By Gabriel Ameh
The growing push for youth-driven digital transformation in Kogi State received a major boost on Saturday as 40 young participants graduated from the Ajatek Kogi Youth in Tech (KYIT) 1.0 Igala Edition held at the Prince Abubakar Audu University Auditorium in Anyigba.
The eight-week intensive bootcamp, sponsored by the Igala Association USA and implemented by Ajatek Multisolutions, equipped participants drawn from nine local government areas in Kogi East with digital soft skills, Artificial Intelligence knowledge and practical Information Technology training.
The graduating fellows were also empowered with laptops and internet router devices to support their continued growth in the global digital ecosystem.Speaking at the event, the Atta Igala and President of the Kogi State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty Agabaidu Dr. Mathew Alaji Opaluwa Oguche Akpa II CFR, praised diaspora-led investments in technology and youth empowerment.
Represented by the Ejeh Dekina, His Royal Highness Dr. Usman Obaje, OON, the royal father urged Nigerian youths to embrace legitimate careers in Information Technology and innovation as pathways to national development and economic transformation.
He stressed the importance of equipping young people with relevant digital skills capable of positioning them as global change-makers in an increasingly technology-driven world.Chief Executive Officer of Ajatek Multisolutions, Mr. Anthony James Aliduh, described the initiative as a strategic intervention designed to redefine the future of Kogi youths through innovation, mentorship and technology-based opportunities.
According to him, plans are already underway to expand the Kogi Youth in Tech Collaborative Programme across the state in order to reach more young people.President of Igala Association USA, Teresa Edoja, congratulated the beneficiaries and urged them to become ambassadors of ethical technology and responsible Artificial Intelligence usage globally.I
n a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer of Igala Association USA, Dr. Raphael Agbali, the organisation described the programme as a collaborative effort involving diaspora professionals, corporate support from MTN and technical mentorship from accomplished Kogi indigenes in the global tech ecosystem.
The association noted that the initiative represents the beginning of broader efforts to position Kogi State as a major player in Nigeria’s digital and Artificial Intelligence future.
