AWS expands commitment to support Nigeria’s tech drive in collaboration with FG

In a pivotal stride towards Nigeria’s technological advancement, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has made a significant leap in fortifying its presence and commitment to the country’s digital economy.

Recently, its Vice President of Global Services, Uwem Ukpong, led a media roundtable in Lagos that emphasised this strategic move and highlighted the company’s critical role in integrating and advancing Nigeria’s digital infrastructure.

At the core of this involvement was a momentous meeting between Uwem Ukpong and Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima. The groundbreaking engagement laid the groundwork for a collaborative effort aimed at propelling Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Vice President Shettima’s insights reaffirmed the government’s strong dedication to bolstering the nation’s economy and embracing innovative investment opportunities in technology.

Expressing gratitude for the warm reception by the Nigerian government, Ukpong highlighted the meeting’s significance in charting a path forward. “It was a privilege to meet His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima GCON,” said Ukpong.

“The Vice President shared key insights, reiterating the government’s commitment to strengthening the economy. I look forward to working closely with the Nigerian government to fulfil its promise of a hopeful future.“

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Investing in Nigeria’s technological workforce

AWS’s commitment to Nigeria transcends technological infrastructure, extending to robust human capital development initiatives. Recognising the pivotal role of skills in the digital era, the cloud computing service has made substantial progress in training and upskilling the Nigerian workforce.

Programs like AWS Academy, AWS re/Start, and AWS Educate have equipped over 50,000 Nigerians with cloud technology skills since 2017, vital for thriving in a swiftly evolving digital economy.

A Telecom Advisory Services study sponsored by the company has revealed the profound economic impact of cloud adoption in Nigeria. The study highlighted a noteworthy contribution of N82.9 billion to Nigeria’s GDP in 2021, underscoring the transformative influence of cloud computing beyond direct users, permeating across the broader economy.

AWS’s endeavours in Nigeria, notably establishing the country’s first cloud-front edge location and launching Amazon Q, signify a deliberate shift towards a cloud-first future. These initiatives underscore its commitment to shaping Nigeria’s technological landscape, designed not just for the present but strategically engineered to mould the nation’s future.

AWS’s role in Nigeria’s digital drive

As Nigeria pursues its digital transformation, AWS has emerged as a crucial catalyst for change. Through innovation, partnerships, and a steadfast commitment to skill development, the company is helping to steer Nigeria towards a future powered by the cloud.

This transformation, fueled by cloud computing, promises heightened efficiency, innovation, and economic growth, encapsulating the immense potential of digital technology. Highlighted below are some of the milestones recorded in the country.

Training and Certification: AWS has trained over 50,000 individuals in Nigeria on cloud skills since 2017, partnering with organisations in multiple cities and states across the country.

AWS Educate & Academy: Partnered institutions like the University of Benin, University of Jos, and Igbinedion University offer cloud computing curricula and training to prepare students for industry-recognized certifications and cloud careers.

Stanbic IBTC’s Digital Skills Empowerment Program (DiSEP): The program, in partnership with AWS, has trained over 200 participants in cloud computing, culminating in over 50 individuals earning their AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification.

DiSEP graduates have seen improved job prospects, such as Oluwabunmi Olowoyeye securing a technical support engineer role and Tochukwu Nwachukwu obtaining a job in which he applied AWS services to develop a cost-efficient architecture.

“DiSEP has boosted my confidence as a cloud engineer and equipped me with proper training to seek global career opportunities,” says Olowoyeye. “The knowledge that I gained helped me during the application and interview process for my current role. I came in as a certified professional with strong cloud knowledge.”