By Philomina Attah
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 on Thursday during a courtesy visit to the Chinese Embassy in Abuja.
Nadabo said the proposed AMAC–China AI Training and Innovation Centre was part of the Council’s “AMAC 10K Youth AI Training and Empowerment Agenda”.
He explained that the initiative targeted the training of 10,000 youths in AI, machine learning, data analytics, software development, cybersecurity, robotics, and other emerging technologies.
“The future belongs to digitally skilled societies.
“Through strategic partnerships with global development partners such as the People’s Republic of China, we are determined to position AMAC as a hub for innovation while creating opportunities that will empower our youths, stimulate entrepreneurship, and strengthen the local economy,” Nadabo stated.
The Vice Chairman applauded China for its contributions to Nigeria’s development in infrastructure, renewable energy, smart city initiatives, education, transportation, and capacity building, noting that China’s development model remained an inspiration to developing nations.
Responding, 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 commended AMAC for its forward-looking initiatives.
Yingqi said the Embassy appreciated its cordial relationship with the Area Council over the years and assured that the proposals would be studied to identify practical areas of cooperation for the benefit of AMAC residents.
Also speaking, the Consultant on Development Partners and ICT to AMAC, Ms Mina Horsfall, said the Maikalangu-led administration was committed to leveraging innovation, digital transformation, and international partnerships to improve livelihoods.
She added that investment in emerging technologies and digital skills would create employment, reduce youth unemployment, and drive sustainable economic development.
Members of the delegation included 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.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi