Tinubu, Google move to create one million jobs in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu has expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to supporting global tech giant Google Incorporated in its endeavor to create one million digital jobs in the country.

The assurance was given during a courtesy visit to the President by Google Global Vice President, Mr. Richard Gingras, as disclosed by Dele Alake, the Special Adviser to the President on Special Duties, Communications, and Strategy.

During the meeting on Friday, President Tinubu highlighted the eagerness of Nigeria’s youth to learn and excel in the age of Artificial Intelligence. He emphasized that Google’s capabilities and tools could play a pivotal role in equipping the young generation with the necessary skills for success. The President expressed his delight at Google’s willingness to partner with Nigeria, acknowledging the company’s positive response to the call for digital innovation and youth empowerment.

“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,” President Tinubu assured the visiting Google executive.

Mr. Richard Gingras, in his address to the President, spoke about the West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference, which brought him to Nigeria. He praised the creativity and talent exhibited by the country’s young people, who are embracing technology and digital tools to expand access to information and promote democracy.

Stressing Google’s interest in Nigeria, Mr. Gingras affirmed the organization’s readiness to support the Federal Government. He also underscored Google’s commitment to ensuring the security of Nigeria’s digital space in the face of disinformation and fake news. The Vice President of Google expressed the company’s intent to continue its partnership with the Nigerian government.

President Tinubu further reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to defending free speech, freedom of the press, and democracy, recognizing the importance of a free society in the pursuit of progress.