Digital Park: NCC Operationally Leases Facility to Enugu, Eyes AI-Driven Growth | ClipTV Online

In an effort to expand digital skills among Nigerians, the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has operationally leased its Digital Industrial Park and Learning Centre to the Enugu State Government.

The agreement was signed at the Enugu State Government House on Tuesday. Under the agreement, the state government committed to the effective utilization of the Digital Park by transforming the learning centre into the Enugu Talent City and Artificial Intelligence (AI) Institute, in line with Governor Peter Mbah’s digital economy agenda.

The lease was formalized through a 15-year partnership agreement. NCC Executive Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (EVC/CEO), Dr. Aminu Maida, alongside other members of the management team, was present at the signing ceremony.

The NCC Digital Industrial Park and Learning Centre serves as a hub for innovation, human capital development, and entrepreneurship. It is designed to enhance the digital skills of young people, support start-ups, create jobs, and position Nigerian youths to compete effectively in the global technology market.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Maida noted that the facility itself does not create innovation; rather, innovation is driven by people.

“Buildings alone do not create innovation. People do. Ideas do. Entrepreneurs do. Partnerships bring all these elements together,” he said.

He explained that the Enugu State Government is well-positioned to maximize the purpose for which the facility was established.

“We believe that, with these facilities activated by the Enugu State Government, young people will acquire 21st-century skills, entrepreneurs will transform ideas into viable businesses, and local enterprises will connect to opportunities beyond Enugu and across Nigeria,” he added.

Dr. Maida further stated that the partnership aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

He also reaffirmed the NCC’s commitment to advancing initiatives that expand digital opportunities across the country. According to him, the Commission is ready to replicate similar partnerships in any state or community willing to embrace the initiative, as part of its commitment to digital inclusion.

Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, on his part, commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his administration’s vision of building a $1 trillion economy. He noted that the partnership reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to inclusive governance.

Referring to global economic projections, the governor stated that artificial intelligence is expected to contribute about $20 trillion to the global economy by 2030. He emphasized that Enugu State is determined not to leave its youths behind in the AI revolution.

Mbah further stated that his administration is committed to showcasing Enugu’s brightest talents. Enabling young people to provide services remotely to the global economy while remaining in the state.

“It is not a space you want your young ones to be missing. We also believe that our talents, our brightest talents, should not be exported in person. We believe that they should export their talents outside the country from here, and that is why we see huge benefits in these assets in terms of job creation and opportunities for our young people,” he said.

The governor further assured that the state government would ensure the effective utilization of the Digital Park and fulfill the purpose for which it was erected.