Abuja: The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) has sought the partnership of the Chinese Embassy to set up an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Training and Innovation Centre for 10,000 youths with digital skills. The Vice Chairman of AMAC, Mr. Yusuf Nadabo, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the proposed AMAC-China AI Training and Innovation Centre is part of the Council’s ‘AMAC 10K Youth AI Training and Empowerment Agenda’. Nadabo explained that the initiative targets training 10,000 youths in AI, machine learning, data analytics, software development, cybersecurity, robotics, and other emerging technologies. He emphasized the importance of digital skills in shaping the future of societies, asserting that through strategic partnerships with global development partners like the People’s Republic of China, AMAC aims to become a hub for innovation. This initiative is expected to empower youths, stimulate entrepreneurship, and strengthen the local economy.
The Vice Chairman commended China for its contributions to Nigeria’s development in various sectors including infrastructure, renewable energy, smart city initiatives, education, transportation, and capacity building. He noted that China’s development model serves as an inspiration to developing nations.
In response, the Minister-Counsellor for Economic and Commercial Affairs at the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China, Mr. Wang Yingqi, welcomed the delegation and praised AMAC for its forward-thinking initiatives. Yingqi expressed appreciation for the longstanding cordial relationship with the Area Council and assured that the proposals would be reviewed to identify practical areas of cooperation for the benefit of AMAC residents.
Additionally, the Consultant on Development Partners and ICT to AMAC, Ms. Mina Horsfall, highlighted the Maikalangu-led administration’s commitment to leveraging innovation, digital transformation, and international partnerships to improve livelihoods. She stated that investing in emerging technologies and digital skills would create employment, reduce youth unemployment, and drive sustainable economic development.
The delegation included key figures such as the Chief of Staff to the Chairman, Mr. Emeka Orji; Special Adviser on Youth Empowerment, Mr. John Austin; Head of ICT, Mrs. Stella Edialle; and Protocol Officer to the Vice Chairman, Salim Shittu.