The Federal Government of Nigeria has affirmed its readiness to support Google in creating one million digital jobs in the country.
President Bola Tinubu made the affirmation during a visit by Google Global Vice President, Mr Richard Gingras on Friday.
Tinubu emphasized the country’s pool of creative and talented young people who were eager to learn, particularly in the field of Artificial Intelligence, AI.
He acknowledged Google’s capabilities and tools as essential for the success of young individuals.
He said:
“I am glad that Google is ready to partner with us. You have answered our call on digital innovation and to help our youths. You are supporting our efforts to promote digital economy. We are ready to work with you on your commitment to create 1 million digital jobs in Nigeria.
“We will give you all the support you need to have a beneficial corporate responsibility. We have started our economic reforms, even though tortuous.”
Gingras, while addressing Nigeria’s President at the West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference, commended the creativity and talent of Nigerian youths in utilizing technology to expand information access and promote democracy.
The Vice President expressed Google’s keen interest in Nigeria and readiness to support the Federal Government.
He highlighted Google’s capabilities in AI and other digital innovations, emphasizing the impact of the Equiano subsea cable, which landed in Nigeria in April 2022, on future internet connectivity demands.
He also pledged that Google would help protect Nigeria in the era of misinformation and fake news, and said his organization seeks to continue working with the Nigerian government.
Gingras said:
“Google has deep interest in Nigeria. We want to support the government’s efforts to create 1 million digital jobs. We have all the tools and capabilities to make this happen. We will also help to secure Nigeria and we have discussed that with your National Security Adviser.
“I came to Nigeria to learn. I am going back home very impressed with what I saw. You have very vibrant, creative and talented young people who are embracing innovation.
“We will continue to support your programmes to expand your digital economy.”
Regarding Google’s promotion of freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and democracy through its platforms, Tinubu stated that freedom of speech and freedom of the press should not be hindered for the greater good.
The President said:
“It is in public interest to continue to defend free press and free speech. We are committed to supporting a free society.”
Others in the meeting were Mr Adewolu Adene, Government and Public Affairs Manager for Google in West Africa, Mr Adewolu Adene and Premium Times Publisher, Mr Dapo Olorunyomi
