Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, has expressed the Federal Government’s readiness to assist Google Incorporated in generating one million digital jobs in Nigeria. The President made this commitment during a meeting with Google’s Global Vice President, Mr. Richard Gingras, at the State House in Abuja on Friday.
President Tinubu welcomed Google’s partnership in response to the government’s call for digital innovation and support for the country’s youth. He assured Google of the government’s full support in fulfilling its corporate responsibility to benefit society. Despite acknowledging the challenges in implementing economic reforms, President Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s talented and motivated young population, particularly in the era of Artificial Intelligence, and stated that Google’s capabilities and tools would be instrumental in their success.
Regarding Google’s promotion of free speech, freedom of the press, and democracy through its platforms, President Tinubu stressed the importance of defending these fundamental rights in the public interest.
Mr. Richard Gingras, in his address to President Tinubu, revealed that he was in Nigeria for the West Africa Journalism Innovation Conference. He praised the creativity and talent of young Nigerians who embrace technology to expand access to information and foster democracy. Google expressed its deep interest in Nigeria and its commitment to support the Federal Government. The tech giant highlighted its capabilities in Artificial Intelligence and other digital innovations that empower young entrepreneurs. Google’s subsea cable, named Equiano after the Nigerian slave abolitionist, landed in Nigeria in April 2022, significantly impacting future internet connectivity demands.
Gingras also assured the President that Google would assist in securing Nigeria against disinformation and fake news. He emphasized the organization’s desire to continue its partnership with the Nigerian government and its support for programs to enhance the country’s digital economy.
In conclusion, the meeting between President Tinubu and Google’s Global Vice President focused on Google’s commitment to help create one million digital jobs in Nigeria, its support for the country’s digital economy, and its dedication to promoting free speech and press freedom while ensuring cybersecurity.