In a landmark move to bolster Nigeria’s digital economy, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, inaugurated a state-of-the-art solar-powered Community ICT Centre in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Monday. The facility, constructed by the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), was unveiled at the newly built Abeokuta City Hall Complex during the 38th Lisabi Festival, marking a significant step toward technological inclusion for the region’s youth.
The ICT Centre, powered entirely by solar energy, is designed to provide local communities with access to cutting-edge technology resources, training, and connectivity. The project aligns with the federal government’s ambitious goal under President Bola Tinubu’s administration to create one million technology jobs nationwide. Speaking at the event, Tijani underscored the transformative potential of such initiatives, stating, “This centre is a bridge for our talented youths to explore their creativity, acquire digital skills, and achieve financial freedom through technology. It’s about giving them the tools to compete globally.”
The inauguration was a collaborative highlight of the Lisabi Festival, a cultural celebration of Egbaland’s heritage. Alongside the ICT Centre, Senator Solomon Adeola (representing Ogun West) donated a library and administrative block to the complex, further enriching the community’s resources. The Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, hailed the developments as a “game-changer” for economic empowerment, noting, “These facilities will open doors for our young people, ensuring they are not left behind in the digital age.”
Tijani’s visit to Abeokuta capped a busy day that also saw him engage with stakeholders in Lagos, reinforcing his commitment to driving innovation across Nigeria. The Abeokuta ICT Centre is part of NITDA’s broader mandate to expand digital infrastructure in underserved areas, with solar power ensuring sustainability amid Nigeria’s energy challenges. The facility is expected to serve as a hub for tech training, entrepreneurship programs, and community development initiatives, directly benefiting students, small business owners, and aspiring innovators.
Local residents expressed optimism about the centre’s potential impact. Adebayo Olusegun, a 22-year-old computer science student, said, “This is a big opportunity for people like me who want to learn coding and tech skills but don’t have access to resources. I can’t wait to start using it.” Community leaders also praised the project’s eco-friendly design, with solar power reducing operational costs and aligning with global sustainability goals.
The event drew dignitaries, including Ogun State government officials, traditional rulers, and tech industry representatives, underscoring its significance as a public-private partnership milestone. Tijani reiterated the ministry’s focus on leveraging technology to address unemployment and drive economic growth, hinting at more such projects in the pipeline. “Abeokuta is just the beginning,” he said. “We’re committed to taking this model to every corner of Nigeria.”
As the country races to position itself as a leader in Africa’s digital landscape, the Abeokuta ICT Centre stands as a testament to the power of innovation and collaboration. For the people of Egbaland, it’s not just a building; it is a gateway to a future where technology empowers dreams.