The Fish For Life Foundation recently brought together speakers and stakeholders to discuss critical issues surrounding digital empowerment and mass unemployment solutions in Nigeria with over 150 people in attendance.
Held on May 9, 2024, the conference featured insightful discussions, expert panels, and valuable contributions from prominent figures in government, business, and academia.
The founder of the foundation, Dr. OpeBanwo, said the conference is a platform for thought leaders to share their perspectives and strategies for addressing mass unemployment among Nigerian youths.
Banwo’s address, titled “Why Mass Digital Skills Empowerment Program As A Nuclear Weapon For Solving Mass Unemployment Among Nigerian Youths,” underscored the importance of equipping young Nigerians with the digital skills needed to succeed in today’s economy.
Former Ogun State Governor, Senator Gbenga Daniels, chaired the event and delivered a keynote address on “Policy Frameworks for Digital Empowerment: Insights from Government Leadership”.
Daniels stressed the need for proactive government policies and initiatives to support digital entrepreneurship and innovation, citing examples from successful programmes implemented during his tenure as governor.
Former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Prof Kingsley Moghalu shared “Global Trends In Digital Education And Economic Development, Offering Valuable Lessons For Nigeria’s Digital Transformation”.
Moghalu emphasised the role of education in empowering youth and fostering economic growth, urging policymakers to prioritise investments in digital literacy and skills development.
Former Secretary to Ogun State Government, Chief Taiwo Adeoluwa, provided insights into the practical benefits and challenges of implementing digital mass employment solutions at the state and local council levels.
Drawing from his experience in government, Adeoluwa highlighted the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in driving sustainable economic growth and job creation.
Group Managing Director of Sinbol Group, Dr. BoladeDoranijo, discussed strategies for creatively funding mass unemployment initiatives in challenging economic times.
Doranijo highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships and innovative financing mechanisms in addressing unemployment and fostering entrepreneurship.
Founder of First Assembly, Pastor Stephen Akoni, explored the opportunities and challenges of engaging idle hands in Nigeria from an NGO perspective.
Former Vice President of the African Development Bank, Cecilia Akintomide, discussed financing the future and international support for digital skills empowerment in Nigeria.
The General Manager of eProcess Nigeria & Head of Ecobank, Software Centre, FolorunshoOrimoloye, delivered a compelling presentation titled mass self-employment through digital entrepreneurship as solution to mass unemployment in Nigeria.
In commemoration of Banwo’s 60th birthday celebration, Banwo chose to empower Nigerian youths with a special empowerment programme, where free laptops were distributed to 60 outstanding students from the previously organised 5-day Bootcamp.
As part of the comprehensive Fish For Life programme, over 200 beneficiaries will receive: business Software worth $997; a paid internship spanning nine months, with monthly stipends; a 90-day intensive digital business certificate course
Others are live weekly coaching for 90 days, offering personalised guidance to navigate the digital landscape and year-long mentoring.
