Thirty young Nigerians have commenced a three-month cloud computing training programme under the Amazon Web Services (AWS) re/Start initiative at the Ilorin Innovation Hub, aimed at equipping unemployed and underemployed youths with globally competitive digital skills.

The programme, launched through a partnership between the Kwara State Government, AWS and IHS Nigeria, will provide participants with 12 weeks of intensive training in cloud computing, professional development and career readiness for entry-level roles in the global technology industry.

Speaking at the launch, IHS Nigeria’s Specialist, Global IT Systems Security and Cloud Infrastructure Administration, Habeeb Salawu, said the initiative demonstrates the company’s commitment to developing Nigeria’s digital economy through investment in human capital.

“This initiative represents another important milestone in our journey to drive innovation and equip young Nigerians with the digital skills needed to thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world,” Salawu said.

He noted that IHS Nigeria manages about 16,000 telecommunications towers and over 15,000 kilometres of fibre infrastructure across the country, providing the backbone for voice, broadband and data services.

Salawu cited research showing a global shortage of qualified cloud professionals, saying the AWS re/Start programme was designed to bridge the skills gap by preparing participants for careers in cloud technology.

Also speaking, programme facilitator, Reungeler Lucas, said the initiative has helped connect more than 30,000 learners worldwide with employment opportunities in cloud computing and related fields.

Director of Programmes at the Ilorin Innovation Hub, Zumah Yahaya, described the training as a major step towards making world-class digital education accessible in Kwara State.

“For too long, world-class cloud computing expertise was a luxury exclusive to Lagos or Silicon Valley. Today, we are bringing the global digital economy home to the heart of Kwara State,” she said.

One of the participants, Fatima Bello, a student of the University of Ilorin, said she hopes to become a certified AWS cloud practitioner and use the knowledge gained to promote cloud technology awareness, particularly among women and young people in underserved communities.