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Nigeria Launches iSTEP Initiative to Drive Youth Innovation and Economic Growth

The Nigerian government has launched iSTEP, a technology-driven program to train 10,000 youth innovators, create 5,000 jobs, and establish innovation hubs nationwide.
istep

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has launched iSTEP, a transformative initiative designed to promote youth innovation, stimulate economic growth, and position Nigeria as a global technology hub.

The program was unveiled on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Humanity Advancement Innovation Network (HAIN) and the Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology.

According to Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, the iSTEP Program aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes economic diversification, job creation, and inclusive development.

Over the next two years, the program aims to train and certify 10,000 youth innovators across 200 local government areas, equipping them with essential skills in entrepreneurship and technology-driven solutions. In addition to training, iSTEP plans to establish 2,500 youth-led innovative enterprises, supporting them through mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities to boost economic growth.

The initiative also includes the development of six Innovation Academies and three iSTECH City Hubs, which will serve as centers of excellence for technology collaboration, research, and development. These hubs will provide a platform for young innovators to create solutions that will drive economic competitiveness and technological advancement.

As part of its broader objectives, the program is expected to generate 5,000 new jobs, contributing to Nigeria’s efforts to tackle unemployment and enhance economic stability. The government is also prioritizing food security, agricultural innovation, energy, and industrial development through iSTEP, leveraging technology to address pressing national challenges.

Minister Nnaji commended HAIN for its commitment to the initiative, stating that their collaboration will significantly enhance Nigeria’s position as a global innovation hub. With iSTEP, the Nigerian government reaffirms its dedication to youth empowerment, technological advancement, and sustainable economic growth in an increasingly digital world.

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