The Abuja Municipal Area Council (AMAC) and the State of Qatar have begun discussions on a possible partnership aimed at strengthening youth empowerment, digital skills development and employment opportunities in the Federal Capital Territory.
The discussions took place in Abuja when the Acting Chairman of AMAC, Hon. Yusuf Muhammad Nadabo, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to the Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Nigeria, Yusuf Bin Mohammed Al-Hail.
Speaking during the meeting, Nadabo said the council was seeking partnerships that would expand opportunities for young people through skills development and innovation.
He identified areas of potential collaboration to include Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning, Data Science, Cybersecurity, Digital Entrepreneurship and Start-up Development, noting that such initiatives could help prepare young people for emerging opportunities in the digital economy.
The Qatari Ambassador welcomed the initiative and expressed his country’s willingness to explore areas of mutual cooperation with AMAC.
Al-Hail also observed that although Nigeria is often portrayed negatively on some international platforms, the country possesses significant human and economic potential that could be harnessed through stronger partnerships.
Earlier, the Consultant on Development Partners and ICT to the AMAC chairman, Ambassador Mina Horsfall, said the proposed collaboration was designed to improve access to digital skills, encourage innovation and support employment opportunities for young people.
The delegation included the Head of the ICT Section, Mrs Stella Ediale, and the Special Adviser on Job Creation, Hon. Musa Yakubu.
If implemented, the partnership is expected to focus on capacity building and skills acquisition programmes that could enhance youth participation in the digital economy.
