Odidiomo Empowers Youths, Unveils Plan to Make Ibadan Tech Hub
By Adewale Owoade.
A member of the House of Representatives, Dhikrullahi Adedeji Olajide, Odidiomo, has intensified his political visibility in Oyo State, leveraging a large-scale youth empowerment initiative to reinforce his governorship ambition ahead of 2027.
No fewer than 200 youths from Ibadan South-West/North-West Federal Constituency and other parts of the state benefitted from a 10-day digital skills and empowerment programme facilitated by the lawmaker in collaboration with the National Information Technology Development Agency, NITDA.
The participants, largely unemployed, received training in digital marketing, cybersecurity fundamentals, remote work, and tech-driven entrepreneurship.
Each beneficiary was also supported with a laptop and startup funding to kick-start digital ventures.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Olajide—who chairs the House Committee on Digital, ICT and Cybersecurity—framed the intervention as both an economic and strategic response to youth unemployment and the widening digital gap.
He said the initiative aligns with his broader vision of transforming Oyo into a technology-driven economy, noting that Ibadan has the potential to emerge as a leading innovation hub in the South-West.
Olajide also acknowledged the role of Governor Seyi Makinde in laying what he described as a “solid foundation” in infrastructure, education, and governance, pledging to consolidate on those gains if elected.
According to him, the programme is part of a sustained effort that has seen over 2,400 youths trained across the state, alongside the establishment of digital hubs and provision of scholarships.
“This is not just the end of a training programme but the beginning of economic independence for these young people,” he said. “The tools provided are meant to drive innovation, enterprise and productivity.”
Beyond empowerment, the lawmaker used the platform to advance his policy direction, highlighting plans for broadband expansion, public Wi-Fi in commercial centres, and the establishment of tech and innovation hubs across the state.
He also disclosed that a Digital Economy and E-Governance Bill he sponsored at the National Assembly is nearing public hearing, calling on stakeholders to contribute to shaping Nigeria’s digital policy framework.
Reaffirming his governorship ambition, Olajide said his aspiration is driven by a commitment to deepen ongoing reforms and unlock new economic opportunities through technology and innovation.
“We will not slow down progress. We will scale it up—particularly by investing in digital infrastructure and skills that create jobs and improve livelihoods,” he stated.
A representative of NITDA, Eedris Faruk, said the training exposed participants to practical digital tools, including artificial intelligence applications and online business development.
Some beneficiaries who spoke at the event commended the initiative, describing it as timely and impactful, while pledging support for the lawmaker’s gubernatorial bid.