Lauretta Fagbohun
Abeokuta
The Towulade of Owu Akinale, Oba Oluseyi Adediran, has applauded the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr Bosun Tijani, for the ongoing establishment of an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) hub at DS Adegbenro ICT Polytechnic, Itori, Ogun State.
The monarch described the project as a significant contribution to youth development, noting that it would provide young people with opportunities to acquire relevant digital skills, particularly in computer technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Oba Adediran, who spoke over the weekend, called on the minister to replicate similar technology-driven initiatives across other parts of the South-West, stressing the need for sustained investment in digital education to prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the global technology industry.
He said the ongoing project at the institution demonstrated the importance of equipping the younger generation with practical technological knowledge and skills needed to remain competitive in an increasingly digital world.
The traditional ruler also revealed that Tijani had indicated an intention to establish an AI-focused industry in Yewa North Local Government Area of Ogun State, where young people would be trained and exposed to practical applications of Artificial Intelligence.
According to him, the proposed establishment would expand access to technological training, strengthen the state’s digital economy and create opportunities for youths to develop skills relevant to the changing employment landscape.
While encouraging the minister to sustain his interventions, Oba Adediran urged him to extend more technology and youth-focused projects to Ogun State and other parts of the South-West before the completion of his tenure at the federal level.
The monarch further expressed confidence that Tijani could attract the support of Ogun youths for a future governorship ambition, describing him as a public figure whose contributions to technological development had attracted attention among young people in the state.
“He is a rising star whom Ogun youths will embrace at the appropriate time after his national responsibilities. I believe that, given his contributions and capacity, it will be difficult for him to reject the call of the youths to serve Ogun State as governor when the time comes,” he said.
Oba Adediran maintained that continuous investment in digital infrastructure, technology education and innovation was crucial to unlocking the potential of young people, stimulating economic activities and positioning Ogun State for greater participation in the global digital economy.
