FG Launches ‘Hire from Nigeria’ Initiative to Match Talent with Global Market
Olawale Ajimotokan in Abuja The federal government has launched the “Hire from Nigeria” campaign, an initiative that will position the country as a preferred global source of skilled talent and
The Nigerian federal government has introduced the "Hire from Nigeria" initiative, a campaign seeking to position the country as a preferred source of skilled talent and digital services on the global stage. The program, launched by the Minister of Trade and Investment, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, joined by key government officials including Dr Maruf Alausa from the Ministry of Education and Dr. Sunday Dare from the Presidential Media and Public Communication Office, aims to harness Nigeria's demographic strength to create employment opportunities for Nigerians working for international employers.
The initiative, a collaboration between the government and private sector partners such as Tech4Dev and NATEP Office, is set to be showcased at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, emphasizing that hiring from Nigeria is a strategic commercial decision, not an act of goodwill. It is expected to capitalize on Nigeria's youthful population, comprising over 70 percent of its 200 million strong population, and translate this demographic advantage into jobs, exports, and investments.
The program focuses on strengthening Nigeria's talent pipeline through curriculum reforms, technical and vocational education, digital skills development, and industry-focused training. Dr Alausa from the Ministry of Education outlined plans to train over 35,000 Nigerians in six core areas - software development methodologies, cybersecurity, IT automation, AI and machine learning, natural language processing, and customer computing.
A Digital Technology Academy will be established to deliver these courses, ensuring that graduates receive courseware certification upon completion.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, described the initiative as a significant step in placing Nigeria's human capital at the heart of its engagement with the global economy. He highlighted how the evolving global economy is increasingly driven by knowledge, skills, creativity, and professional services that can transcend borders without the movement of physical goods.
Idris noted Nigeria's strategic position to compete globally due to its youthful population, expanding pool of professionals, and growing digital capabilities, asserting that Nigerian talent is ready to work and the world should look to Nigeria.
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