Abuja: The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Udeh, announced that the newly inaugurated Abuja Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) BEST Centre will play a pivotal role in enhancing digital skills acquisition and capacity building.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Dr. Udeh made these remarks during the inauguration of the Business Entrepreneurship Skills and Technology (BEST) Centre in Abuja. The minister emphasized the centre’s importance as a private sector-driven hub for skills development and innovation, which will bolster digital skills acquisition and industry-relevant training across emerging fields. This initiative is expected to strengthen Nigeria’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem.
Dr. Udeh highlighted that the centre has already contributed to the development of rare skills, such as gemology, which has been incorporated into academic courses at the University of Abuja. He praised the facility as an exemplary model of private sector leadership, aligning with the government’s aim to connect education, research, and industry with the market.
The ministry has partnered with ACCI and plans to deepen this collaboration through structured engagements and targeted support. The centre is envisioned as a convergence point for government, innovators, researchers, policymakers, and industry players to advance national development through coordinated innovation efforts. Progress in science, technology, and innovation, according to Dr. Udeh, translates directly to national advancement, impacting homes, industries, and the economy at large.
The President of the ACCI, Chief Emeka Obegolu, described the BEST Centre as a realization of a vision to bridge business, entrepreneurship, skills development, and innovation. Obegolu stated that the centre is designed to provide practical, industry-driven programs for entrepreneurs, MSMEs, professionals, and youths, with a focus on digital skills and emerging technologies. He stressed that sustainable economic growth relies on continuous investment in human capacity, and the centre aims to reduce dependence on expatriate manpower.
Prof. Adesoji Adesugba, Chairman of the BEST Centre Council and ACCI First Deputy President, reported that over 4,000 individuals have been trained in the past five years through partnerships and specialized skills programs. The centre also operates an employment bureau to connect trained participants with job opportunities and sustainable enterprises.