created in 2020, to attract infrastructure investments of $2.30 trillion by 2043,” Shettima said.

He however noted that similar to other countries, Nigeria is faced with daunting challenges of growing the digital economy and these include inadequate technology infrastructure, scarcity of skilled digital natives and commitment levels by the Government at all strata in driving the nation’s digital transformation agenda.

“The APC manifesto has designed a roadmap to aid the Nigerian Government in navigating the Fourth Industrial Revolution and leverage its innovative technologies for a viable digital economy within a sustainable, realistic, inclusive, enabling, empowering, safe, and secure framework.

“Our manifesto recommends policy, technological and other interventions for the Government to promote a digital Nigeria that can harness the opportunities of the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

“Furthermore, the objective of the APC digital revolution is to harness the promises of digital technologies while avoiding its perils. We will support innovation to transform Nigerian society and create wealth and prosperity for all. We will encourage citizens to use digital technology as a source of inspiration to promote integration, create inclusive economic growth and stimulate job creation. We will invest in digital infrastructure to connect the unconnected, break the digital divide, and eradicate poverty for the country’s socio-economic development,” the VP candidate emphasised.

The round table discussions also had in attendance the vice presidential candidates of the Labour Party (LP), Yusuf Datti,  the Peoples Democtatic Party (PDP), Ifeanyi Okowa and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Isaac Idahosa.

Shettima: We will ensure Nigeria taps into $14.5 trillion global digital economy

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Re-run election into the national assembly, a Triumph of Democracy – Kwande

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Re-run election into the national assembly, a Triumph of Democracy – Kwande

By: Bodunrin Kayode

A Plateau elder Ambassador Yahaya Kwande has described the just concluded re-run election into the national assembly as a Triumph of Democracy.

In a release titled Congratulations to the Winners of Plateau State Bye Elections of February 3, 2024, he noted that the entire exercise was a victory to the people of the state.

“With great joy and profound gratitude, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the newly elected Senator, (Plateau North Senatorial District), Prince Pam Mwadkwon Dachungyang, and the Member of the House of Representatives, (Jos North/Bassa Constituency), Hon. Daniel Asama, on their resounding victory in the recently concluded bye election held in Plateau State.

“Your triumph is a testament to the true spirit of democracy and the unwavering support of the people.

“I have no doubt that both Prince Pam Mwadkon and Hon. Daniel Asama will live up to the aspirations and expectations of the voters, as they embark on this noble responsibility of representing their constituents. May your tenure be marked by dedication, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of progress for our beloved state and nation.

“As we celebrate this momentous milestone, let us not forget the challenges we faced during the post-2023 elections period. It is my sincere hope that Plateau State will swiftly recover from the divisions and tussles that marred our unity. Let us unite as one, for the strength of our state lies in our togetherness.

“It is essential for the government and the people to undertake immediate measures to reconcile and bridge the gaps that have emerged. We must never forget that every citizen, irrespective of their religion or ethnicity, is entitled to their fundamental rights. The use of religion as a tool of disfranchisement must cease; we must affirm that citizenship rights are not conditional on faith.

“Let us also strive to recapture the lost glory of our state, when Jos was hailed as the political Mecca of Nigeria, attracting momentous political events and embracing politicians from all shades and ideologies. We can revive this legacy by nurturing an environment that exudes peace, openness, and security for all. Together, we can restore Plateau State as a beacon of democratic excellence.

“In conclusion, I express my utmost optimism for the future of Plateau State. I extend my deepest appreciation to all who peacefully participated in the bye election, be it as candidates or enthusiastic supporters. Our journey towards progress and development continues, and I am confident that we will stand united, empowered by the unwavering spirit of our people.” said Kwande.

Re-run election into the national assembly, a Triumph of Democracy – Kwande

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APC-IGG: Ambassador Tsoken commends President Tinubu for intervening to ease hardship for Nigerians.

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APC-IGG: Ambassador Tsoken commends President Tinubu for intervening to ease hardship for Nigerians.

By: Jabiru Hassan

The National President of the APC Initiative for Good Governance (APC-IGG), Ambassador Musa Mohammed Tsoken, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for intervening to ease the hardships affecting Nigerians.

In a message he issued to newsmen in Abuja on Monday, Ambassador Tsoken described President Tinubu as a leader with listening war by giving a marching order for the release of different food items to ease hardships for the people of Nigeria, which is a good initiative.

”APC-IGG has recognized what Mr. President has done in order to ease the hardship affecting the people on the food price hike, which is very good foresight from our leader. We therefore thank all those who have helped with the implementation of the process to release the food items from the federal government reserves across the country for their well-deserved thought.” The statement was added.

Ambassador Musa Mohammed Tsoken reassured the people of Nigeria that the APC Initiative for Good Governance would continue to work selflessly in order to ensure that Nigeria is progressive under the present democratic dispensation without bias.

Amb Tsoken emphasizes that the emergence of His Excellency Sen. Dr. George Akume as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation depicts the fact that President Bola Ahmad Tinubu has reliable and credible individuals who have verse experience in governance from all ramifications; therefore, the deliverance of democratic dividends is something that Nigerians should believe in its workability and full efficacy in the near future, considering the fact that some of the policies and programs of the Renewed Hope Agenda have started gaining sway in the lives of the citizenry, he concluded.

APC-IGG: Ambassador Tsoken commends President Tinubu for intervening to ease hardship for Nigerians.

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APC Campaign Team in Chibok Town Rally Ahead of Bye Election

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APC Campaign Team in Chibok Town Rally Ahead of Bye Election

… Campaign Team Receives Decampees and Highlights Continued Development in Chibok

By: Our Reporter

Borno State’s Deputy Governor, Umar Usman Kadafur, led an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign team to Chibok town in preparation for the upcoming House of Assembly bye election scheduled for Saturday. The event saw the presence of several notable APC figures, including the APC Deputy National Chairman for the North, Ali Bukar Dalori, and APC State Chairman, Hon. Bello Ayuba, among others.

Addressing a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters, Deputy Governor Kadafur urged the people of Chibok Local Government to come out in large numbers and vote for the APC House of Assembly candidate, Pogu Lawan. He assured them that the administration of Governor Babagana Umara Zulum is committed to delivering more dividends of democracy, particularly in the areas of youth empowerment, education, and basic amenities.

Deputy Governor Kadafur emphasized the administration’s achievements in terms of infrastructural development, not only in Chibok but across the entire state. He promised that more developmental projects are in the works in the coming years. He encouraged the people of Chibok to support Governor Zulum’s administration by ensuring a resounding victory for the APC in the bye election.

APC Deputy National Chairman for the North, Ali Dalori, APC State Chairman, Bello Ayuba, and APC State Vice Chairman for Zone C, Yerima Aliyu, all took turns addressing the crowd during the campaign rally. They urged the people of Chibok to consider the significant achievements of the APC-led administration and to reciprocate the gesture by voting for Pogu Lawan.

The APC leaders reiterated that the party remains the strongest and most promising in the country. They expressed gratitude for the warm reception received from the people of Chibok and expressed confidence in the party’s victory in the upcoming election.

During the rally, thousands of individuals, including the local government PDP Party chairman, decamped from the PDP to the ruling APC. The decampees were warmly welcomed by the deputy governor and other APC party stalwarts, with a promise of equal treatment within the party.

The bye election in Chibok is necessitated by the vacancy resulting from the death of the winner of the 2023 House of Assembly election, Late Dr. Nuhu Clark. As per constitutional requirements, the bye election will fill the vacant seat.

APC Campaign Team in Chibok Town Rally Ahead of Bye Election

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