AWS expands commitment to support Nigeria’s tech drive in collaboration with FG
In a significant stride toward advancing Nigeria’s technology landscape, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has strengthened its commitment to the country’s digital economy. Uwem Ukpong, AWS’s Vice President of Global Services, underscored this strategic move during a media roundtable in Lagos. The meeting with Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, marked a pivotal moment, laying the foundation for a collaborative effort to propel Nigeria’s digital transformation. Vice President Shettima reaffirmed the government’s dedication to boosting the nation’s economy and embracing innovative technology investments..
This collaborative effort signifies a pivotal partnership between AWS and Nigeria, aiming to enhance the nation’s digital infrastructure. Uwem Ukpong’s leadership and insightful engagement with Vice President Shettima highlight a shared vision for technological advancement and economic growth.
The media roundtable in Lagos served as a platform to underscore AWS’s crucial role in integrating and advancing Nigeria’s digital landscape. The commitment expressed during this event reflects the company’s dedication to fostering innovation, supporting local economies, and contributing to Nigeria’s position in the global digital arena.
As both parties embark on this transformative journey, the synergy between AWS and the Nigerian government is poised to drive initiatives that will not only propel digital transformation but also create new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike. This strategic collaboration underscores the importance of public-private partnerships in shaping the future of technology and economic development.
Ukpong expressed appreciation for the warm welcome extended by the Nigerian government, emphasizing the importance of the meeting in shaping the way forward. Ukpong stated, “Meeting His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Kashim Shettima GCON, was a privilege.”
During the meeting, the Vice President shared valuable insights, reaffirming the government’s dedication to enhancing the economy. Ukpong expressed eagerness to collaborate closely with the Nigerian government, aiming to contribute to the realization of its commitment to a promising future.
Nurturing Nigeria’s Tech Talent Pool
Beyond bolstering technological infrastructure, AWS goes the extra mile in Nigeria by championing comprehensive human capital development initiatives. Acknowledging the crucial importance of skills in the digital age, this cloud computing service has made significant strides in training and upskilling the Nigerian workforce.
Empowering Over 50,000 Nigerians in Cloud Technology
Since 2017, transformative programs like AWS Academy, AWS re/Start, and AWS Educate have equipped more than 50,000 Nigerians with essential cloud technology skills, essential for thriving in today’s rapidly evolving digital economy.
A Telecom Advisory Services-sponsored study by AWS has unveiled the substantial economic impact of cloud adoption in Nigeria. The study reveals a significant contribution of N82.9 billion to Nigeria’s GDP in 2021, emphasizing the profound influence of cloud computing beyond direct users, permeating across the broader economy.
AWS’s initiatives in Nigeria, including the establishment of the country’s first cloud-front edge location and the launch of Amazon Q, signify a deliberate shift towards a cloud-first future. These strategic moves underscore AWS’s commitment to shaping Nigeria’s technological landscape, not only for the present but with a strategic vision to mold the nation’s future.
AWS’s Pivotal Role in Nigeria’s Digital Transformation
As Nigeria advances its digital transformation journey, AWS stands out as a crucial catalyst for change. Through innovation, strategic partnerships, and unwavering commitment to skill development, the company is actively steering Nigeria towards a future powered by the cloud.
This transformation, driven by cloud computing, promises heightened efficiency, innovation, and economic growth, showcasing the vast potential of digital technology. Here are some noteworthy milestones in the country’s journey towards a digitally empowered future.
One notable milestone in AWS’s role in Nigeria’s digital drive is the establishment of the country’s first cloud-front edge location. This strategic move enhances the delivery of cloud services, ensuring faster and more reliable access for users across the nation. Additionally, the launch of Amazon Q further reinforces AWS’s commitment to cutting-edge technology, offering new possibilities for businesses and developers in Nigeria.
AWS’s contributions extend beyond infrastructure and technology adoption. The company’s dedication to skill development is evident in initiatives like AWS Academy, AWS re/Start, and AWS Educate, collectively empowering a significant number of Nigerians with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of cloud technology.
The economic impact study sponsored by AWS underscores the far-reaching effects of cloud adoption on Nigeria’s GDP. The substantial contribution of N82.9 billion in 2021 emphasizes how cloud computing serves as a transformative force, positively influencing not only the tech sector but the broader economy as well.
As Nigeria continues its digital transformation journey, AWS remains at the forefront, driving innovation and fostering partnerships that are instrumental in shaping the nation’s technological landscape. The company’s commitment is not just about the present; it’s a strategic effort to mold a future where Nigeria thrives in the digital age.
**AWS’s Impact on Cloud Skills in Nigeria**
*Training and Certification:* AWS has empowered over 50,000 individuals in Nigeria with cloud skills since 2017 through collaborations with organizations in various cities and states across the country.
*AWS Educate & Academy:* Partnering with institutions like the University of Benin, University of Jos, and Igbinedion University, AWS provides cloud computing curricula and training, preparing students for industry-recognized certifications and promising careers in the cloud.
*Stanbic IBTC’s Digital Skills Empowerment Program (DiSEP):* In collaboration with AWS, this program has successfully trained over 200 participants in cloud computing. More than 50 individuals have earned their AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification, leading to improved job prospects.
Graduates, such as Oluwabunmi Olowoyeye who secured a technical support engineer role, and Tochukwu Nwachukwu who obtained a job applying for AWS services for a cost-efficient architecture, attest to the program’s impact. Olowoyeye emphasizes, “DiSEP has boosted my confidence as a cloud engineer and equipped me with proper training to seek global career opportunities. The knowledge gained was instrumental in securing my current role, allowing me to enter as a certified professional with robust cloud knowledge.”
The success stories from the DiSEP program underscore the transformative impact of AWS’s collaboration in Nigeria’s digital skills landscape. Participants, like Oluwabunmi Olowoyeye, not only find meaningful employment but also attribute their success to the confidence and expertise gained through the program.
As AWS continues to foster partnerships with institutions such as the University of Benin, the University of Jos, and Igbinedion University, it reinforces a commitment to preparing the next generation for the dynamic world of cloud technology. By offering industry-recognized certifications and hands-on training, AWS ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate the evolving demands of the digital workforce.
The collaboration with Stanbic IBTC’s DiSEP program further demonstrates AWS’s dedication to real-world impact. Over 200 participants have been empowered to thrive in cloud computing, with tangible results in the form of AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certifications. These certifications open doors to diverse opportunities, as seen in the success stories of graduates like Tochukwu Nwachukwu, who applied AWS services to create cost-efficient architectures in their professional roles.
As AWS continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s digital landscape, the focus on training and certification programs becomes not just a testament to skill development but a key driver in propelling individuals towards fulfilling and globally competitive careers in the cloud industry.
