FG Launches I-DICE Programme to Create 2 Million Jobs on May 15

The Federal Government is set to launch a significant initiative aimed at reducing unemployment in Nigeria with the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprises (I-DICE) Programme, scheduled to commence on May 15. This initiative is expected to generate two million jobs in the digital and creative sectors.

Vice President Kashim Shettima announced this during the second Chronicle Roundtable in Abuja, which had the theme, “Tinubu Administration’s Economic and Social Agenda: How It Will Transform Nigeria.” The Vice President underscored the government’s commitment to addressing unemployment and boosting economic growth through various initiatives, including I-DICE and the Outsource to Nigeria initiative.

Shettima emphasized the administration’s goal of achieving an economic growth rate that outpaces population growth, with a significant reduction in inflation on the horizon. He acknowledged the need for patience and collective sacrifice from Nigerians as the country navigates this transitional period.

“Soon, Nigeria’s economy will experience significant growth once we’ve overcome these sacrifices. Positive changes will soon be evident across all economic indicators – inflation, per capita income, GDP numbers, poverty reduction, food security, and all aspects close to the hearts of our people,” he stated.

The Vice President also addressed the government’s controversial removal of fuel subsidies, describing it as a necessary step to bring stability to the economy. He revealed that President Bola Tinubu’s administration inherited an economy burdened by high debt servicing costs and a deficit-ridden budget, which made the subsidy removal an unavoidable decision.

“We had to get rid of the subsidy or the subsidy we get from the Nigerian nation. It was a bitter pill to swallow, but we had to do it. We look forward to the positive impact on the economy that will be brought by some of our new initiatives in the oil and gas sector, creative arts sector, the newly rejigged steel and solid minerals sectors, our housing sector, the blue economy, and the digital sectors, to mention but a few,” Shettima said.

The Vice President also highlighted recent interventions in the currency market by the Central Bank of Nigeria and the National Security Adviser, which have helped stabilize the Naira and mitigate the impact of currency manipulators.

Additionally, Shettima explained that the administration’s eight-point agenda encompasses various priorities, including job creation, economic growth, food security, poverty reduction, access to capital, anti-corruption measures, and inclusive development. These areas are aimed at ensuring a comprehensive approach to economic and social transformation.

During his opening remarks at the event, former Finance Minister Dr. Shamsudeen Usman called for alignment between President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the country’s long-term economic plans. He also urged the President to set an example by dismissing underperforming ministers, stressing that accountability should be a cornerstone of governance.