By Nana Theresa Timothy
DBI-EU Partnership to Advance Digital Transformation and Capacity Building
To enhance international collaboration in digital transformation, capacity building, and technology transfer, the President/CEO of the Digital Bridge Institute (DBI), Daser David, along with key officials, have met with representatives of the European Union (EU) delegation to Nigeria and ECOWAS. The visit aimed to strengthen partnerships that will drive Nigeria’s digital economy forward.
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EU Pledges Support for Nigeria’s Digital Development
During the meeting, DBI officials were welcomed by Massimo De Luca, Head of Cooperation, Inga Stefanowicz, Head of Section for Green and Digital Economy, and Frank Okafor, Project Manager in the Economic Cooperation and Energy Section. Massimo De Luca emphasized the EU’s commitment to fostering partnerships that support Nigeria’s digital transformation and human capital development. Both parties explored opportunities to collaborate on a number of initiatives. They include promoting digital literacy, technological advancements, and youth empowerment through skills training.
DBI’s Focus on Capacity Building and Digital Literacy
David highlighted DBI’s ongoing efforts in capacity building, particularly through the Advanced Digital Empowerment Programme for Tertiary Institutions (ADEPTI). Funded by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC), ADEPTI has trained over 120,000 staff members across tertiary institutions in Nigeria. He also noted DBI’s multi-campus presence across the country, offering cutting-edge training in telecommunications, ICT, and emerging technologies. However, he acknowledged that the Enugu and Asaba campuses are not yet fully operational.
Collaborating with TeleSoftas to Foster Innovation and Job Creation
As part of partnership building, the DBI team also met with TeleSoftas, an Abuja-based digital product engineering and consulting services company. The two organisations discussed potential collaborations to create sustainable jobs and bridge the gap between global opportunities and local talent. TeleSoftas, through its GetGlobal initiative, serves as a career accelerator for tech talent in Nigeria. It focuses on skill development and technology adoption.
“We are excited about the opportunities this visit will unlock for driving technology adoption, skill development, and economic growth across the nation,” TeleSoftas said in a corporate post.
Driving Nigeria’s Digital Agenda
David reiterated DBI’s commitment to aligning with the Ministry of Communications and Digital Economy, led by Dr. Bosun Tijani, in advancing Nigeria’s digital agenda. He also praised DBI’s role in supporting Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda under President Bola Tinubu, stating that the institute is positioned to create a more inclusive digital landscape, enhance connectivity, and equip Nigerians with the necessary skills to compete globally.
The partnership between DBI and the EU delegation marks a significant step in fostering digital growth, innovation, and capacity building across Nigeria.
- COVER PHOTO: DBI separate visits to EU Delegation; and TeleSoftas