Vice President Kashim Shettima has instructed the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (i-DICE) team to ensure the program’s commencement before the end of November.
During a meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Shettima provided this directive when the i-DICE team briefed him on their progress. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to creating millions of technology-related jobs in Nigeria. The administration has slated November 2023 for the launch of the $617.7 million i-DICE Investment program.
Highlighting the initiative’s significance in the Federal Government’s digital job creation drive, Shettima reiterated the government’s determination to fulfill its commitments to the Nigerian populace. He urged all partners involved in the i-DICE program to ensure the prudent use of the funds.
Shettima emphasized that the $617.7 million scheme could potentially be a game-changer and address the youth unemployment crisis the country is facing. He called for unity among all stakeholders to ensure the program’s launch no later than November this year.
“I am interested in receiving a weekly update on the progress made in kick-starting this program. We also need to expand our reach to cover the entire country to ensure inclusivity. If we manage these funds prudently, the expected impact and benefits will be substantial.”
The Vice President assured the program’s technical committee, personnel, and international partners that they would receive all the necessary support from the government.
“We are committed to this; President Bola Tinubu is deeply passionate about transforming this country. Therefore, you can rest assured of the government’s support,” Vice President Shettima affirmed.