The Ijesha Global Alliance for Development (IGAD), a coalition of Ijeshas based in North America, Europe and in the Nigeria homeland, has commissioned the Ijesha Digital Hub and inducted its first cohort of 107 trainees in Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity and UI/UX Design.
The hub, which is situated at Olashore International School in Iloko-Ijesha, took the step to transform Ijeshaland as the digital hub of excellence in the country.
On January 4, 107 of the best of the best Ijesha youths gathered at the hub to begin their training as skilled workforce and techno-entrepreneurs in the emerging global digital economy.
The inauguration was graced by prominent speakers and community leaders, including two royal fathers, Kabiyesi Owaloko, and the Oniwoye of Iwoye-Ijesha, Asiwaju Yinka Fasuyi, the Asiwaju of Ijesaland, Supo Shadiya, President, Ijesa Development Council (IDC) and Dr. Adewale Obadare, Chief Visionary Officer and founder of Digital Encode, Barrister Dupe Ajayi-Gbadebo, IDC Vice President, among others, who shared their insights on the indispensability of technology in shaping the future.
Vice President, IGAD, Dr. Adewale Alonge, who is one the visionaries behind IGAD, in his welcome address, noted that Nigeria, with the largest youth population in the world, with a median age of 18.1 years, faces either a demographic ticking time-bomb or a demographic economic windfall depending on the choice the country makes as it relates to investment in youth human capital development. He noted that IGAD’s Ijesha Digital Hub was an investment in Ijesha youth human capital as the driver of the Ijesha development agenda.
The event also highlighted the importance of facilitating entrepreneurial drive and soft skills among the youth. Dr. Wale Alonge emphasised: “We are not just training for technical proficiency; we are exemplifying entrepreneurship and soft skills.
The hub will be a stimulator for innovation, with a focus on real-world applications. Chairman of IGAD, Prince Abimbola Olashore, conveyed his gratitude for the collaborative efforts that led to the hub’s establishment: “Today’s ceremony is just the beginning. I want to thank all IGAD members and the Executive Board for their contributions. The hub is set to transform our workforce, fostering economic growth and sustainability.”
The hub was built in pursuit of encouraging entrepreneurship, where individuals are investing their time, talent, and resources, collaborating with sponsors, and ensuring a smooth and impactful journey for the youth. This is about going beyond limits and making technology accessible globally.
Founder of Robotics and Artificial Intelligence Nigeria (RAIN), Dr. Ayoola, who delivered the keynote speech on Mindset Shift for Digital Success, said: “The mindset shift is critical. Success is not just about acquiring skills but defining success in your terms. It’s about solving problems and creating opportunities.”
He emphasised the need for a positive mindset, stating, “If we do not achieve a mind shift, we will struggle amid plenty. We have the human resources, but without the right mindset, we may not fully utilise the potential within us. The youth must define success on their terms and focus on integrity, not just jobs.”
The keynote speaker also highlighted the challenges and solutions ahead: “We are facing challenges such as security issues, economic struggles, and brain drain. The solutions lie in technology – from artificial intelligence to blockchain. The youth need to leverage these technologies to create solutions for the challenges our nation faces.”
On his part, the Chief Visionary Officer, Digital Encode, Limited, and one of Africa’s most cybersecurity experts, Dr. Peter Adewale Obadare, noted the importance of skills in cybersecurity and technology, dispelling conventional notions of success portrayed by the media. Through real-world examples, he stressed that technology offers diverse paths to success beyond traditional fields.
“The only way to bridge the gap of poverty is through technology. The power of technology, coupled with the right skills, can elevate the youth from zero to unimaginable heights,” affirmed Dr. Obadare. To succeed in the digital age, Dr. Obadare presented a 3D formula – Determination, Dedication, and Discipline.
