The federal government has launched a Digital Bridge Institute (DBI) Certificate Licensing Programme to enhance workforce skills and address Nigeria’s widening digital skills gap.

Speaking at the unveiling yesterday on the Lagos campus, DBI President and CEO David Daser highlighted the initiative’s importance in establishing Nigeria as a frontrunner in digital transformation.

Daser said the programme aims to equip individuals and organisations with globally recognised ICT certifications, improving employability and driving economic growth in the digital economy.

“This programme is designed to provide access to high-quality, industry-recognized training that will empower individuals, close the skills gap, and strengthen Nigeria’s workforce,” he said.

He explained that DBI, a subsidiary of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), has been at the forefront of ICT education in Nigeria and is licensed by the International Telecommunications Union (ITU).

He also said the institute collaborates with global tech giants such as Cisco, Microsoft, and Huawei to ensure its training meets international standards.

Daser emphasised that the newly launched Global Certification and Training Partnership Programme (GTP/GCP) will enable DBI to license its training modules to qualified institutions and trainers nationwide.

He added that the initiative aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritises economic growth, youth development, and job creation.

“This initiative supports President Tinubu’s vision of preparing Nigeria’s youth for high-demand roles in the technology sector, enhancing their employability and driving economic progress,”

He called on stakeholders across sectors, including educational institutions, trainers, and private organisations, to collaborate in shaping the future of Nigeria’s digital workforce.

“I urge all stakeholders to join us in ensuring that our workforce is prepared for the opportunities of the digital economy.”

Chairman of Commit Technology and Consult Ltd, Dr. Niran Oyekale, also underscored the urgency of addressing Nigeria’s digital skills gap, warning that failure to act could leave the nation behind in the global knowledge economy.

Oyekale stressed the importance of positioning Nigeria as a leader in digital skills training.