By Our Reporters
The Federal Government has taken a significant step towards addressing Nigeria’s growing digital skills gap with the launch of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) Certificate Licensing Programme.
The launch held on March 4th, 2025, at DBI’s Lagos campus, is designed to equip individuals and organizations with the skills and certifications needed to thrive in the digital economy.
President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of DBI, David Daser, at the 3vrbt stressed the importance of the initiative. “This programme marks a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s drive to equip its citizens with the necessary digital skills to succeed in the modern economy. The programme will not only offer high-quality training but also open new doors for collaboration and growth within the technology sector. We are poised to create pathways for growth, empower individuals, and position Nigeria as a leader in the global digital space.
“DBI, owned by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has long been at the forefront of ICT education in Nigeria. The institute is licensed by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU) and maintains partnerships with some of the world’s leading tech organizations, including Cisco, Microsoft, and Huawei. These affiliations enable DBI to deliver top-tier ICT training and certifications that are globally recognized.
“Our partnerships allow us to provide internationally acknowledged certifications, ensuring that the skills acquired here meet global standards.
“Nigeria is currently facing a significant digital skills gap, particularly among its youth. According to a UNICEF report, only 7 of Nigerians aged 15-24 have marketable ICT skills, leaving a vast majority underprepared for the demands of the digital economy. A 2020 report by Palladium Group also revealed that over 50% of Nigerian youth are either underemployed or unemployed due to a disconnect between their education and the skills needed in the job market.” Daser said.
He went further to note the importance of addressing skills gab through the DBI Certificate Licensing Programme. “The gap between the skills our youth possess and what is required by the job market must be closed. This programme is designed to provide access to industry-recognized training that will boost employability and help fill the growing gap in the ICT sector.”
The programme, officially known as the Global Certification and Training Partnership Programme (GTP/GCP), was developed through extensive collaboration with industry experts, academia, and government bodies. Daser shared that the initiative would see DBI license its training programmes to qualified institutions and trainers across Nigeria, enabling them to deliver DBI’s curriculum to learners nationwide.
“This is an important step in democratizing access to ICT education, particularly in underserved regions. We are not just bringing training to Lagos but to every corner of Nigeria,” he explained.
Daser also highlighted that the DBI Certificate Licensing Programme is aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, which prioritizes economic growth, youth development, and job creation. “This initiative supports President Tinubu’s vision of preparing Nigeria’s youth for the high-demand jobs in the technology sector, enhancing their employability and driving economic growth.
“This is not just about providing training but also about contributing to the broader national goals of job creation and economic diversification.”
The programme further aligns with the strategic objectives of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, particularly its 2023-2027 plan to strengthen Nigeria’s knowledge economy and digital infrastructure. “Through this initiative, DBI is contributing to Nigeria’s ambition to establish a skilled workforce capable of competing on the global stage,” said Daser.
“We are setting a foundation for long-term growth and innovation in Nigeria’s ICT sector.”
During the launch, Daser urged stakeholders across all sectors to collaborate and contribute to the success of the programme. “I call on educational institutions, trainers, and private sector organizations to join us in shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital landscape. Together, we can ensure that our youth are prepared for the opportunities of the digital economy,” he said.
He also encouraged the media to spread the word about the programme, which he believes has the potential to make a lasting impact on Nigeria’s economy and workforce.
The DBI Certificate Licensing Programme has received strong backing from key government figures, including Dr. Bosun Tijani, the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, and Dr. Aliyu Maida, the Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission.
Both have expressed their support for the initiative, recognizing the importance of enhancing Nigeria’s ICT capabilities to drive economic growth.
“This programme is a step in the right direction for Nigeria. It will ensure that our youth are not left behind in the digital age,” Dr. Tijani said.
With the launch of the DBI Certificate Licensing Programme, Nigeria is poised to make a bold leap toward bridging its digital skills gap and preparing its workforce for the future. The programme promises to equip individuals with globally recognized certifications and the skills needed to excel in the ICT sector.
“This initiative is not just about training; it is about creating opportunities, fostering innovation, and building a stronger, more competitive Nigeria. By empowering individuals with the necessary digital skills, the DBI Certificate Licensing Programme aims to play a key role in job creation, innovation, and economic development across Nigeria. The launch marks a significant step toward transforming Nigeria into a global leader in ICT, positioning the country to meet the demands of the ever-evolving digital economy.” The Minister added.
Earlier, Dr. Niran Oyekale, Chairman of Commit Technology and Consult Ltd, highlighted the growing global skills gap and called for urgent action in Nigeria to address the issue. Speaking on the theme “Empowering Talent, Certifying Excellence, Transforming Industries.
He gave more insight into the world’s rapidly evolving job market and the critical need for Nigeria to position itself as a global leader in digital skills training.
While raising several thought-provoking questions about the future of the global economy, among others, he asked, “What if I told you that in just a few years, the global economy could be short of 85 million skilled workers, an opportunity worth $8.5 trillion?”, stressing that Nigeria’s vast, youthful population could play a key role in filling this gap.
However, he warned that the country must act quickly to ensure its young people are equipped with the right skills for the future.
He also pointed out that the jobs of the future are increasingly demanding skills over traditional degrees, adding “Digital literacy is the minimum requirement for employment in today’s digital economy, yet no institution of higher education in Nigeria is graduating future leaders with the essential skills.”
