The Senator representing Lagos Central, Wasiu Eshilokun, has urged the youths to acquire digital and artificial intelligence skills to remain competitive in the evolving global economy.
He gave the advice during the inauguration of the Renewed Hope ICT Centre at Ijero Baptist Primary School, Ebute Metta, Lagos Mainland Local Government Area, on Friday.
The ICT centre was facilitated by the senator in partnership with the Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute.
Speaking at the event, Eshilokun described digital literacy as a necessity rather than a luxury, saying future opportunities would favour those equipped with relevant technological skills.
He said, “The world is changing at an unprecedented pace, and tomorrow belongs to young people with digital and artificial intelligence skills.”
We must prepare our youths to compete globally by equipping them with the knowledge required in today’s digital economy.
“The centre is designed to serve as a hub for digital learning, innovation and entrepreneurship, offering training in computer appreciation, coding, software applications, data analysis, digital marketing, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies.”
The lawmaker added that the facility was established to empower youths, women, artisans, entrepreneurs and other residents with employable digital skills.
“This is more than a building equipped with computers. It is an investment in human capital, innovation and the future of our people,” he added.
Eshilokun disclosed that additional ICT centres would be established at Jibril Martins Secondary School and on Lagos Island to expand access to digital education across the senatorial district.
He called on the Lagos State Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology to partner the Lagos Mainland Local Government in developing training curricula, providing technical support and connecting the centre with technology partners to ensure its sustainability.
The lawmaker also urged the local government to assume full responsibility for the management of the facility, stressing the need for adequate security, maintenance, stable electricity supply and uninterrupted access for residents.
“The project no longer belongs to me. It belongs to the people of Lagos Mainland. The council must ensure that it remains functional and accessible at all times,” he said.