The Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) has commenced a capacity development programme for young people in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Analytics, and Machine Learning, as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s digital skills pipeline and prepare youths for the future workforce.
The training, which is funded by NCDMB and delivered by Innovius Nigeria, draws participants from the 57 Local Governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across Lagos State.
The programme was officially flagged off on Monday, 5 June, at a ceremony held in Lagos, attended by the Honourable Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Lagos State, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, representatives of the Executive Secretary of NCDMB, senior government officials, programme partners, facilitators, and beneficiaries.
Speaking at the event, Martins Olajide of Innovius Nigeria described the initiative as a forward-looking intervention funded by NCDMB to equip Nigerian youths with globally relevant competencies in emerging technologies. He explained that the programme focuses on Artificial Intelligence for problem-solving and automation, Data Analytics for evidence-based decision-making, and Machine Learning for predictive insight and innovation.
He praised NCDMB for its sustained commitment to human capital development, noting that the Board continues to redefine local content by placing strong emphasis on skills, knowledge, and intellectual capacity, alongside infrastructure development. According to him, the programme is designed to prepare participants for meaningful contributions across critical sectors, including oil and gas, manufacturing, finance, public sector governance, and emerging technology industries.
Olajide further noted that the training is deliberately practical, with laptops provided to all participants to ensure effective hands-on learning and application throughout the programme duration.
In his remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Youths and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende, commended NCDMB for funding the initiative and Innovius Nigeria for its delivery, describing the programme as timely and aligned with the Greater Lagos Rising vision of the Lagos State Government. He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to initiatives that equip young people with relevant, future-ready skills.
The programme will engage 80 selected youths in structured training sessions facilitated by experienced professionals, with strong emphasis on discipline, excellence, and real-world problem-solving. Beneficiaries will also have access to post-training resources and support for one year.
The initiative underscores the impact of strategic public–private collaboration in advancing youth empowerment, technology adoption, and sustainable national development.
