Technology equipment maker, Nokia has inked a deal with the Federal Government of Nigeria to build a crop of skilled workforce in areas of technology including 5G.
Under the pact, Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria, the local unit of the technology giant will rain over 200 young Nigerians in 4G/5G radio and transmission technologies, according to Nigeria’s Ministry of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy.
Dr. Bosun Tijani, Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, this week led the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Nokia Solutions and Networks Nigeria this week.
The collaboration to train over 200 young Nigerians in 4G/5G radio and transmission technologies, the government said, represents a significant step towards building a skilled workforce for Nigeria’s digital future.
Dr. Aminu Maida, Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), highlighted that the collaborative effort between Nigeria and Nokia entails the establishment of a comprehensive training programme, hosted at the Nigerian Communications Commission’s Digital Parks.
The initiative will provide hands-on training and theoretical knowledge in 4G/5G radio technology, leveraging Nokia’s infrastructure and expertise. Central to the partnership is Nokia Nigeria’s commitment to setting up a fully functional 5G/4G test lab, providing students with invaluable practical experience in a simulated telecommunications environment, Maida said.
“This collaboration,” according to the NCC EVC, “advances our vision to enhance the capacity and skills-set of Nigerians, by equipping them with contemporary skills and knowledge needed to adapt to the rapidly evolving telecommunications industry.”
In addition to technical training, Nokia Nigeria will launch an Entrepreneur Learning Programme as part of the collaboration. Under this, the programme will offer high-quality vocational training to 200 Nigerian students selected from across the country’s six geopolitical zones, fostering entrepreneurship and promoting digital literacy in line with the Ministry’s objectives.
The partnership between Nigeria and Nokia represents a pivotal step towards realising Nigeria’s digital potential and fostering economic growth through technology and innovation, according to NCC.